table top clearance

glousteau

I'm building a table/transporter/box for my small. I was wondering how much clearance you have on your table top between the egg and the top plywood or 2by? Meaning where I want the top to intersect the egg, the diameter of the egg is ~14.5", should I cut the hole in the plywood at 15"? leaving me .25" clearance all around, or how much clearance should i have between the egg and the top?

I've seen some posts where the table top has gotten charred from egg heat. Whats a good rule of thumb for this clearance?

thanks

The Naked Whiz

I'd say at least 1/2 inch all around. I've charred my table with less than that.