[robert c1]

Our glass patio table blew over this winter and is kaput...

I have some leftover 5/4"x6"x6' cedar I'll make a replacement top out of.

Rather than gap the boards like a sensible person does with deck furniture I got to thinking of gluing up a panel out of them and making a proper table top, then spar varnish.

more of an experiment than anything, I wonder how long the joints will stay put.

 

[CarpenterSFO]

Epoxy or TBII or TBIII should hold the joints. But a wide top that's only 5/4 has a decent chance of having warping/twisting/expansion problems across the full top. Do the experiment; let us know.

 

[TNTRenovate]

Titebond will hold it with no problem. You could even use the marine grade.

 

[hdavis]

The glue may outlast the table top. You're going to have to seal all sides of it, of course. I'm assuming you're going to leave the edges beveled when you glue up, so you don't have to plane the whole thing...

 

[robert c1]

Thanks, I will. nothing too fancy. I usually glue panels in a few sections then run em through the 13" planer. that way i just have a couple joints to hand plane.

for the warping i'll rip a couple boards in half and make an apron. Maybe even a few ribs in between. I'll take a few pics and post the results, don't hold your breath... it may be a few weeks.

 

[Gaboy]

Tight bond for the win...

 

[pdmig]

Each board will warp. So as you lay out the boards alternate the grain so they counteract each other. I think the leaving the V groove will give a spot for water and debris to accumulate.

Put slats but leave room for the top to expand or contract.

I am assuming this will be an outdoor table.

Spar varnish is great, till it breaks through then it is a pain and will not look good. I think use some type of oil that gets reapplied each year. Much better maintenance.

An way you go I would like to see.

 

[mako1]

I think you all have ben watching to much Norm Abram's shows

 

[jb4211]

I think you all have ben watching to much Norm Abram's shows

Too funny

 

[Morning Wood]

Is the cedar flat sawn or cvg? Flat sawn, alternate the heart side to prevent cupping. You don't want v grooves. Be careful using epoxy, it will really soak into the wood sometimes and can't be sanded out.