Custom Glass Table Top: Frequently Asked Questions

By
Ashley Christensen
December 5, 2022

Anyone who has a beautiful table in their home may consider purchasing a custom-cut glass tabletop to protect their furniture. But how do you know what type or thickness of glass you need to purchase for your specific table? Here we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions regarding custom-cut glass table tops. 

What is the best glass thickness for my tabletop? 

The thickness that will be best for your specific table will be dependent upon the style of table that you have. If you will be using the glass to cover and protect the top of your table, you can get away with a 1/4-inch table top. If you are going to be using the glass as the surface of the tabletop, you’ll want a thicker piece of glass, based on the table’s size. 

The standard thicknesses of table tops range from 3/16, 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2-inch. Aside from instances where thicker glass is necessary, choosing the thickness for your tabletop is a personal preference. Thicker glass looks and feels more substantial, but can be extremely heavy as glass gets heavier with increasing size and thickness. 

What Are Heavy Glass Tabletops? 

Heavy glass tabletops are those that are 1/2 or 3/8 inches thick. They are most commonly found on top of larger tables, like those found in dining rooms, or outdoor patio tables. Heavy glass tabletops are more durable and stronger than those made out of a thinner piece of glass, which is what makes them so desirable for larger tables. If you have a table, where the glass will be sitting directly on top of the table legs, then you’ll want to purchase a heavy glass table top for its ultra strength, safety, and durability. 

Does a Tabletop Have to be Tempered? 

In most cases, a tabletop can be tempered, but it's a good idea, due to the extra strength that tempered glass provides. If you put glass on an outside patio table, you will HAVE to be tempered. Additionally, if the glass will sit directly on the legs of the table, then you should invest in tempered rather than an annealed tabletop. If you’re not sure if you should order a tempered tabletop or not, ask the experts at Gordon’s Glass and they will be able to provide you with expert advice on which route you should go. Remember, tempering glass will not change the weight or appearance of the glass.

What Type of Edge Work Should I Have for a Custom Cut Table Top? 

Gordon’s Glass offers four different edges that you order to finish off your custom-cut table top. 

  • Seamed Edge: cheapest option available, a seamed edge eliminates the sharpness off the edge of the glass for safe handling. A seamed edge is ideal on table tops where the edge will not be visible. 
  • Flat Edge: This type of edge work is polished and resembles a square shape. The glass is polished to achieve a smooth and shiny finish after it has been cut to the correct size. A flat edge is ideal for those who want a minimal look, and for the edges to be visible. 
  • Pencil Edge: This type of edging resembles a rounded edge, similar to that of a pencil. The edge is rounded, smooth, and shiny. 
  • Beveled Edge: A beveled edge is a sloped, straight edge around the perimeter of the tabletop. To achieve a beveled edge, the glass is cut to the specified size, and then the edges are polished down to form a specific beleved width at an angle. 

If you are in the market for a custom-cut glass table top, contact Gordon’s Glass today. With the ability to provide beautiful, custom-sized glass table tops, you will be able to enjoy your table for years to come with a custom-cut glass table top from Gordon’s Glass. 

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