MaryAnnCarter
skill level
Estimated cost $150 Time 
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MaryAnnCarter
Clean existing table top. Although construction adhesive is tough, make sure the surface is clean, dry, and free of oils for the best adhesion.
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
The frame around the table will allow for a finished edge and will be the perimeter guide for the floor cutouts. To determine the height of the frame, add the thickness of the floorboard and the thickness of the tabletop. Use a table saw to rip the tabs and slots out of the frame boards.
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
Use a miter saw to cut the corners at a 45-degree angle for a clean, even look. To rip off the tongue and groove edges, set the table saw to the width of the tongue/groove and run the board through the saw. Attach the boards to the sides of the table with 2” finishing nails. Make sure the frame is the correct height so the floor boards are flush with the top edge of the frame.
MaryAnnCarter
The tongue and groove should be torn off the corner pieces to ensure a snug and even fit within the frame. To rip the tongue/groove edges, set the table saw to the width of the tongue/groove and run the board through the saw. It's easiest to rip the tongue/groove out of the board before making the 45 degree cuts on the miter saw. This way the board stays longer when pushed through the table saw.
MaryAnnCarter
Start in one corner and work diagonally to the opposite corner. Moving from the corner across the table, use the frame as a guide for the 45 degree cuts. Lay the board on the edge of the frame and use a speed square to mark the angle then cut to length.
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
Apply construction adhesive to lock the boards together with the tongue/groove. The tongue and groove will give a strong grip with no gaps on the table. Use a piece of scrap wood with your hammer or mallet to tap the boards into the locked position so they all fit together snugly. Don't hit the table pieces directly, as you don't want to risk damaging them.
If the table is larger than the long floor boards and multiple boards are required to complete a diagonal, use a 90 degree cut to install the boards end to end. Only the boards that abut the frame will be 45 degree cuts. Be sure to stagger the joints for best aesthetics.
MaryAnn Carter
MaryAnn Carter
When all the boards have been installed, add a custom finish. If your floorboards already have the desired finish, stop here and enjoy your new table. To add a custom finish, use an orbital sander to remove the existing finish from the floor boards. Be sure to clean off all sawdust and debris before applying the stain. Add a layer of polyurethane to seal the wood and protect it from spills and stains.
MaryAnnCarter
If the table base also needs a new finish, sand and paint or stain to desired color.
MaryAnnCarter
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