Glass surfaces bring a timeless appeal to living spaces, making them a sought-after addition to any home. They’re easier to clean and maintain than other materials, such as wood and wrought iron. Transparent glass tabletops protect the table’s surface from spills or scratches without hiding the beauty of the wood- or metal-work.
If you’re looking for a custom glass tabletop for your living, dining or bedroom, be sure to invest in one that is suitable for you and your home. Here are some factors to consider.
Custom Glass Tabletops: 5 Important Things to Know
Q1. Why choose a custom glass tabletop?
Glass tabletops are stylish, durable and can be incorporated easily into any table design. They’re made from a gel-like material whose versatility allows them to be combined with a varying range of table materials such as wood, metal and ceramics. This material can be manufactured to reflect natural and artificial lighting, making your space appear brighter. It’s also rigid and dense, making it resistant to abuse.
Q2. What are the different types of glass used in tabletops?
There are many glass types used for custom tabletops. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular.
- Tempered Glass
There are different types of glass including fused quartz, soda-lime and borosilicate glass. They can be tempered or made stronger either by the heating and quenching method or by certain chemical treatments. This process makes it scratch-resistant and ensures that it cannot be drilled or broken easily. This glass type is typically four times stronger than clear and tinted glass, making it ideal for homes with children and/or pets.
- Clear Glass
Custom clear glass tabletops have properties similar to acrylic plastic. They’re bright, clear and can protect the rest of the table from damage. Generally, colourless glass is used with either a non-tinted or tinted edge. Both the variants are popular and are used for tabletops.
- Frosted Glass
Frosted or semi-transparent glass is six times stronger than clear glass because of its density. It is ideal for spaces where you need natural light but without compromising on privacy. Frosted glass while being ideal for home offices and laboratories, they are also good for shower doors and enclosures.
- Tinted Glass
The colours used for tinting include greens, greys, greenish blacks and pure black. Its properties are similar to clear glass, but the tinting allows it to absorb more heat. It also can’t reflect as much light as clear glass, making it ideal for applications where low light is required.
- Laminated Glass
This glass type is very different from others used for custom tabletops. It’s manufactured by fusing two glass panes over a thin layer of polyvinyl. This process makes the material resistant to mechanical impact and rapid temperature changes, ensuring it lasts many years.
Q3. How thick should a glass tabletop be?
Custom glass tabletops can offer a classic or modern appeal depending on their application, making them a great addition to homes with traditional, modern or contemporary interiors.
Contrary to popular belief, glass tabletops are durable and easy to maintain. Additionally, they can be customized to suit your requirements, including thickness. The general rule of thumb when it comes to thickness is the larger the tabletop, the thicker it should be. This is necessary to ensure the tabletop is well-balanced and safe.
For instance, one with a length, width or diameter of 24 inches should be no less than a ¼-inch thick. However, if you choose a smaller table, the thickness can be ⅛-inch to ensure it performs well when placed on the frame. Since desks and tables that are larger require more durability and strength, you should go for ½- to ⅜-inch. You can also go for a custom glass tabletop that is thicker, but remember not to compromise on durability or safety just to achieve the style you want.
Q4. What benefits do custom glass tabletops offer?
Here are some benefits homeowners enjoy with custom glass tabletops.
- The Illusion of Greater Space
If you are dealing with a small room and want to open up the space, a custom glass tabletop is a great option. Clear glass can make your room appear larger as there are no visual obstructions, as opposed to a solid countertop.
- Low Maintenance
Glass tabletops are easier to clean than other materials such as metal and wood. Whether you’re dealing with dirt or dust build-up, or a spill, all you need is a clean and soft cloth and your tabletop will look as good as new. Also, there is no need to worry about stains, as the material doesn’t absorb liquids, or scratches as it’s made with toughened glass.
- Protection for Underlying Materials
Many tables have the option to place a glass tabletop on top of delicate materials like wood. These protect the underlying material against spills and scratches. Custom glass tabletops can come in handy if you have pets or children who may wreak havoc on delicate materials.
Q5. How to clean glass tabletops?
Spray a mild vinegar solution (one part apple-cider or white vinegar with two parts water) and then wipe it thoroughly with a non-abrasive, soft cloth. Take care that there are no traces of the spray on the other parts of the table, especially if it is made of wood.
Stylish, durable and versatile, custom glass tabletops can improve the overall look and feel of any room. With many glass types available, you can find something that fits in with your existing decor, making it a must-have design element. Additionally, their sleek appearance and unmatched durability make them worth considering for your home.