How do I calculate the optimal distance between workbenches for building?

In Valheim, workbenches are essential for building and repairing structures, but their range is limited. Understanding how to calculate the optimal distance between workbenches is crucial for efficient construction, especially in large builds or sprawling settlements. Workbenches have a circular radius of 20 meters, and you must ensure that every part of your structure is within this range to allow building and repairs. If you step outside this range, you''ll notice the ''No workbench nearby'' message, preventing further construction.\n\nTo calculate the optimal distance between workbenches, start by placing your first workbench at the center of your build area. Use the hammer tool to visualize the workbench''s range by attempting to build or repair structures at the edges. The range is roughly 20 meters in all directions, so you can use this as a guide. For large builds, you''ll need to place additional workbenches strategically to ensure full coverage. A good rule of thumb is to space workbenches approximately 40 meters apart, as this allows their ranges to overlap slightly without leaving gaps.\n\nOne practical method to measure distances is by using the in-game grid system. When placing floor tiles, each tile is 2 meters long, so counting 10 tiles from the center of one workbench will give you the 20-meter radius. Alternatively, you can use the Hoe tool to flatten terrain and create markers at 20-meter intervals. This method is particularly useful in open biomes like the Meadows or Plains, where terrain is easier to manipulate.\n\nIn more challenging biomes like the Black Forest or Mountains, terrain obstacles can complicate workbench placement. In these cases, consider building elevated platforms or using stairs to position workbenches at higher or lower levels. This ensures their range covers the entire build area, even in uneven terrain. Additionally, you can use the Hoe to level the ground around your workbenches, making placement easier and more precise.\n\nA common challenge players face is overlapping workbench ranges, which can lead to wasted resources or inefficient builds. To avoid this, always test the range of each workbench before finalizing its placement. Use temporary structures like wooden beams or walls to mark the edges of the range, ensuring there are no gaps or overlaps. This method is especially useful when building large structures like castles or long bridges.\n\nFor experienced players, combining workbenches with other crafting stations like forges or stonecutters can optimize space and resources. These stations also have their own ranges, so plan their placement carefully to avoid conflicts. In multiplayer servers, coordinate with other players to ensure workbenches are evenly distributed across shared builds, preventing bottlenecks and ensuring everyone can contribute.\n\nFinally, always carry extra materials like wood and stone when placing workbenches, as you may need to adjust their positions during construction. Keep in mind that workbenches can be destroyed and rebuilt without losing resources, so don''t hesitate to experiment with placement until you find the optimal setup. By following these steps, you can ensure your builds are efficient, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, no matter the biome or scale of your project.