Whether your establishment is a family-friendly burger joint or a high-end vegan cafe, the table tops you choose to make all the difference in creating an aesthetic that appeals to your target audience.
Commercial-grade wood table tops offer a classic look and are resistant to heat, moisture damage, and scratches. They work well with all decor styles.
Material
When selecting a new tabletop, deciding the material it will be made out of is important. This will be based on the style of look you are going for and your budget. Custom bar table tops can be made from various materials, including solid wood, stone, and stainless steel. Additionally, some tables have a laminated surface, which can be affordable and still offer the same durability as solid wood or stone.
The shape of the table is another factor that should be considered. Squares and rectangles are very popular, but many different shapes exist. For example, some operators use round table tops to create an inviting and comfortable atmosphere. Round table tops can also break up a room and make it easier for patrons to interact.
Finally, the thickness of the tabletop should be considered. It should be big enough to support the table’s weight and look proportional to the base. For instance, a thicker table top must be supported by a larger base than a thinner one.
For indoor table tops, a good option is molded melamine. It is a durable surface that is scratch and impact-resistant. It is also heat and stain-resistant, making it a great choice for food service environments.
Shape
Table tops come in a variety of shapes. You should look at the space you are installing them in and see what shape might be best for the area. This is an important step because the shape of the top can affect how easy it is to interact with your patrons and how much room they have for conversation and movement around the table.
When deciding on the shape of your tops, you must also select the right base. The size and weight of the bases should be considered based on the table’s overall appearance and how it will work with the other pieces of furniture you have in your restaurant. Heavier tables may look better but can be difficult to move when rearranging seating for larger parties or events.
Durability
Durability is the ability to endure the rigors of daily use. Restaurant owners must consider the amount of foot traffic their tables will be subjected to when determining what type of tabletop material is right for their establishment. Table tops that are scratch-, heat- and stain-resistant will provide the greatest durability. Laminates are a great option for table surfaces that will experience high traffic volumes because they are designed to mimic the appearance of wood, stone, or a uniform solid color. They are also more affordable than most solid wood and stone table tops.
Stainless steel is another material that offers a durable surface. It is perfect for bar areas where hot dishes are regularly placed on the tables because it is heat and scratch-resistant. It is easy to clean and can be shaped into designs for aesthetic purposes.
Copper table tops are more durable than most other materials because they are natural elements. They require no chemical-based manufacturing process and can last decades without diminishing quality or strength. They are also environmentally friendly as they can be recycled and reused. They are available in many finishes and can be shaped into different shapes to create unique and custom table tops. They can even be hammered by hand to form the ideal shape for your space.
Maintenance
Whether they’re made of wood or laminate, custom table tops require routine maintenance to keep them in their best condition. Depending on the material, this may involve daily dusting with a microfiber cloth or a mild soap solution. Spills should be wiped up immediately since water on any material can cause irreversible damage over time. Avoid cleaning these tables with abrasive cleaners or sanitizers, as they can damage the surface.
Laminate and Formica’s tops are particularly forgiving towards water. A quick clean with a damp sponge or cloth and a dollop of mild soap is all that’s needed for most of them. A bit of baking soda mixed with water works wonders for more stubborn stains. However, there are more suitable options for metal or stone tables. Those can be cleaned with window cleaner or plain white vinegar, a non-abrasive way to remove tough stains.
Depending on the tabletop, a small amount of acetone may be used to remove stubborn stains from epoxy resin tables. Additionally, to help prevent future issues with the finish, a car buffer or toothbrush may be used to buff away any deep scratches. A Magic Eraser can often work wonders if a tabletop is stained with food or drinks.