Built a Table

JMSetzler

I have zero woodworking skills but I wanted to build a table on my own, so I set out to do this which also included buying a few tools like a miter saw and a jigsaw.  I actually modified the plans I found on the Grill Dome website to build this table...



I used pressure treated lumber.  The first lesson I learned here as a novice woodworker is to let the wood dry for a couple weeks before cutting it to keep shrinkage from being an issue.  I'll know that next time...



I started out by assembling the bottom deck...



Then I attached the 4x4 legs.  (After assembly was complete, I came back to these joints and added 3/8" carriage bolts through these joints for added strength on the table.)



Next step was installing the wheels and axle.  I used a 36" piece of 5/8" threaded rod and two pneumatic 10" tires from Harbor Freight.  The legs on this side of the table are 1 1/2" shorter than the other legs and the axle hole is centered 3 1/2" up from the base of these shorter legs...



Next step was assembling the frame for the table top...



Then installing the table top boards... (I went back after the fact and straightened up the edge here to make it even across the side...)



The jigsaw made quick work of the hole for the grill...



Finished up with a nice coat of Cabot's Australian Timber Oil (Mahagony Flame).  This table will not sit out in the rain.  I'll be able to keep it under my awning and out of the direct weather...



I made a handle for the end with a couple half inch floor flanges, street elbows, and a 24" piece of black pipe.  I cleaned these, primed, and painted with rustoleum... 



I invited my girlfriend's dad and brother over to help me move the grill into the table.  That only cost me a brisket dinner  

I started with these plans:

http://www.grilldome.com/Files/LargeWoodTablePlans.pdf

I modified a few dimensions to fit my grill.  The hole diameter and the distance from the top of the bottom shelf to the top of the table top... 

This project was fun for me and I learned a lot while doing it.  It was an easy enough project for a beginner

jimfastcar

Looks nice but based on other threads and advice you may want to consider some Firebrick under the egg

lilwooty

I agree with jimfastcar.  Not enough heat protection under your cooker.  Great job on the table though.  I love the stain color.

henapple

for having no wood working skills it looks damn good. if you need a gap or fire brick( which you do) just lower the bottom shelf. should be easy enough. nice job.

SmokinDAWG82

As said, you're gonna need something underneath it. Problem is you may have to lower the bottom shelf in order to add enough protection without raising it up. Great job and nice looking table!

tazcrash

I think the lowering of the shelf for a paver is not the problem. The problem is it's gonna cost him another brisket! 

SmokeyPitt

That looks great!  I agree from what I have seen you will probably want a paver or something to protect the wood under the egg.

Just a question for the group...could you add a paver and just let the egg sit a little higher?  Are there concerns about it being too top heavy; or just for appearance?

What about the table nest as another option:

http://www.biggreenegg.com/eggcessories/table-nest/

SWVABeanCounter

Even using a table nest, I wouldn't want it to be directly over wood.  It may be OK, but why take the chance.  I've got mine on a nest with a ceramic tile undeneath.

shtgunal3

Great job! Love the stain.

JMSetzler

I thought about the paver also and did a little research.  I actually plan to test this table out for heat under the grill.  I cooked a brisket on it Saturday night but I worked at 250 degrees for the entire cook.  Later I ramped it up to 375/400 for a dish of mac and cheese.  There is no visible sign of heat damage yet.  I have a 1" gap between the base of the grill and the table.  I believe that will probably be enough to keep the table surface from ever reaching a temp above 150-175 degrees.  I'll still monitor it especially when I do a hotter cook.

SWVABeanCounter

Oh, by the way, great looking table.  All you people say you have no skill and post beautiful pictures of your tables.  I'm jealous, because I truly do not have the woodworking skills, but I do like my table.

CANMAN1976

Too risky... You got to get a paver or table nest, I wouldn't risk it.

Splatrollout

Great job. Still ucing the nest but wish to move to a table at some time. Thanks for the plans

JMSetzler

SWVABeanCounter said:

Oh, by the way, great looking table.  All you people say you have no skill and post beautiful pictures of your tables.  I'm jealous, because I truly do not have the woodworking skills, but I do like my table.

This was my first project ever that involved cutting wood and putting it together.  A picnic table is next on the agenda...

sticks88

Your's is just what I need.I've send my son the woodworker a email on this.Is that an XL egg?Was wondering cause that's the size I'm planning on getting.

cazzy

@sticks88

It looks like XL Kamado Joe

jimfastcar

JMSetzler said:

I thought about the paver also and did a little research.  I actually plan to test this table out for heat under the grill.  I cooked a brisket on it Saturday night but I worked at 250 degrees for the entire cook.  Later I ramped it up to 375/400 for a dish of mac and cheese.  There is no visible sign of heat damage yet.  I have a 1" gap between the base of the grill and the table.  I believe that will probably be enough to keep the table surface from ever reaching a temp above 150-175 degrees.  I'll still monitor it especially when I do a hotter cook.

 

Why take the chance ?  Call me paranoid........

CajunEggHead

Looks good and useable
:-/

caliking

Nice table, JM!