table crack repair

[charlie spencer]

pic 2a.jpgpic 2b.jpgpic3.jpgA completed and finished table developed a crack that did not go completely through the board. I mitered the ends of plastic straws and inserted them into the crack as far as possible. Then I used a syringe to fill the straws with glue and squeezed the glue into the crack. The repair is not obvious in this rustic piece. A rare problem, but this technique may work in similar cases.

[Jamie Buxton]

What glue -- epoxy?

[charlie spencer]

titebond- after clamping the gap was zero

[Jim Matthews]

Any reinforcement added, underneath?

[Doug Garson]

Interested to see an "after" picture. The stresses that opened the crack may still be there and the crack may reopen if excessive clamping pressure was needed to close the gap.

[Don Stephan]

Why did the crack form? Can the tabletop not expand and contract in width? Was the wood not sufficiently dry? Was the tree's pith (growth center) in the board? Did the board contain reaction wood (branch, crotch, . . .)?

[charlie spencer]

I could close the gap with my fingers

[charlie spencer]

Before and after kiln drying a line was visible ,but no separation. Probably humidity change caused movement.

[charlie spencer]

the owner has the table, but he helped with the build. I will report changes.