Workbench Height?

PaulBeinert Feb 2, 2013

  1. PaulBeinert

    PaulBeinert TrainBoard Supporter

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    I just assembled two small file cabinets on wheels and am planning on using them as the pedestals for my workbench which will be about 66x22 and roll under my layout when not in use.

    The surface of my office desk is 30", the kitchen table is 29.5" and the dining room table is 31".

    Is this a good height or do most modelers prefer it to be a few inches higher - say 33"?
     
  2. Hytec

    Hytec TrainBoard Member

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    Paul, my bench is 36". My back suffers after a while, but then I am slightly older than you. I think 33" should work for you, all other things being equal.
     
  3. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    I like being able to steady my work, using my elbows or forearms, so that is one consideration for my own purposes. My present bench is at 29 inches and is comfortable for me. But that does also depend upon the chair/seating used- Seat height, and other support. And I am certain you will be seated when using the workbench.

    Set up what works best for you. There is no standard, it's what best fits your needs.
     
  4. COverton

    COverton TrainBoard Supporter

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    My last layout was 43" high and I loved it. The latest build is 26" high and I love it. I seem to enjoy working and looking at a layout's primary operating level from just about any angle. Some with age-related problems might be better off building between waist and sternum level, but no higher if one's shoulders are creaky and chronically sore. For me, I seem to be in generally good order and don't mind placing weight on one shoulder while reaching 30" into the scenery on my current low build. I actually appreciate this capability over having to drag a stool and stand on it to reach about as far into my last layout.

    If I want the view that the last layout gave me, closer to reality, then I can sit in a computer desk wheeled chair and slide around on the wooden smoothed floor.
     
  5. gregamer

    gregamer TrainBoard Supporter

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    My workbench is 30". The primary consideration for me when I built it was wether the arms of my chair would fit beneath the bench.
     
  6. Shortround

    Shortround TrainBoard Member

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    Since having to sell my house 3 years ago, I use plastic fold-able sawhorses and a 24" hole core door as a work bench which is 32" tall. And have a 2'x4' collapsible table that is 28" tall for the computer and paperwork. Both work very well for me.

    I'm just starting on a layout and haven't decided on it's hight.
     
  7. Hytec

    Hytec TrainBoard Member

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    I forgot to mention that I'm 6'2", making my 36" bench more comfortable than the lower ones others appear to have.
     
  8. PaulBeinert

    PaulBeinert TrainBoard Supporter

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    Workbench is Functional

    I decided to make a box top out of 1x8s and 3/4 hardwood plywood.
    The two sets of draws slip about 1/2" into the top where they meet a couple cleats.
    I figure I can make three more draws across the top at another time.
    Stiil need to trim it, stain and finish it but it is quite functional as it is.
    The height ended up being 33 1/2".

    Not a bad accomplishment for the weekend :)
     

    Attached Files:

  9. Hytec

    Hytec TrainBoard Member

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    Paul, that is a nice looking work bench. Though I see now that your and my installation have a distinct difference...you sit on a normal height chair, while I sit on a bar stool. Yours appears to be more comfortable, but mine is easier for this old body to stand from.
     
  10. PaulBeinert

    PaulBeinert TrainBoard Supporter

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    Hank,
    I reserve barstool sitting for drinking :)
     
  11. JamesHetzel

    JamesHetzel TrainBoard Member

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    I can't imagine sitting at a work bench and not having a drink (of some sort). I just bought 5 foldable cup holders to attach to the sides of my layout. I see it as askiong for trouble by not providing a place to set a drink.
     
  12. Hytec

    Hytec TrainBoard Member

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    No worries about that, I have a constant supply right at hand thanks to the Wortham Woods Adult Beverage Company's facility....

    [​IMG]
     
  13. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    I'd hate to see what would happen at my work bench, after sipping any product from this source. :oops:
     

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