Step 4: Cut the Beams

cut the beams to build a table from salvage beams
Photo: Kristine Larsen
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With the beams faceup and clamped edge to edge, use a circular saw to make a straight 90-degree cut along your pencil line on each end. Flip the beams facedown, and bevel the bottom edges by adjusting the blade on your circular saw to a 45-degree angle (shown). The bevel gives a beefy top a lighter, more finished look.
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    More in Remodels & Upgrades

    Tools List

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    • pipe wrench
      Pipe wrench
    • miter saw
      Compound miter saw
    • t-square
      T-square
    • Pencil
    • hand clamps
      Clamps
    • circular saw
      Circular saw
    • drill
      Drill/driver
    • 3/8-inch spade bit
      Spade bit
    • socket wrench
      Socket wrench
    • dust mask
      Dust mask
    • safety glasses
      Protective glasses
    • random orbit sander
      Random-orbit sander
    • 2-and-a-half-inch paintbrush
      Paintbrush
    • Chamois or lint-free rag
      Lint-free rag

    Shopping List

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    ¾-inch gas pipe and corresponding elbows, flanges, and tee connectors

    Salvaged 2x8 joists for the straps

    Salvaged beams for the top

    ½-by-3 ½-inch lag screws2½-inch wood screws

    60-, 80-, and 120-grit sandpaper

    Shellac

    Beeswax polish