Surprising Facts about Workbenches

1. Workbenches can last for centuries

High-quality wooden workbenches—especially those made from beech or oak can last 100+ years with proper care.

👉 Many antique benches are still in daily use today.

2. Workbench can consist many different parts

These parts are manually assembled after CNC Processing.

👉 Each workbench is original and unmistakable in its own way.

3. Heavier = better

Unlike most furniture, a workbench is designed to be as heavy as possible.

👉 The weight prevents movement when planing, sawing, or chiseling.

4. Those holes have a purpose

The holes in the top (called dog holes) are not decoration.

👉 They hold bench dogs, clamps and other accessories to secure workpieces firmly in place.

5. Imperfections are actually good

A perfectly smooth, glossy surface is not ideal for a workbench.

👉 Slight texture improves grip and prevents wood from slipping.

6. Oil is better than varnish but,

Many woodworkers prefer oil finishes (like linseed oil) over varnish.

👉 Easier to repair and doesn’t make the surface too slippery. Combination of oil on the bench top and varnish on bottom is the best protection agains moisture.

7. Bench design affects your skill

A poorly designed bench can make work harder and less accurate.

👉 A good bench improves precision, comfort, and safety.

8. Height matters more than you think

The ideal height depends on the task: lower for planing, higher for detailed work

👉 There’s no one-size-fits-all height.

9. Maintenance is simple but crucial

Regular oiling, cleaning, and tightening joints can double or triple a bench’s lifespan.

👉 Do the maintenance regually - ideally every 6 months