Metal table build plans

jknudsen11

I've found a fabricator to help me build a metal frame for a table that I will then create a concrete top for.  I want to make sure I'm getting him the right measurements and am thinking my design through before I send him the final numbers.  To account for airflow, we have discussed having the egg sit on an expanded metal shelf, which seems safe enough in my mind to not need anything below it like a brick or table nest.  Does that sound right or would it be best to just get the table nest?  Assuming that is a good plan, is 15" from top of the concrete counter to the shelf going to be right?  I've looked all around and can't find anywhere that talks about the shelf height if you don't have anything under it.

HeavyG

You don't say what size egg you have.

Here is a link to the BGE table plans for a Large: http://www.biggreenegg.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/BGE-TP-LARGE.pdf

I think expanded metal mesh would be fine if it will support the weight. No need for a table nest or spacers as you would have more than enough air flow with the mesh shelf.

My only concern with resting on metal mesh is that stuff can sometimes be a bit abrasive. The egg certainly won't move much once it is in place but you may have to wiggle it around while getting in in position. Might that action dig into the ceramic base? Don't know. If the surface of the mesh is smooth when you run your hand over it I wouldn't worry about it.

If the mesh is not really smooth I would think about setting the egg on  a large smooth ceramic floor tile (or enough smaller tiles to fully cover the base of the egg) so if you do need to wiggle it around when placing it in position it wouldn't harm the bottom of the egg. 

Look forward to seeing pics of what you end up with!

jknudsen11

Thanks @HeavyG - I do have a large, sorry.  I've designed mine to match the long table plans for the large so I can buy a cover for it.  Your concern around getting it in position is a good one to think about and one I'll make sure to talk to the builder about this.

Once I get the measurements to him it should be done in a few days so pics will come soon.

Tspud1

Just don't leave the screen open on lower draft door. Since your top is going to be thicker, you may want to bring the lower shelf up a inch, maybe 14" from top. Most wooden tables are 15"

jknudsen11

Tspud1 said:

Just don't leave the screen open on lower draft door.

Can you clarify what you mean by this?

Since your top is going to be thicker, you may want to bring the lower shelf up a inch, maybe 14" from top. Most wooden tables are 15"

I am planning on 1.5" concrete top, so the plan is for the frame to be built with a 13.5" shelf for a final height to be 15".  

Tspud1

jknudsen11 said:

Tspud1 said:

Just don't leave the screen open on lower draft door.

Can you clarify what you mean by this?

Since your top is going to be thicker, you may want to bring the lower shelf up a inch, maybe 14" from top. Most wooden tables are 15"

I am planning on 1.5" concrete top, so the plan is for the frame to be built with a 13.5" shelf for a final height to be 15".  

Some have made posts here and other sites about a hot ember coming out of that opening and falling on deck or thru crack to under the deck causing a fire.

jknudsen11

Some have made posts here and other sites about a hot ember coming out of that opening and falling on deck or thru crack to under the deck causing a fire.

Ah, that is something to think about.

I was also concerned that, with it sitting right on the shelf, would I have room for the Guru fan to plug in?  It might make sense to just do a solid shelf and buy the table nest.  With that plan, is 16.5" or 17" the right height?

HeavyG

Does your Large not have the built in fire screen on the lower vent to stop embers from popping out?

Good point about a pit controller fan. I have no idea if a table nest lifts it up enough for many/most fans or not.

jknudsen11

Mine does have the fire screen, I've never had embers fly out but it is something to think about.  Leaving room for the pit controller fan has me thinking the solid shelf with a nest will be a good thing to have.

NPHuskerFL

I'd personally go with a beefy structured bottom shelf vs expanded metal. Just my preference.