A live edge table top is prone to warping due to natural expansion and contraction due to moisture and heat. Once moistened, wood will expand and then return to a flat position. Here are some steps to prevent warping and what you should do when your table top begins to warp. Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to enjoy your new table in no time. If you do find your live edge table warping, it’s easy to fix!
Steps to warping a live edge dining table
If you have a live edge dining table, you may be wondering how to prevent it from warping. You can take steps to prevent warping by following the instructions below. First, ensure that the wood is not too thin. Thinner wood is more prone to warping and twisting. Most reputable sawmills mill slabs of 3 inches or more, which accounts for the changes that occur as the wood dries. Avoid buying a live edge dining table that is finished less than one inch thick. If this is the case, you should be aware that the woodworker has experienced difficulty shaping the wood and is overly warped.
The first step to fix warped wood is to apply wet paper towels to the warped area. The wet paper towel should be large enough to cover the entire area. After applying the paper towels, rinse them with water and wring them out to remove any excess water. Don’t rub the paper towels directly against the wood; they’ll damage the Tier 1 Furnishings wood. Once you’ve removed the paper towels, you can then apply a thin layer of paste wax on the warped area.
Symptoms of warped wood
If you have a live edge table, you may be wondering if you should flatten the wood before using it. While it is possible to flatten the wood without damaging it, the best way to prevent it from warping is to clean it. Use a dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner to wipe away dust and debris. Do not use damp cloths as this will bring moisture back into the hardwood.
One of the most common causes of warped wood is improper storage. Exposure to humidity and moisture can cause wood to warp. If you store your lumber in the wrong way, it will likely warp in the center. This is especially common with large wooden surfaces like tables and other woodworking projects. Fortunately, there are some easy home remedies that you can use to fix warped wood. Here are the most common causes and cures for warped wood on live edge tables
Preventing warped wood
To prevent warped wood on live edge tables, keep the surrounding structure stable by wrapping the warped wood in a damp towel. If the warped wood is not too large, you can use a hot iron to help it absorb the moisture. After the warped wood absorbs moisture, the wood fibers relax and return to their original shape. Once this is done, clamp the wood and allow it to dry. You can also apply polyurethane, either by painting or spraying it.
If you want to avoid warped wood, store the wood in a warm, dry place before use. Wood can expand and contract depending on the humidity level of the outside environment, and this movement can lead to suboptimal results. It is best to use wood that does not expand or contract a great deal, such as redwood, which has a tight grain structure. This kind of wood is less likely to warp due to its high density and light weight.
Cost of working with live edge wood
Depending on the type of wood, some slabs of Live Edge wood will cost more than others. The most expensive types of wood are white oak, cherry, and walnut. Less expensive types include pine-oak, hickory, and ash. While these slabs can cost more, the price of each one will be built into the final price of the table. To help you budget your costs, consider the amount of time needed for each piece of Live Edge wood.
If you choose to finish a Live Edge piece with an epoxy resin, you’ll need to purchase some finishing supplies. You’ll need a polishing pad or microfiber cloth, a polishing sponge, gloves, sandpaper, dust collection bags, and a heat source. If you plan on using epoxy resin, you’ll also need to purchase silicone or a heat source. For each step, you’ll need to measure the amount of epoxy resin needed and purchase the finishing supplies you’ll need to apply the finish.
