Is a Breadboard Necessary on an Outdoor Table Top

[gisselletdean]

I'm almost at the point where I will be attaching a roughly 30x50 sapele table top to a grill cart that will live outside. The top was made out of 3 8/4 boards that were edge glued with dominos. I know on previous TWW episodes Marc made the claim that breadboards were overkill. He just put a video out, however, saying they are probably necessary for outdoor furniture. If I don't put breadboards on this, is there a good chance I will have serious issues with cupping and twisting? I don't mind putting the extra work in if it eliminates problems down the line. I also haven't made breadboards before, so I'm not sure how long it will take to figure this out. I do see some stuff online with people making breadboards using a domino. Would these domino breadboards be as strong as a traditional one?

[DaneShayd]

I favor breadboards but it may just be a habitual aesthetic thing for me.

[JasonByrne]

If you're worried about movement on an outdoor table, a breadboard end can help, but it's not the only option. Proper wood selection and joinery matter just as much. Choosing weather-resistant wood like teak or ipe and using good finishing techniques can make a big difference. I’ve seen some great examples at this url where outdoor tables hold up well even without breadboards due to quality materials and construction.