BUILDING AN 18 FOOT REDWOOD DESK TABLETOPThis log has been air drying for 2 yearsIt has been waiting for a custom order like thisThese planks are 1″ thickThis section was approximately 10′ longThese slabs will be taken to the kiln, now.The planks are loaded into the kiln, measured for moisture content, dated, and strapped with spacers for air flow. The kiln is run at 120° average temp with dehumidifiers to remove water content.The sanded dried sections are ready to join.The Domino holes are aligned and routered.The Dominos are glued and inserted.Clamps are used to evenly join the planksAdditional clamps are added.Proper clamping bracing will insure a flat invisible seamAdequate and frequent tightening and adjustments while drying is a mustAmple drying time is necessary before releasing the clampsShe is now ready for final sanding or planing where requiredThe live edges are rounded off to a smooth aesthetic finishThis went into the kiln 4 weeks ago at 99% moisture contentThe meter now reads between 6 – 9% and we are ready for final sandingThe finished board is now ready for it’s first resin pourThe first pour will be a sealer coat of approximately 1/16 inchThe first coat is set to dry. Sufficient drying time is allowedThe surface is sanded to remove bubbles and impurities, and prepped for the next coat.The magnification of the texture, grain, and color by the clear coat resin is dramaticThe next pour will be a 1/16 inch “deep pour” providing an indestructible glass like finishThe exposed live edge is sealed by hand.The freshly poured resin is heated gently to ensure an even coat and remove air bubblesThe finished surface is now set to cureThe desktop is now ready to be installedThe surface is preppedWe check for level and seal the seams on the existing cabinetsIts a perfect fitThe desktop is attached to the cabinets using L brackets from the insideEverything is secured and rock solidA final buff. The surface will be stain, burn, an scratch resistant with minimal maintenanceMinimal but regular polishing will maintain its luster
