A live-edge slab gives a table character no factory top can match, but picking the right one takes a little planning. Use this practical guide to match a slab to your table’s size, style, and long-term needs—so the finished piece feels deliberate, solid, and built to last.
1. Start with purpose and dimensions
Decide how you’ll use the table and where it will sit. That determines the slab size.
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Dining table: allow 24–30 in (60–75 cm) per person at the ends; 30–36 in (76–90 cm) depth is common.
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Coffee table: 16–18 in (40–46 cm) height; length and width depend on sofa placement.
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Console or desk: match height to chairs and intended use; leave 12–18 in (30–45 cm) clearance behind chairs.
Measure the room and note doorways or stairs—can the slab be moved in, or will it need milling into smaller pieces first?
2. Choose a species that fits the look and use
Different species offer different color, grain, hardness, and stability.
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Hardwoods (walnut, maple, oak): durable and wear-resistant; good for dining tables and high-use pieces.
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Soft hardwoods (cherry, poplar): warm color and good workability; may dent more easily.
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Reclaimed urban species: often show unique character—nails, knots, and irregular grain—that suit rustic or one-of-a-kind pieces.
Pick a species for both appearance and performance. If you need heavy use resistance, lean toward denser woods.
3. Check moisture content and drying method
Movement after installation causes most problems. Ask about moisture content:
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Stable slabs for furniture are typically 6–10% MC for indoor use.
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Kiln-dried slabs are more stable than air-dried, but both work if properly checked.
Avoid slabs with wide MC variation across the board. If you’re in a humid or dry climate, plan for seasonal movement.
4. Read the slab’s character honestly
Live edge is about the natural shape. Look for features that add value—and ones that add work.
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Positive: attractive grain patterns, consistent live edge, small natural voids that can be filled with resin or left as character.
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Watch for: deep checks (long end-to-end cracks), large voids that affect strength, extensive rot, or embedded metal you’ll need to remove.
Small bark inclusions and mineral streaks add personality. Large structural defects mean extra work or reinforcement.
5. Plan for flattening and joinery
Think about how you want the top finished.
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Will you surface the slab full-width, or glue multiple slabs together?
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Do you want the live edge left natural or trimmed?
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Consider reinforcement: bowtie inlays, splines, or steel flats for long spans.
Ask your miller or fabricator about cupping and twist tendencies for the chosen slab size.
6. Consider matching and symmetry
If you need a wider top, you might book match two slabs or edge-join boards.
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Book matching creates mirrored grain and a pleasing center seam.
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For consistent thickness and color, pick slabs from the same tree or batch when possible.
For one-piece character, choose a single wide slab; for stability, several narrower pieces can be preferable.
7. Think about finish and maintenance
The finish affects color, feel, and maintenance.
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Oil finishes penetrate and highlight grain; they require periodic reapplication.
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Film finishes (polyurethane, conversion varnish) protect against spills and wear.
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Leave raw edges unfinished for a natural look, or seal them to slow moisture exchange.
Match finish choice to the table’s intended use and the owner’s willingness to maintain it.
8. Budget and timeline
Live-edge slabs vary widely in price depending on species, size, and character. Allow extra for milling, flattening, and defect repairs. Slabs that need heavy stabilization or finishing will add time and cost.
Quick buying checklist
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Intended table size and room access measured
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Preferred species and look noted
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Moisture content confirmed (aim 6–10% indoors)
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Major defects inspected (checks, rot, embedded metal)
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Plan for flattening, joinery, and finish
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Budget for milling and possible repairs
If you’re unsure, bring photos, rough dimensions, and where the table will go. A good slab feels right in scale, has character you like, and won’t require a rebuild to make it stable.
Questions about slabs or how to prep one for a table? Send measurements and photos—we’re glad to talk through options and practical next steps.
— Urban Wood Company