Having faced the discomfort of spending prolonged hours at my desk, I understand the significance of optimizing one’s workspace for better ergonomics. Realizing that a well-designed setup could alleviate my neck and back pain motivated me to explore practical solutions.
Through my experience and expertise in woodworking, I identified eight straightforward methods that can elevate your desk and transform your work environment. If you want to improve your posture and increase your productivity, here’s a detailed walkthrough guide of the ways to raise your desk!
What’s the Ideal Desk Height?
According to research, the ideal desk height is usually around 29-30 inches for a standard desk and around 36 inches for a standing desk. However, the ideal height can vary based on individual preferences and physical characteristics such as height, arm length, and the type of task being performed.
Personally, I adjusted my desk leg to a height where I can maintain a comfortable posture. It’s all about making sure my elbows are at a 90-degree angle and my hands are at or just slightly below the level of my keyboard.
Elevating Your Desk’s Height: 8 Methods
One option to make your desk taller is to use furniture risers. However, this is only a temporary solution.
A more permanent solution to raise the height of a table is to attach four wooden blocks or one bun foot of equal height to the bottom of the table legs with hanger bolts or screws.
This will raise the table and improve posture, reducing strain on the back and neck. Additionally, you can try several other methods to achieve the right desktop height.
Now, let’s dive deeper into these other options.
Method #1: Raise Table Height Using Furniture Risers
A furniture riser may be the way to go if you are searching for a cost-effective and convenient solution to raise your desk.
These risers are compact additions that enable you to raise the height of your reading desk or other furniture while maintaining its original design and structure.
These blocks can be made of plastic, metal, or wood. Wood is the most commonly used material. They are designed to support the legs of a table or desk and can be purchased from local home improvement stores or online through Amazon.
To utilize furniture risers, place them under each leg of the table until your ideal height is achieved. Most risers have slots that accommodate different leg sizes, allowing for a height-adjustable desk, and multiple risers can be stacked under each desk leg if needed.
However, it’s crucial to consult with the label about how many risers should be stacked before stacking many risers under your computer desk to ensure the added height is safe and will not cause damage.
How To Use Furniture Risers
Raising a desk with risers is a simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
- Determine the dimensions of your current desk legs.
- Determine your appropriate desk height while seated at your desk.
- Choose the right size for your desk legs using these measurements. These risers for desks are typically sold in sets of four pieces from your selected manufacturer.
- After placing the risers, insert one below each leg sequentially until all legs have been adjusted. Your desk will now be at the correct height for work.
Method #2: Replace Current Table Legs with Taller Ones
If you’re looking for a permanent solution for your table and don’t like the existing legs, you can replace them with taller ones to make your desk taller. Depending on your DIY skills and preferences, you can either purchase pre-made alternatives or make your own.
How to Do It
Before making a permanent change to the four legs of your table by replacing them with taller legs, make sure to make the change as appealing as possible.
- Identify the type of legs you want for your desk. If you opt for wooden tables, make sure to select the appropriate wood for the leg of the desktop.
- Determine the right desk height that can provide comfort by testing the height of your existing desk and taking note of the measurements.
- Purchase desktop legs based on those measurements.
- Remove the existing legs and replace them with new legs as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Another option to consider is adjustable legs and a mounting plate that can be quickly attached and fixed in place with screws.
- For more customization, consider designing and building the legs yourself if you have woodworking skills.
Changing the Old Legs into Standing Desk Legs
Here are the steps to make your desk taller by changing its old legs with standing desk legs:
- Measure the height of your desk and the height you want to raise it to. This will help you determine the size of the new legs you need to purchase.
- Purchase the standing desk legs that match the desk height you need, taking into consideration the load capacity and stability of the legs.
- Remove the old legs from the top of the desk. Save the screws for later use.
- Align the holes on the new legs with the holes on the top of the desk. Use the screws you saved to attach the new legs securely.
- If the legs come with adjustable height, you can easily adjust the height of the desk to your preferred level.
- Put the desk back together by reattaching any components that were removed, such as drawers, wooden pieces, or shelves.
Method #3: Use Bun Feet to Raise Your Desk’s Height
These are typically crafted from wood and round objects. They come in various sizes and can add four to three few inches to the height of a desk, making them a suitable option for those planning to make a desk taller.
If you’re aiming for a higher desk, I recommend using bun feet of up to 10 inches in height, which will provide you a semi-permanent height solution for height adjustment.
The installation of these feet involves creating holes in the bottom of the desk, but they can be easily taken off and reinstalled as needed.
There is also no limit to how many times these feet can be removed and reinstalled on a desk, making them a versatile solution for adjusting the height of the furniture.
How to Do It
If you want to know how to raise a desk using bun feet in detail, follow these steps:
1. Determine the correct height (bun feet can add four up to 10 inches).
2. Buy a package of four bun feet either at a nearby hardware store or online
3. Drill holes under each leg with a diameter of 0.25 to 1.25 inches (as specified by the bun feet).
4. Attach the bun feet into the holes after drilling, ensuring they are securely in place.
5. Optionally, refinish the entire desk in your preferred way or paint the feet to suit the current desk.
Bun feet and risers both add extra height to desks. However, bun feet are a better option for desks that are frequently moved. This is because they are fixed to the table legs and can be lifted along with the table.
Risers, on the other hand, just sit beneath the feet and can come loose if the desk is lifted or relocated. That said, I advise using bun feet for lighter tables that are often moved and risers for heavier desks that remain stationary.
Method #4: Use Wooden Extensions
Wood extensions are primarily used to stabilize wobbly desks after adding height through the use of bun feet or risers. However, improper installation can result in instability and wobbliness of the desk.
To rectify this, you can adjust the bun feet or risers or add a wooden extension to restore stability.
Wood extensions are a popular choice, as they can be used to level office furniture and tables. They come in various sizes, ranging from small wood pieces to large blocks, so choose the size that best fits your needs.
The extension can be attached to the legs of the desk, elevating its height and offering a manual method to increase desk height.
How to Do It
1. To begin, collect small wood pieces either from your workshop, if available, or from a local hardware store.
2. When choosing a wooden extension, make sure it matches your desk leg’s width. Consider using the same type of wood same with your wooden furniture for a cohesive look.
3. Flip the desk upside and mark each leg’s center. This is the location where you will drill and create holes using an electric drill.
4. Create holes in the bottom of each leg where you plan to fix the wooden extensions. The holes must be roughly 0.25 inches in diameter.
5. Using hanger bolts, attach the wood extension to the legs, then tighten the bolts with a screwdriver to make sure they are securely fastened.
(But how do you screw into the wood without using a drill? Here’s how!)
Method #5: Use a Desk Converter
If you’re not comfortable using tools manually, you can opt for a desk converter as a way to change your work area without making any physical modifications to your desk.
The converter is placed on your existing desk and can be adjusted to different heights using its touch controller.
This allows you to switch between a standing and a sitting position while working, promoting better health and balance. In addition, the movable platform can be set to any height.
Additionally, you can select from a range of height adjustments, ranging from 4.5 to 20 inches, making them suitable for both laptops and standard desktop computers.
Desk converters are smaller and more affordable compared to traditional desks. While these converters may be more costly than bun feet, desk risers, and wood extensions, they offer a unique solution for transforming your workstation.
How to Use the Desk Converter
Here’s how to raise a desk using converters:
- Choose suitable desk converters for your desk, taking into consideration their size, weight capacity, and adjustability range.
- Place it on top of your desktop.
- Use the controller to adjust the platform height to the most comfortable adjustments for your shoulders and back.
You can also refer to the instructions provided with the converter for proper installation and usage on your existing desktop.
Method #6: Make Your Table Taller Using an Adjustable Office Chair
If your desk is of standard size, you can adjust the height of your office chair to match it. If you feel like the desk is too short, lowering the adjustable chair can provide more height. There are various sizes and designs of adjustable office chairs to choose from to ensure comfort.
Here are the steps to make a table or desk taller using an adjustable office chair:
- Find an adjustable office chair that can be raised to a height similar to the desired table height.
- Locate the gas lift mechanism or lever under the seat of the chair.
- Raise or lower the chair’s seat to the desired height using the gas lift mechanism or lever.
- Place the chair at the side of the table and ensure it is stable.
Note: It is important to ensure the stability and safety of the chair height and table before using it in this manner. The chair should be sturdy enough to support your weight, and the table should be secure and stable to avoid any accidents.
Method #7: Modify the Table Top to Elevate its Height
One way to resolve the problem of the height of a desk or table is to add a layer of material on top of the desktop to increase its height. This layer can be made from wood, marble, or plastic, providing permanent solutions to raise the height.
However, attaching the material correctly and seamlessly requires technical carpentry skills [1]. Also, the material can be attached using a reliable wood glue or other suitable methods.
Ensure that the new material is the same length and width as the original desktop to cover it completely.
Here are the steps to modify the table top to elevate its height:
- Measure the proper height of the table and mark the appropriate measurement on the legs of the table.
- Purchase wood blocks or wooden legs that can be attached to the bottom of the table legs to increase the height of the table.
- Sand the surface of the wood blocks or legs to make them smooth and free of any rough edges.
- Apply wood glue to the bottom of the blocks or legs and attach them to the bottom of the table legs, aligning them with the marks you made in step 1.
- Clamp the blocks or legs to the table legs and let the glue dry completely. If you’re wondering how long does wood glue take to dry, it depends on the thickness and the type of glue you apply.
Install Castor Wheels
To install casters wheels on a desk, follow these steps:
- Gather the necessary tools: You will need a drill, screws, screwdriver, and casters.
- Determine the placement of the casters: Decide where you want to place the casters on the furniture. Make sure they are evenly spaced and will provide stable support.
- Mark the placement: Use a pencil to mark the placement of the casters on the furniture.
- Pre-drill holes: Using a drill, make pilot holes where you marked the placement of the casters. This will make it easier to screw in the casters.
- Attach the casters: Place the casters on the furniture and use screws to secure them in place. Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws.
- Test the furniture: Once all the casters are attached, test the heavy furniture to make sure it rolls smoothly and is stable.
- Adjust as needed: If the furniture is not level, adjust the casters until it is stable.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the proper screws for your furniture and casters.
My Top Pick for a Desk Riser: Utopia Bedding Adjustable Bed Furniture Risers
If you’re opting for a desk riser, I recommend the Utopia Bedding Adjustable Bed Furniture Risers. This set of desk risers is a great solution for increasing the height of your desk. They are made from durable plastic and can easily handle up to 1300 pounds. The broad base design provides stability for your desk and additional support.
You can choose from three height options – 3 inches, 5 inches, or a combination of both – to raise the desktop height by a maximum of 8 inches. Ultimately, these risers are suitable for heavy desktops with high-quality wooden tops.
Make Your DIY Desk Risers
If you’re planning to take the DIY route, there are several methods you can do to make your own table feet extenders or desk risers. One way is to take wood boards, split them to the appropriate size, and then pile them each other until the wanted height is reached.
Another solution is to stack cinder blocks or bricks until the desired height is reached.
If you want a solution that permanently raises your desk, you can attach cinder blocks or wooden boards to the legs using L-brackets to provide the flexibility to adjust the height as needed.
Regardless of the chosen method, it is important to ensure that the desktop leg is stable and sturdy before fixing any material.
Tips For Elevating Your Desk’s Height
The right desk height is subjective and varies based on several factors, such as height, tasks performed, tools used, and health conditions. To determine the right height, consider your height and tasks, then factor in the tools you use and any health issues.
When positioning yourself at the desk, it is important to maintain a natural bend in your elbows, around 70 to 130 degrees, depending on the height of your standing desk.
This helps prevent hand strain when using a computer or laptop. If you need to increase the desk height for writing, you can use a book or desk extenders.
If your elbows are not at the right angle, make adjustments by lowering the keyboard. I suggest a sweeping curve of around 130 degrees to keep the desk height lower.
If you can’t adjust the desk height, invest in ergonomic chairs with adjustable legs or an under-desk bike to promote circulation.
You can purchase a sit-stand desk which is ideal for reducing injuries and cramped muscles while working, but if it’s not feasible, consider making your desk taller with DIY solutions.
What are the Necessary Tools You’ll Need to Make a Desk Taller?
To implement the solutions to craft an ergonomic desk or raise desk height discussed in the article, you will require some basic tools to make holes and secure attachments, such as:
- Screws or screwdriver
- Drill
- Handsaw (if adding a wood extension).
- Tape measure or level (to ensure the legs are level)
Making Your DIY Height Adjustable Desk
Here are some of my tips for making a DIY height-adjustable desk:
- Determine the desk size: Measure the space where you want to place your desk and determine the ideal size for the desktop. You can choose from a variety of sizes, including standard dimensions or custom sizes to fit your needs.
- Choose the right material: Your desktop can be made of a variety of materials, including wood, glass, or metal. You may also want to consider the weight capacity, durability, and ease of cleaning when selecting your material.
- Select the right height-adjustable mechanism: There are several options for height adjustment, including electric motors, hand cranks, and pneumatic systems. Consider the cost, ease of use, and durability when choosing your mechanism.
- Assemble the desktop: Once you have all the materials and components, you can start assembling the desktop. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and use the proper tools to ensure a secure and stable assembly.
- Install the height adjustment mechanism: Attach the height adjustment mechanism to the desktop, making sure to secure it firmly. If you are using an electric motor, you may need to run electrical wiring to a power source.
- Add accessories: Consider adding additional features such as cable management systems, a desk organizer, storage drawers, or a keyboard tray to enhance your desk.
- Test the desk: Once you have completed the assembly, test the height adjustment mechanism to make sure it is working properly. Make any necessary adjustments before using the desk for the first time.
Remember to always follow safety guidelines and use the proper tools when working on your DIY project. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the project, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional.
FAQ
How do I make an IKEA desk taller?
To make an IKEA desk taller, you can add layers of plastic, marble, or wood to the desktop and secure it with wood glue or brackets.
Another option to make a desk taller is to stack cinder blocks or bricks under the desk legs. Ensure the desk remains sturdy and stable before making any additions.
What do I do if my desk is too low?
If your desk is too low, you can purchase desk risers or wooden blocks to increase the height. Attach them to the bottom of the desk legs using wood glue and clamps. You can also use adjustable-height furniture like an ergonomic chair or a sit-stand desk to make a desk taller.
Is it okay to place my desk on the risers?
Risers are a cost-effective solution for raising desk height. It can also provide additional storage space underneath. Moreover, it can potentially improve ergonomics by allowing you to adjust the height of your workstation.
You can purchase them at your local furniture stores or online retailers such as Amazon. Make sure to measure the size of the desk leg to find the appropriate set of risers.
How can I raise my desk 3 inches taller?
To increase the height of a desk by 3 inches, install risers that are three inches tall. Since risers are available in adjustable sets ranging from 4 to 8 inches, you can pick the right size, modify it to suit your needs, and create a taller desk.
How do I make my coffee table higher?
Install elevating options such as feet, permanent lift, or wood extensions to raise your coffee table height, or change all the legs to the suitable height. These are the common ways to adjust the height of a coffee desk permanently and temporarily.
Conclusion
As I outlined in this guide, there are several ways to raise a table or desk’s height, ranging from simple and cost-effective solutions to more permanent solutions.
Whether you’re looking for a temporary fix or a long-term solution, one of these methods of raising a desk can help you achieve a comfortable and ergonomic working or living space.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
