Different Kinds of Workbenches

by DoItYourself Staff

Storage & Workshop Items Safety Tips

Never overload any tool storage device or sawhorses with more weight than the tool can hold or support. Always check manufacturer’s specifications for weight limitations.

When supporting long material on sawhorses, be sure to allow enough overhang on each end so the material won’t slip off.

When placing tools in tool belts, always make sure the sharp edges of tools are pointed down and always keep blades in utility knives retracted when stored in a tool belt.

When using folding sawhorses, always make sure the legs are fully extended and locked into place if it comes equipped with locking device.

Line drawers and trays that hold sharp tools with scrap pieces of carpet.

Always make sure your tool box’s handle is securely attached.

Never stand on a tool box to extend your reach.

Tool Box

Is available in a variety of configurations and made from a variety of materials, with steel being the most popular.

Plastic toolboxes are available in a number of styles as well. Some are suited for light-duty use, while others are comparable to steel in quality.

The highest quality plastic boxes are constructed of polypropylene, and some models can hold up to 75 lbs. of tools.

Some carpenters and precision tool users use hardwood chests because the wood absorbs rust-producing condensation.

Carpenters’ toolboxes are specially designed so carpenters can carry hand saws and framing squares in the same box with other tools.

Tool Chest

Stores tools as well as parts, screws, nuts, bolts and other small pieces.

Available in a variety of drawer configurations, with four- and six-drawer configurations being the most popular.

Many tool chests also come with casters or wheels for portability.

Tool Caddy

Plastic revolving storage container that holds tools and items such as nails, bolts, screws, glue and wire in tiers of circular trays.

The caddies are made of a high-impact plastic and feature a ball bearing base plate, allowing the unit to revolve easily.

Work Belt

Is generally constructed of leather or nylon and has compartments to keep tools and fasteners organized.

Can be purchased as a single unit that comes complete with a belt and separate compartments and pouches for various tools, or as individual components with the belt and pouches sold separately.

Most work belts come equipped with a steel or leather hammer loop, a tape measure compartment or clip, and various nail pouches as well as individual compartments for tools and fasteners.

Belts generally fit waist sizes from 29” to 46” and even 52” and are constructed of leather or padded nylon for comfort.

Some come equipped with compartments for cell phones.

Nail/Tool Pouch

Comes in a variety of configurations for holding tools and fasteners.

Main pockets generally hold fasteners and smaller, individual compartments hold tools.

Generally constructed of leather or nylon.

Belt, which is sold separately, fits into slots in pouch

Specialty Stationary Workbench

Comes with a variety of drawers, holes and pegs for tool storage.

Some models are equipped with vises to hold work firmly in place.

These units are generally expensive and can’t be easily moved around the shop.

Mobile Workbench

Enables user to position a workbench wherever it is needed in the workshop.

Some models feature adjustable leveling feet, adjustable height, detachable casters, latching doors, drawers, hooks for hanging tools, dust collection ports, quick-change tool set-up, lock-down hardware and corner tops.

They can hold large and small tools, and some models are designed to serve as a shop bench, router station or clamping station.

Folding Workbench

Is a portable specialty bench that comes as a tabletop or folding bench.

The folding benches offer easy storage and a firm, broad base.

Many models come with a tabletop clamping device to secure work piece to the table and hold irregular pieces securely.

Folding Sawhorse

Made of either construction-grade tubular aluminum or steel or fabricated steel.

Most require a wooden cross-beam (Generally a 2x4 or 2x6) be added. With a metal cross-beam there is danger of ruining saw teeth.

Most steel models have adjustable legs that fold up into the unit for easy storage.

Plastic units generally fold flat for easy storage. Some also are equipped with a lower shelf.

Most non-adjustable units are between 24” and 27”, which is considered a comfortable working height

Sawhorse Brackets

Generally made of steel or high-impact polystyrene and convert dimensional lumber into a sturdy wooden sawhorse.

Brackets allow user to construct a sawhorse of any height and length.

Brackets are generally secured to wood with screws, nails or wing nuts. Other types provide flanged nail holes for easy nail removal with a claw hammer.

Selling features include ease of assembly since miter cuts are not necessary and sturdiness and convenient storage since most brackets allow legs to fold together.