What is the best way to do the table top ?

fairchase

Sorry for all the questions , but I want to get everything figured out before I start building.

What are your opinions on the best way to do the top on a table that is going to sit outside in the elements uncovered ? Solid jointed top , planks butted together , spaces between ? The top will be 60" x 32".  I'm in Ky. so we see it all ; rain,snow,hot,cold,etc.

onedbguru

planks with space and LOTS of varnish/poly BEFORE putting it together to make sure it is 100%covered. should prevent it from warping/splitting. I would use Teak, Redwood or Cedar in that order. 

fairchase

I've got 1x10 and 2 x 4 eastern red cedar (all heartwood) ready to go.

I see where the BGE tables look like they just butt the boards togther. I doubt how well this will work ?

yumdinger

I went with 4" Porcelain tiles.  I wanted a durable surface that could withstand temps.  It looks great and will be weather proof.

walleyv

Eastern cedar is a good product to use.  Onedbguru is right about the spacing on the top and the varnish, 1/4" spacing is plenty and if you round the edges it improves the appearance.  Make sure to use marine spar varnish and not polyurethane.  Poly will yellow in direct sun light.  If you can you may want to split those 1x10's into.  It will help to prevent cupping.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

stevesails

i used cedar.. and put Sikkens (CETOL) on it to seal.. Get it at the boat store.

 

fairchase

which cetol product did you use ?