BGE Table - Open vs. Closed

swbouton

A friend helped me build a very strong, large table for my LBGE a few weeks back, but it is ugly.  I want to enclose the unit, but he warns that it will be horrible with mildew and such, so I should not enclose it. I live in southeastern NC where it is often hot and humid.  We are also very close to the Intracoastal Waterway and our house backs up to a marsh that brings you to salt water.

What do you folks think?  Should I enclose it making it more attractive and keeping my cooking stuff dry, or should I let it all hang out?

Thanks for your advice.

nolaegghead

I see tables, both home-made and professionally made, that are designed both ways.  I haven't heard of regrets from having enclosed drawers or cabinets.  I'd think if you leave a cabinet or drawer table in the rain it can be a problem - you need to consider ventilation and drainage.  You don't want standing water in either design.

henapple

You could always install properly placed vents to provide air circulation. Dammit Nola, I just read your response...beat me to it. Moisture isn't always a problem...just trapping it. You could also seal the interior.

nolaegghead

I sealed everything on every side.  Yep, you want to encapsulate the wood so it doesn't absorb moisture and self-destruct, and you want to shed water and not trap it.  Xactly henapple.