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Expansion ? re plywood to 2X4

15 years ago

I am attaching 3/4" plywood for a workbench top to supports made of 2x4 stud lumber. I plan on using metal L brackets. Should I elongate the holes in the brackets to allow for expansion and contraction? If so how do I orient the brackets? The top will be sitting on the edge of 22" 2x4s.

Comments (3)

sombreuil_mongrel
15 years ago
Nothing to worry about, plywood is stable due to it's composition. It will not move significantly unless soaked with water.
Casey
txmat
Original Author
15 years ago
Thanks Casey, I was thinking that might be the case as I remember something about plywood having no directional grain. No need for slots sure makes it easier.
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kudzu9
15 years ago
Why use L-brackets at all? If you want a bench that will be more solid and stable, you should glue and screw the top to the frame. The only time I use L-brackets is when I have to reinforce something that I'm repairing and visible fasteners won't be acceptable. Since this is a workbench, I'm presuming it's not a big deal if a few countersunk screw heads are visible.

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