How Tall Should a Router Table Be?
Carpenters, woodworkers, and DIY enthusiasts all depend on router tables. In addition to offering precision cuts that are impossible with handheld routers, they offer a stable surface for routing operations.
How Tall Should a Router Table Be?
The height of the router table should be approximately 3 feet off the floor. The longer the height the better, as this makes it easier to reach the router for maintenance purposes.
This article will explain how tall a router table should be, and what factors to consider when choosing the right height for your router table.
See Also: How Does Router Table Work?
How Tall Should a Router Table Be? – Guide
If the router table is too low, there is too much clearance under the router and the base will hit the workpiece or the bed plate and potentially damage the machine.
If the router table is too high, it may be difficult to reach the router and the router will be lower than desired. You should consider a combination of height and reach. Here is a guide for the perfect router table height.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The most important factor to consider when choosing the height of your router table is comfort and ergonomics.
A router table that is too high or too low can cause discomfort and strain on the neck, back, and arms, which can lead to fatigue and decreased accuracy.
To avoid these problems, it’s essential to choose a height that allows you to stand in a comfortable, natural posture with your arms bent at a 90-degree angle.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a router table height that is similar to the height of your workbench.
This allows you to transition between routing and other tasks without having to adjust your posture or tools.
If you are of average height (5’7″ – 5’10”), a router table height of 36″ – 38″ is ideal. However, if you are taller or shorter, you may need to adjust the height of your router table accordingly.
Height Considerations for Router Bit Clearance
Another factor to consider when choosing the height of your router table is the height of the router bit.
Router bits come in various lengths and sizes, and it’s essential to choose a height that provides sufficient clearance between the bit and the table.
If the height of the router table is too low, the bit may touch the table and cause damage or accidents.
If the height is too high, it may be difficult to control the router and maintain a stable posture.
To determine the optimal height for your router table, measure the length of your longest router bit and add 4″-6″ for clearance.
This will ensure that the router bit does not touch the table and provides enough space for easy and safe routing operations.
Height Considerations for Dust Collection
Routing operations produce a lot of sawdust and debris that can interfere with the accuracy and safety of routing operations.
To prevent this, it’s essential to choose a height that allows for efficient dust collection. A height that is too low may not provide enough clearance for dust collection equipment, while a height that is too high may reduce the efficiency of dust collection.
To determine the optimal height for dust collection, consider the height and design of your dust collection system and choose a height that provides enough clearance for efficient operation.
A height of 36″ – 38″ is typically ideal for most dust collection systems, but you may need to adjust the height depending on your specific setup.
Height Considerations for Table Saw Compatibility
If you plan to use your router table in conjunction with a table saw, it’s essential to choose a height that is compatible with your table saw.
A height that is too low may not provide enough clearance for the table saw fence, while a height that is too high may make it difficult to transition between routing and sawing operations.
To determine the optimal height for table saw compatibility, measure the height of your table saw and choose a height that is similar or slightly lower.
This will allow you to transition smoothly between routing and sawing operations without having to adjust your posture or tools.
Conclusion
No matter where you are in your woodworking journey, having a router table that fits your size and needs is essential to producing your best work.
Taking the time to determine the right height for your router table will ensure that your time spent in the shop is as comfortable and productive as possible.
Read Also: What Can You Do with a Router Table?
