Solid wood counter/desktop-breadboard needed?

[Chris Atzinger]

Hi,

I am in the final design phases of a set of built-ins for a home office. The drawing is below. The "counter-top" is 132" long, so in order to avoid having a seam somewhere if I use plywood, I am considering just using 6/4 solid maple. I am concerned about cupping, though.

Do I need to use bread board ends on the counter-top and desktop? Is there a different/better way to avoid cupping?

Thanks!
Chris

[Steve Jenkins]

I have made hundreds of solid wood table tops and if you get a nice flat glue-up and finish top and bottom equally you won't have any problems. I hate breadboard ends so I don't use them. a couple of my bigger tops were 72" round, and 50"x144". Those two were from 8/4 maple and ash respectively.

[Ed Edwards]

Hi Chris,
An 11' 6/4 by maybe 20" solid maple countertop? I hope you have deep pockets and a very long jointer. As long as the stock is flat and stable, I'd pass on the breadboard edge.
Ed

[Jim Andrew]

I've built solid wood countertops, used 1" material and doubled up around the edge. Have one on the entertainment center in the living room.

[Steve Griffin]

IT looks like you have an apron around the perimeter under the top. No breadboard needed if you do.

Breadboards really come in handy and are good idea for situations like a dining table where you cantilever out past the structure 18" or more. OR if you really have a desire to see no end grain.

[Chris Atzinger]

Hi,

Thanks for the feedback. It makes me feel a bit more comfortable. The cabinet bases are actually just euro style cabinets, no apron. The bases will give support around the perimeter, though.

Now I just have to figure out how to machine these boards!

Thanks!
Chris