Message Thread:
Expanding table
1/15/20
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
I need to make a dining table that expands in width rather than length. Has anyone done anything like this? Any info is appreciated.
1/15/20 #2: Expanding table ...
Theoretically, you would build it the same way, just split widthwise, instead of lengthwise. Same type of extension slide hardware, just sized for your application.
Practically however, depends on the size of the table, and how much seating they're trying to add. If they want to add one seat at each end of the table, you're going to need a leaf 24" wide x however long the table is. Handling and storing a 7' or 8' long x 2' wide leaf is not really practical for most people.
I've been asked to do this a couple of times, but after explaining the logistics of the leaves and the expense to add 2 seats, it was not deemed worthwhile.
1/16/20 #3: Expanding table ...
I would worry about those leaves staying flat over whatever length the table is. Even if made in mdf or ply, if not store properly, it will move. Plus, opening a table in that direction, would there be issues with it racking the glides? Id be leary to take a job on like that.
1/16/20 #4: Expanding table ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
The client wants a 3'x5' with a 12" leaf making 4'x5'. Theyre being "creative with a small space". A 1'X5' leaf should stay fairly flat no? What would be the best sliding hardware for this situation
1/16/20 #5: Expanding table ...
Since this table is relatively small, this is probably feasible. The smallest slides you will find are around 20" - 24" long closed, and when extended have an opening around 21" - 26". They're made of wood or galvanised steel. Rockler sells a 20" slide for $24/pair.To avoid racking when opening or closing, and keep the leaf from sagging, I'd use 2 pairs of slides. You'll also want some alignment pins to keep the leaf and each half of the table top as well as the aprons in place.
1/17/20 #6: Expanding table ...
What are you gaining on 12"? Its not enough for another person to sit. I would consider designing something with company boards and not re invent a table.
1/17/20 #7: Expanding table ...
Jonathan Mahnken:
Given the relatively small increase in extended size, perhaps a flip top table, or a drop leaf table, might be better suited to this application. It would effectively give you the size increase without the trouble of undertaking a standard extension table.
I have built large extension tables, and for the long table leaves not to warp, they need to be of a balanced construction, which you have control over, and they need to be stored flat, which you have no control over but may ultimately be responsible for.
Something to consider. Hope this helps.
TonyF
1/17/20 #8: Expanding table ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
Thanks for the info. The problem with drop leaves is that they want to be able to sit on both sides while expanded or contracted.
To Pete. What are company boards?
1/18/20 #9: Expanding table ...
Is this your solution to a problem the people/space presents? Or is this something they came up with and are loking for someone to make?
I am leery of things brought to me with the phrase " I can't find anyone to do this....." There is a reason it has not been done. Maybe more than one. A lot like the old "no one has ever done this before..."
My reason for turning down a request like this is just that it gains little or nothing in seating, and asks more of the customer in use down the road. If a board/leaf bows or flexes, guide pins or equal can pull it in. No big deal there. Slides? Make some that are closer tolerances than "ol' Walter of Wabash" makes to prevent racking.
And make sure your customer knows they will need two people to change the table.
1/19/20 #10: Expanding table ...
It seems a bit risky if it won't end up as the client wants. It's a difficult project, after all, even if on paper it seems do-able. Good luck if you go through with it, hope you're lucky and it all ends well.
1/22/20 #11: Expanding table ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
Thanks for the input. This table is completely their Idea. Nothing I would ever push to make. I feel like I have a pretty solid design, and so far i think Im considering the pedestal table style slides from Osborne wood products
1/22/20 #12: Expanding table ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
David, the design they're asking for is super simple. I agree that the leaf doesn't seem to add much function, but they think they're "being clever" with a small room
1/22/20 #13: Expanding table ...
Jonathan - keep in mind that pedestal slides and 4 leg table slides are equalized opposite from each other to reduce sag. In other words, don't use pedestal slides for a 4 legged table, and vice versa.
For a table this small with a 12" leaf, you could do the same thing with some 100 lb rated full extension ball bearing drawer slides. I've done this before in applications where conventional table slides wouldn't work.
1/24/20 #14: Expanding table ...
I saw it as being clever when I read the description.
"No one has ever done this before, eh?"
Clever, as compared to innovative, creative or just plain utilitarian will never measure up to the higher values. Clever can only, at best, be clever. Beyond that, it is just in the way.
1/24/20 #15: Expanding table ...
Website: http://www.mahnkencabinets.com
LOL, Perfect
1/24/20 #16: Expanding table ...
Jonathan Mahnken:
You could offer to build a 4' x 5' top that sits on top of the 3' x 5' table, and they can store that when not in use. If that is not clever enough, give them a bid on a 4' x 5' table, and then give them a bid on a wall that moves 12".
I've almost had clients like this one.
TonyF
3/25/20 #17: Expanding table ...
I've never done anything like this.
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