Buying glass tops is not as simple as it seems.There are many things to consider while buying a glass tabletop. Measurement, glass thickness, glass type and several other factors should be considered in order to choose a perfect glass topper. Glass type (tempered, Annealed, Plexiglas, and laminated) and edges (flat, beveled edge) should also be kept in mind to buy the tabletop. These are the important factors to select the glass tabletop.
Measurement and Size
There are four main table shapes available in which most tables come in.
· Round table
· Oval table
· Square table
· Rectangular table
The customer can buy it according to his desired size and measurement. The shapes are not only limited to these. There are many manufacturers which can cut glass to any pattern you need.
Types of glass
Mainly four important types of glass are available in the market.
- Tempered glass
- Annealed glass
- Plexiglas
- Laminated glass
- Glittered Glass
- Tinted Glass
- Crackled Glass
Tempered glass
Tempered glass is usually made with a toughening process. Tempered glass is expensive and strong in terms of usage. Tempered glass panels are hard in nature which makes it difficult to scratch. It usually breaks into small pieces. It is usually used where human safety concerns. It is safer than other glass when broken due to its small clusters. Tempered glass is more heat resistant. It can be used in Windows, living rooms, doors, and in showcases, etc.
Annealed glass
Annealed glass is cheaper than tempered glass which makes it an affordable option for everyone. It is commonly used in tabletop, cabinets, kitchens, etc. It is less resistant to scratches. It breaks into large pieces and may be harmful. Annealed glass is less heat and weather-resistant.
Laminated glass
Laminated glass is made of polyvinyl butyral. Laminated glass is actually two panels of glass. A thermoplastic polyurethane layer is placed between the two panels that provides the glass heat and pressure resistance. Automobile windshield “with spider web” is an example of laminated glass. Laminated glass is often used in exterior storefronts, curtain walls, and windows. Laminated glass is used to increase the insulation of sound in rooms and halls. It also enhances sound proofing compared to monolithic glass. The interlayer of laminated glass blocks nearly all ultraviolet radiations.
Plexiglas
Plexiglas is cheap and used as an alternative to polycarbonate. It is highly chemical and heat resistant. It can be easily handled and available at a low cost. Sometimes scratches easily come on plexiglass. Plexiglas is also known as acrylic glass and by name. This plastic is often used as light weight transparent sheets which makes it the perfect choice for table top.
Crackled Glass
If you need a unique look for your table then crackled glass is a perfect option to be considered. As its name shows it comes in a crackle look which gives it an illusion of broken glass. This broken look is achieved by attaching three glass surfaces together and breaking the central glass layer intentionally with specific tools. You can also find crackled glass top in different patterns.
Glittered Glass
Glittered glass is a new trend in glass tops which comes with shinny glitter between two panels of glass. It is more common for kids’ rooms and schools. You can find different color schemes in glittered glass.
Tinted Glass
Last but not least tinted glass is another popular glass type which is used for glass tops. It is made by simply tinting a clear glass in a specific color. Bronze or gray tinted glass is most commonly used however you can also find more color options in it. Tinted glass is recommended for outdoor tables and wooden furniture.
Glass Thickness
Once you have decided the glass type for your table top, now you can choose the suitable thickness. It is very important to choose the right thickness for your tabletop according to your usage. Otherwise it can collapse due to overpressure. The most common glass thicknesses available in the market are 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm and 19mm.
Edge Work
Edge of your table topper is yet another factor which should be considered to make a perfect choice. Flat polished edges, also known as 1/8 bevel edges are most common and have a way better look. Many customers select this due to its beautiful appearance and glossy finish. Flat-edged glass is a more popular glass edge style because of its appealing look and rigidity. Flat polished edges are used in table tops, kitchen countertops and table covers. It is also used in Glass Showers. There are also many more styles in edges available which includes beveled edge, pencil polished edge and many more.
These were the few most important things which you can consider to choose a perfect glass topper for any table.
