Table Tops - Key Questions Answered
Tabletops play a critical role in restaurants, hospitality venues, offices, and public spaces where durability, safety, and appearance must work together. In high-traffic environments, the right tabletop material ensures long-term performance while reducing maintenance and replacement costs. A wide range of commercial-grade tabletop solutions is available — from high-pressure laminate (HPL) and ultra-thin THINSCAPE® slab tops to marine-grade SeaBoard® surfaces designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Each option is selected for strength, resistance to moisture and wear, and design flexibility, allowing operators to match performance requirements with the look and function of their space.
Q: Why is material selection so important when choosing commercial tabletops?
A: Tabletops in public and hospitality environments experience constant use, spills, impacts, and frequent cleaning. Choosing the correct material directly affects durability, appearance retention, and long-term cost of ownership. Commercial-grade materials are engineered to resist wear, moisture, heat, and chemicals while maintaining a consistent finish in high-traffic areas.
Q: How are commercial tabletops produced?
A: Raw materials are typically stocked in-house, allowing production to begin immediately once an order is placed. Tabletops are precision-cut using CNC equipment, then laminated and finished
Q: What makes laminate tabletops one of the most popular choices for restaurants?
A: High-pressure laminate (HPL) tabletops dominate the restaurant industry because they offer excellent durability, impact resistance, and design flexibility. HPL surfaces are available from industry-leading brands such as Wilsonart and Formica. These surfaces resist heat, chemicals, and daily wear, making them ideal for high-turn restaurant environments where performance and appearance must be maintained over time.
Q: What types of laminate tabletops are available?
A: Laminate tabletops can be configured for many applications, including:
-Standard tabletops in multiple sizes and finishes
-Drop-leaf tabletops for space-saving flexibility
-Wall-mounted and wall DT tables to maximize floor space
-Communal and charging-capable tables commonly used in hotel lobbies, offices, and shared workspaces
Q: What are THINSCAPE® slab tops and where are they best used?
A: THINSCAPE® slab tops offer a sleek, ultra-thin profile combined with impressive strength and durability. Manufactured in the U.S. and GREENGUARD Gold certified, they are ideal for contemporary hospitality spaces seeking a refined look without sacrificing performance. Available styles include stone, marble, and wood-inspired designs that pair well with modern table bases.
Q: When should SeaBoard® tabletops be considered?
A: SeaBoard® tabletops are the preferred choice for outdoor and marine-grade applications. Made from high-density polyethylene, they are waterproof, UV-stable, and never require painting or refinishing. StarBoard works exceptionally well in outdoor restaurants, coastal locations, healthcare environments, and any space requiring maximum moisture and chemical resistance.
Q: Can different tabletop materials be mixed within the same project?
A: Yes. Many projects use laminate indoors, THINSCAPE® for feature areas, and SeaBoard® outdoors. This approach allows designers and operators to match material performance to each space while maintaining a cohesive visual identity.
Q: Can laminate tabletops be produced in two colors, with one color for the surface and another for the edge?
A: Yes. Laminate tabletops can be manufactured in two-tone designs, where the tabletop surface and edging are finished in different colors or materials. This is a straightforward process for manufacturers and allows for greater design flexibility. Two-tone combinations often enhance visual appeal and create a custom look — for example, a marble-style surface paired with a contrasting or metallic edge. These design details frequently elevate the table’s appearance and are well received by guests in hospitality environments.