How to Select Your New Outdoor Table Top

Selecting an outdoor table top for a commercial establishment involves different considerations than choosing one for personal use. The right commercial outdoor table top can create a welcoming space that can handle heavy-duty daily use. This decision impacts the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor seating areas as well as their functionality and longevity.

Whether you are outfitting a sidewalk café, a patio dining area, or a poolside lounge, understanding the key factors—material, size, maintenance, and cost—will guide you in making the best choice to meet your style and practical needs. With a strategic approach on how to select outdoor table tops, you can enhance your customer experience and ensure your outdoor furniture withstands the elements season after season.

Assess Your Space and Needs

Start by measuring and evaluating the layout of your outdoor area to determine how many tables you can comfortably accommodate without sacrificing accessibility, aesthetics, or your customers’ comfort. You must also consider how your customers will use the space—whether for dining, socializing, or casual drinks—to ensure the table tops you choose are functional and promote a positive customer experience.

• Evaluate your space. Begin by evaluating the outdoor space available at your establishment. Measure the width and length and assess the layout to determine the number of tables and the optimal arrangement to maximize seating without overcrowding. On average, each customer needs at least 24” of space at the table and around 30” of clearance between each table to provide adequate aisle space for waitstaff to travel.

• Understand usage patterns. Will the tables be used for dining or are they more for casual drinks and snacks? The intended use will influence the size and durability requirements of the table tops. For example, a cocktail area would need smaller table tops than an al fresco dining table at a restaurant to make enough room for plates and customer’s arms while eating.

Choose the Right Material

When selecting materials for your outdoor table tops, it is vital to consider durability, maintenance, and style. Opt for table top materials like composite resin for lightweight, weather-proof durability or natural stone like granite for a warm, natural aesthetic. Each material offers unique benefits and challenges, so weigh these factors carefully to match your specific needs and environment.

• Metal table tops. Metal is a popular choice for commercial outdoor settings due to its durability and ease of maintenance. Aluminum is a common option, offering a balance of weight and sturdiness. It is lightweight and rust-resistant, making it ideal for areas with heavy rain or humidity.

  The 30" Round Indoor/Outdoor Table in a sleek black finish is versatile and functional, perfect for any home, restaurant, or bar. Its metal construction and folding design make it ideal for spaces that require flexible seating solutions.

• Stone and composite table tops. Stone table tops, including granite, marble, and slate, are durable and add a luxurious element to any setting. However, they are heavier and more expensive. Composite materials, such as engineered stone or quartz, provide the look of stone with decreased weight and increased durability, often at a more affordable price.

  The Indoor/Outdoor Granite Table Top in Black is available in multiple sizes and shapes, ranging from 24” x 24” square to 30” round. Its durable 1.5” thick granite surface is built to withstand any weather, making it ideal for both covered and uncovered outdoor seating areas.

• Synthetic materials. Synthetic materials such as resin are becoming more popular due to their durability and low maintenance needs. These materials can withstand harsh weather conditions and are available in a wide range of finishes and colors, allowing for customization to fit any décor style.

  The Indoor/Outdoor Resin Table Tops are a superb choice for casual outdoor dining areas. Available in numerous sizes and shapes, these rugged 1.5” thick white resin tops are easy to clean mid-service and simple to maintain, protecting your investment.

• Wooden table tops. Wood offers natural beauty and warmth but requires more maintenance than metal. Teak (and even imitation teak) is an excellent choice for outdoor use due to its natural resistance to decay and pests. These woods also age beautifully, though they need regular treatment with oils or sealants to maintain their color and durability.

  The LaSalle Outdoor Aluminum Table combines durability with style, making it an excellent choice for any commercial outdoor area. Its sturdy aluminum frame and elegant imitation teak slatted table top are designed to withstand the elements, while the spacious dimensions and convenient umbrella hole make it perfect for outdoor dining.

Consider Shape and Size

The shape and size of your outdoor table tops should be compatible with the space’s layout and the type of customer interactions you anticipate. Round tables can promote a more intimate and engaging atmosphere for small groups, while square or rectangular options efficiently use space and are ideal for larger gatherings.

Choose dimensions that maximize seating capacity without overcrowding the area, maintaining a balance between comfort and functionality.

• Size matters. The size of the table tops should be appropriate for the space and the number of customers you wish to accommodate. Smaller tables are versatile and can be easily rearranged, while larger tables facilitate group dining and events.

• Shape influences interaction. The shape of a table plays a crucial role in shaping customer interactions. Round tables, for example, naturally encourage conversation, making them perfect for intimate gatherings or smaller group settings where everyone can easily engage with each other.

  Square and rectangular tables tend to encourage more formal interactions, with a clear head of the table. They also accommodate larger groups more comfortably than round tables and easily combine to extend your establishment’s seating options.

Durability and Maintenance

Choose table tops built to withstand the climate in your location, focusing on materials that offer strong resistance to UV rays, moisture, and temperature extremes. Prioritize options that are easy to clean and maintain, as this will keep ongoing maintenance costs and efforts low, ensuring the longevity and appearance of your outdoor furnishings.

Aesthetic Considerations

Ensure the aesthetic of your outdoor table tops matches your establishment’s overall theme and branding. Opt for colors and finishes that complement your décor, improving the outdoor seating area’s ambiance and appealing to your target clientele. This attention to style helps create a cohesive and inviting outdoor space that resonates with your brand identity.

• Match your brand. The style of the table tops should reflect your brand and the ambiance of your establishment. Whether you’re going for a rustic, modern, or traditional look, the table tops should complement the overall design and appeal to your target audience. For example, wooden table tops are ideal for a country-style steakhouse, while resin table tops are more suitable for retro diners and fast food restaurants.

• Color and finish. Color can affect the look and feel of your space. Neutral shades offer flexibility and longevity and allow you to add pops of color or change your aesthetic if necessary. Bold or unique colors can make a statement and improve your brand identity.

Find the Perfect Outdoor Table Tops for Commercial Use at Seats and Stools

Understanding how to select an outdoor table top for a commercial space is a strategic choice that influences customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and the overall look of your restaurant or cafe. By considering these factors, business owners and managers can choose table tops that meet their practical needs while improving the customer experience and reflecting the establishment’s brand identity.

Explore the complete range of commercial table tops and bases available at Seats and Stools, and contact us for more information on wholesale and custom orders.