My father-in-law has asked me to make him a small outdoor table for the balcony on his apartment. He can't buy a ready made table because of the awkward shape and size that he wants. I am thinking of doing something in the style of "teak" garden furniture with a slatted top. I am assuming that true teak is not readily available or at the least is very expensive. Any ideas for an alternative hardwood, and what finish to apply?
Thanks
I'd get a ready made one and use the bits to make whatever you want.
Iroko is the usual teak replacement. Oil is the usual for outdoor since it will go on over existing oil finishes. DON'T varnish it, the varnish will wear and it will be a real bugger to sand between all those slats and underneath to get a new coat to bind.
Peter
If you can find a timber mill ask the owner if he will slice a knotty piece of oak into a 3 inch section for you. Then you want another piece or two to use for the base.
That's a really good idea. I find it's often cheaper to buy an IKEA shelving unit or cupboard & modify it than buy the timber.
I quite like this idea, thanks. The table top is approx oval about 18" x 24". Would a 3" thick piece this size be stable enough in outdoor conditions - i.e. covered balcony, so no direct rain but subject to all other elements of the weather? How would you finish it?
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