How to Install C-Channels

Join Vic Tesolin as he walks us through what a C-Channel is and how to install them.
This simple bit of metal hardware is a great way to help keep wide surfaces flat over the years. The secret behind this hardware’s success are the rolled corners. These corners, combined with the thickness of the steel, provide ample strength to help hold things flat. Elongated holes along the length allow the hardware to be secured to the wood while still allowing for the all-important movement that is going to occur.
Installation of the C-channel is simple. It involves routing two parallel dados across the width of the underside of the tabletop. You will need a minimum of two C-channels and perhaps more depending on the length of your piece. These dados should be about 25mm longer than the length of the hardware, again to allow for the wood to move. The C-channel should be secured by installing threaded inserts and machine-thread screws or bolts. The Rampa 1/4-20 inserts are a great choice because of their strength and ease of installation.
Shop C-Channels:
kjpselecthardw...
Follow Vic Tesolin:
www.victesolin...

[@PatLap]

I’m planning to buy a large slab there soon. I’m gonna use the same technique. 😌👍🏼

[@ROL332]

I want to reinforce a support beam i will be drilling a 3 in hole in for a stove pipe. I keep reading about round C channels instead of sistering. i cant find them. Can youhelp

[@d.k.1394]

Great

[@kbob4280]

enjoyed your video. Im building a 4'x12' island top using 2x8 framing lumber. I plan to use kreg screws and glue to join the boards. One end of the table will overhang by approx 1'. Do I need to add a C-channel to the ends, especially the overhanging end?

[@sandru121]

Hello,
I would like to know what dimensions it is recommended to have the part that goes into the wood depending on the thickness of the table top? For example, with a 4 cm table top, which model of C Channels should I use?
Thank you and I await your answer!

[@happyhoildays2010]

Can I use this if I’m building a computer desk using a ikea counter too with Alexa’s draws

[@d.k.1394]

I think so

[@hrayrohanyan4498]

Hello, thank you for video. i have made tabel top (oak) 40inch wide and 80 long, and thikness is 1.5 inch. Dray wood about 8%. Is it crucial to use C channels? And is there any other option to chose instaed of C channel and braedbord to keep tabel top stable. Thank tou in advance

[@abeaulieu69]

I'd like to know what is the red marker (yellow mark) you were using in the video please.

[@kjpselecthardwoodsonline]

We are currently sold out, but it is a Hultafors Dry Marker with yellow chalk - kjpselecthardwoods.com/collections/hultafors/products/drymarkerhdm

[@Pattington22]

Quick question (and let me know if I should just reach out to KJP instead): my epoxy River coffee table made at a KJP workshop has cupped. Could I add c-channel now to help bring it back to flat, or should I take to a CNC or flattening mill to flatten out the cup and then add the c-channel?

[@kjpselecthardwoodsonline]

Thanks for reaching out to us about this. It will be easier to chat over email, so please send this message along to [e-mail]

[@nicolekelly8449]

Hello, I bought some C-channels that are 3/16” thick and the sides are 3/4” deep. I can’t find a router bit that goes that deep in the 3/16” dia. What would you suggest I use?

[@kjpselecthardwoodsonline]

You don't need to get the exact diameter. It won't matter if the bit is wider.

[@simonmathieu5202]

Bonjour quelle est la sorte de mèche de toupie utilisez vous?

[@kjpselecthardwoodsonline]

It was a 1/4" straight bit

[@candylikeno.1867]

Why do it have to be oval holes in the C-Channel?

[@kjpselecthardwoodsonline]

This allows for the expansion and contraction

[@candylikeno.1867]

@@kjpselecthardwoodsonline Thanks for your reply.