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How to install a collapsible benchtop?

Hi, long time reader, first time poster.

I'm currently trying to install a collapsible bench for my laundry, as space is at a premium but there is unused space behind the external door, which we rarely use.

I've settled on a 18mm thick merbau panel for the benchtop which I've cut to 850x600 and varnished to make it waterproof. My plan is to secure to the wall using Carinya 300x145mm folding spring loaded brackets which should take the weight easily and allow the bench to hide behind the door when not in use.

My question is about where to fix the brackets on the table and wall as the stud placement makes it a bit tricky. From left to right from where I want to position the bench, there are studs available at 50mm and 460mm of the 850mm width of the bench. Is it better to fix the brackets to the studs but have them spaced unevenly across the bench, or place them evenly on the bench (e.g. at 200mm and 600mm) but have them not on studs (in which case I was thinking I would use GripIt 50kg Plasterboard anchors - they'll show up under the brackets but only if anyone looks closely)? I've attached a picture for reference. The bench is intended to sit pretty much flush against the side of the sink with about 70mm of clearance being left on the right for the door. The stud positions are marked.

What would the best practice be in this situation?

Thanks in advance for the help.

Angus.

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Noyade

Hi @WilliamDeBanjo

Somewhat similar situation. I purchased a folding shelf from Bunnings a few years back. Quite heavy - 900mm X 600 mm X 30 mm.

I positioned one side on a stud and the other with rawlplugs. The hinges provided six fastening areas each.

I found with the right sized holes drilled in the gyprock, such that the plugs needed to be tapped into place with a hammer, the hinge was well secured.

Cheers.

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @WilliamDeBanjo. It's great to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about installing a bench.

It's great to see that @Noyade has provided some first-hand experience. Given the bracket has six fixing locations, you should be fine having one side attached to the plaster. I would encourage you to try and have at least one side into a stud. Spring toggles are quite effective in plaster, holding up to 10Kg per toggle.

If you bench extends right across to the door, I thought I'd mention that you should be able to locate another stud on the far right, which might give you another solid fixing location.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

WilliamDeBanjo

Thanks @MitchellMc and @Noyade for your advice, great to have some first hand experience.

In that case I will fix the left side to the stud and the right side to the plaster. My only concern would be the brackets will therefore be about 700mm apart, should I be worried about the bench sagging between the brackets over time or will I be fine with merbau?

MitchellMc

I wouldn't be concerned @WilliamDeBanjo. I don't believe it will sag over 700mm.

Mitchell

WilliamDeBanjo

Thanks again @MitchellMc and @Noyade, I finally got around to putting it all together and I'm very happy with the outcome. Easy to use and fits really well behind the door and under the door handle.

JacobZ

Nice work @WilliamDeBanjo!

Those Carinya 300 x 145mm White Folding Spring Loaded Brackets have done a fantastic job turning a previously unusable space into a usable working space.

You should be proud of your efforts; it looks great.

Jacob

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