How to Construct Patio Tables

Cut four table legs of 28 inches from the 2-by-4 lumber, two side apron planks measuring 37 inches and planks measuring 33 inches for the end table aprons. Cut a 24-½ inch plank for a central table support.

Measure in 4 inches from the end of each end apron and use the router to make a housing 1/2 inch deep and 1-1/2 inches wide.

Lay two legs, 2-inch side down, onto the work surface and fit an end apron over them. The legs will fit into the housings, and the apron should be flush with one end of the legs. Drive two wood screws through the legs into the housing on the apron to secure the legs in place. Repeat with the remaining legs on the other end apron.

Position the legs upright with the aprons out. Slot the side aprons in between the legs, the top of the side aprons flush with the leg tops and the end aprons. Drive four screws through the side apron ends and into the table legs.

Insert the central support plank across the middle of the table frame, end abutting the side aprons. Drive two screws through the side of the side aprons into the ends of the support plank.

Cut the decking into six pieces measuring 48 inches. Place the decking over the table top frame, parallel with the side aprons. There should be 1/4 inch gap between planks, with all the decking ends flush, a 2 inch overhang on each side, and a 6 inch overhang on the ends.

Drive two deck screws through each end of the decking slats into the end apron and the central support plank. Paint or varnish the patio table and leave it to cure for three days before placing on the patio.