You’ve decided you want a new table. Now, where to get it? You’re not interested in big-box store junk, you want something unique. Etsy is tempting you with low prices and promises of free delivery but you know better. Before you decide, here’s some info about how our tables are priced and the main factors that affect all makers.
Table Pricing Breakdown
Pricing for your new table can be a bit complicated to someone who doesn’t make tables all day. The biggest factor that determines the price centers around the wood you select for the project. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors that affect the table pricing.
- Material Availability: Dimensional lumber is readily available and produced in standardized sizes. That makes it more accessible and affordable. On the other hand, live edge slabs are cut from the natural shape of a tree and can be limited in availability, especially for specific species or large sizes. Limited supply and higher demand for live edge slabs can drive up their cost.
- Processing and Manufacturing: Dimensional lumber undergoes industrial processing, including cutting, planing, and shaping to achieve consistent sizes and smooth surfaces. This standardized manufacturing process makes it more cost-effective compared to live edge slabs. Live edge slabs require more specialized handling and may involve unique cutting and finishing processes
- Aesthetics and Rarity: Live edge slabs are valued for their unique and natural beauty. The characteristic live edges and distinctive grain patterns can add significant aesthetic appeal to the finished table. This aesthetic value, along with the rarity of certain wood species or slab sizes, contributes to the higher cost of live edge tables compared to tables made from dimensional lumber.
- Size and Thickness: Live edge slabs are often thicker and wider than standard dimensional lumber. This means they require larger trees and more time to air dry properly. The extra material and time involved in sourcing, drying, and handling larger slabs can raise their overall cost.
- Craftsmanship and Labor: Crafting live edge tables is more labor-intensive compared to a table made from dimensional lumber. Achieving a seamless and natural look while preserving the live edge requires skilled craftsmanship and meticulous detailing. This craftsmanship increases the labor and cost.
- Environmental Factors: Sustainability and eco-friendliness are important considerations for consumers. Live edge slabs, especially those sourced from reclaimed or salvaged trees, may carry a premium due to their environmental benefits and unique story behind the wood
Cost Examples
As a cost example, a dimensional walnut table 84×36 (10 seater table) may cost around $3500. Contrast that with a single slab walnut table of the same size would cost about double. The rarity of a 3′ wide walnut tree to make a dining table would increase the table pricing cost significantly.
If you wanted a wood type that was more affordable we might suggest Ash. And a dimensional table made with Ash 84×36 may cost around $2500 and there would likely not be a single slab option available for that type of wood because those trees generally don’t grow in that manner. You can see how the wood used can be the main driver.
Please contact us today to discuss your table options and let us know what we can build for you! Read more about our Custom Tables here.