How do I calculate the ideal spacing for workbench upgrades in my base?

Calculating the ideal spacing for workbench upgrades in Valheim is essential for efficient base building and crafting. Workbenches are the cornerstone of crafting, allowing you to repair, upgrade, and create items. However, their functionality is limited by their range, which is approximately 20 meters in diameter. This means you need to strategically place workbenches and their upgrades to ensure full coverage across your base.\n\nTo begin, understand that workbench upgrades (such as the chopping block, tanning rack, and adze) extend the workbench''s capabilities but do not increase its range. Each upgrade must be placed within 2 meters of the workbench to function. This means you need to plan your base layout carefully to avoid overlapping ranges or gaps in coverage. Start by placing your first workbench in a central location, then measure 20 meters outward to determine its effective area.\n\nA practical way to measure spacing is by using the in-game building grid. Each floor tile is 2 meters wide, so 10 tiles equal 20 meters. This makes it easy to calculate distances without needing external tools. For example, if your base is 40 meters long, you’ll need at least two workbenches spaced 20 meters apart to cover the entire area. Place upgrades like the chopping block and tanning rack near each workbench to maximize efficiency.\n\nCommon challenges include uneven terrain and large structures blocking the workbench''s range. In mountainous biomes or areas with steep slopes, you may need to adjust the placement of workbenches to ensure they cover all levels of your base. Additionally, walls and roofs can obstruct the workbench''s range, so avoid placing them too close to these structures. If you encounter gaps in coverage, consider adding a third workbench in a strategic location.\n\nFor larger bases, such as those in the Plains biome, you may need multiple workbenches with overlapping ranges. This ensures that every corner of your base is covered, even if you expand later. Use the building grid to plan your layout in advance, and mark the edges of each workbench''s range with temporary structures like wooden beams. This visual guide will help you avoid mistakes during construction.\n\nFinally, remember that workbenches and their upgrades require specific materials. For example, the chopping block requires 10 wood and 10 flint, while the tanning rack requires 15 wood, 10 flint, and 20 leather scraps. Gather these resources in advance to avoid delays. By carefully planning your workbench placement and upgrades, you can create a highly efficient base that supports all your crafting needs.\n\nPractical tips: Always test the workbench''s range by attempting to craft or repair items in different areas of your base. If you encounter issues, adjust the placement of your workbenches or upgrades. Additionally, consider building a dedicated crafting area with multiple workbenches and upgrades to streamline your workflow. This approach is especially useful in late-game scenarios where crafting efficiency becomes critical.