The dining table is both a gathering spot for the family members and the area`s focal point.
According to the material used, in usual cases, there are two types of tables: all-wood tables and Top + Base tables, which allow you to choose a base style and combine it with a tabletop material.
The latter is popularly preferred and best suits one`s lifestyle. The article below discusses the characteristics and performances of different tabletop materials.
Wooden Top Dining Tables
Charactersitics
- most popular option
- traditional countertop material making a comeback
- durable and easy to repair
- versatile material
- hardwood is the best option
- warm, natural look
- timeless appeal
- easily mixes with other materials
- lacquer finish or oil-and-wax finish
- more expensive & than their softwood
Considerations
- color changes with age
- expands and contracts based on humidity
- scratches and wear with time
- heat and moisture can damage the finish
- lacquer requires professional refinishing if damaged
- oil-and-wax requires annual reapplication
Mahogany
Oak
Maple
Ash
Walnut
Cherry
Glass Top Dining Tables
Characteristics
- modern and elegant
- easy to clean
- gives a sophisticated look
- visual lightness
- versatile
- withstands moisture and heat
- tempered to help protect against injury
- easy to clean
- include clear, frosted or tinted versions
- works well with many decor themes
- excellent choice to make a space look a little lighter and brighter
Considerations
- fingertips and dust tend to cling to it
- can scratch or chip with heavy use
- can create glare indirect light
- tinted glass requires more maintenance
Metal Top Dining tables
Characteristics
- Sturdy and durable
- Modern, stain-resistant
- Contemporary
- Include stainless steel, brass, zinc and lacquered or painted versions
Considerations
- Shows every fingerprint
- Can require special cleaning tools
Laminated Top Dining tables
Characteristics
- fits budgets
- Man-made material
- include PVC, high impact melamine and veneer
- sturdy and durable
- durable
- easy to clean
Considerations
- Edges can chip or Top can scratch with heavy use
- Excessive Heat can damage the finish
- Not one of the nicest quality material
Marble Top Dining tables
Characteristics
- elegant rich tone
- easy to clean
- spells luxury and grandeur
- remains timeless
- withstands heat
- does require sealing to prevent staining
Considerations
- The unsealed surface is porous and susceptible to stains (Natural Marbles are porus by nature)
- Marble surface will scratch, dull and etch
- Larger table sizes require two pieces of Marble
- Tables made of Marble are bulky and heavy
Quartz Top (Engineered Stone or Artificial Marble) Dining Table
Characteristics
- sleek and modern
- a splendid alternative to natural stone
- consistent color and pattern from slab to slab
- non-porous
- durable and easy to clean
- resistant to scratches
- does not require sealing
- Customized fabrication of color, thickness, and designs
Considerations
- can scratch or chip with heavy use
- can discolor from direct or prolonged heat
- using two pieces for larger tables make the seam visible
Granite Top Dining table
Characterisitics
- modern, timeless look with subtle natural variations
- durable and easy to clean
- withstands heat
- does not require sealing
- doesn’t discolor
Considerations
- can chip or scratch with heavy use
- larger table sizes require two pieces; a seam will be visible
medium Density fiberboard (MDF) Top Dining table
Characteristics
- Modern look with solid, low-sheen color
- Great value
- Does not expand or contract with humidity
- Easy to clean
Considerations
- Heat and moisture can damage the finish
- Can chip or scratch with heavy use
- Not Durable Over a Long Run