Ideas for Garage Workbenches
A garage workbench provides a convenient place to keep tools and supplies for home improvement and repair projects, electronic repairs and outdoor maintenance. It also makes projects go more quickly and smoothly, since your tools and your work area are all in one place. There are numerous types and styles of workbenches that can meet your individual needs. Does this Spark an idea?
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ESD Topped Workbench
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Choose an electrostatic discharge ESD workspace top if you will be working with electronic equipment. This type of material will keep static from damaging sensitive electronic components as you work. If you plan to store electronic parts in your workbench, consider lining your storage shelves and drawers with ESD material as well. It is also a good idea to purchase an ESD mat to place on the floor to provide additional protection against static damage.
Steel Workbench
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Build a steel bench if you do not plan to work on electronic equipment. A steel workbench offers superior strength and durability over hardwood and laminate benches. It is an appropriate choice for heavy repairs and construction, although it would be overkill for most home-repair applications. Building a steel bench yourself is a difficult task unless you have extensive experience with metal cutting and welding.
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Plastic Laminate
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Choose a plastic laminate workbench if you will work primarily on small projects. Affixing plastic laminate over wood gives your work area a strong, smooth surface that resists chemical spills and is easy to clean. The main drawback is that some types of plastic laminate can be easily scratched or marred, so this type of workbench may not be appropriate for heavier assembly or repair projects.
Graphite Composite
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Select graphite composite as your workbench material if you want a more durable alternative to plastic laminate. Graphite composite is strong, resists marring and scratches and will not warp. This type of workbench will also withstand most spills, including oils, solvents and corrosive chemicals. It also resists moisture, which makes it an appropriate choice if your home is located in a humid climate.
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