What type of corner is stronger for a wood box that will sit under 8 foot table legs?
Question:I have an 8 foot table that is just too short, so I am building two boxes to put under the table legs. I want to know which type of corner is stronger, 2 X 4's at right angles or at 45 degree angles?
Answers:
It sounds as if the table will put no stress onto your joints so it is more a question of convenience and appearance. If you have a miter saw then 45 degree joints would be easy and look nice. If you have to cut joints by hand and the appearance is not important I would go with 90 degree cuts.
45's, a triangle is the strongest structural shape
Certainly Daniels is correct within the laws of physics. It seems however in your case it would make little difference unless the dead weight of the table had to rest on the stress points of a triangle.
The other part of the support issue largely depends on the structure/construction of the "box" substances used, IE: framing and plywood, included in thoughts of the weight of the table top.
Steven Wolf
Personally, in this situation, I'd go with the right angles, then drill into the ends with a 1/2 inch bit, and dowel and glue them. Cover your frame, or box, with 3/4 inch plywood, screwed and glued, and you're done.
why not have someone with a lathe turn 4 extensions and use dowel screws to attach them to the existing legs. shouldnt take but an hour to turn the extensions.. what kind of wood is the table made of.
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