Workshop Layout Calculator — Space Planning

For general (non-full-sheet) hobby work, allow roughly 2.5m × 3m of clear space — that is the ~0.8m saw footprint plus about 1m side clearance and 1.2m of infeed/outfeed for short stock. Ripping a full 2440mm (8ft) sheet is different: you need the sheet to pass completely through the blade, so plan for about 2.44m of infeed PLUS 2.44m of outfeed plus the saw table — roughly 5.5–6m of total run length, and about 1.5m of side clearance. Never stand directly behind the blade while ripping (OSHA woodworking guidance).

A UK single garage has an internal floor area of roughly 13–15m² (about 2.55m × 5.2m typical, 3m × 5m recommended minimum) — enough for a table saw and workbench. A double garage of about 28–36m² (5.5m × 5m up to a standard 6m × 6m) allows several machines. Ideally allow 20–30m² for a well-equipped hobby workshop.

Place the table saw centrally with the most clearance. Position machines so infeed and outfeed paths do not cross. Keep the workbench near natural light. Place dust collection centrally to minimise duct runs.