Wood is one of the most classic materials for restaurant table tops, offering a warm elegance to any dining establishment. Whether your business favors the flexibility of laminate, the timeless sophistication of solid wood or the modern feel of metal and granite tabletops, there are plenty of options to fit your style and space. Understanding the difference between solid, laminate and wood-look tables will help you choose the right material to suit your commercial decor needs.

Solid wood is an excellent choice for table tops due to its strength, durability and unique color, grain pattern and texture. However, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best and avoid warping and cracking. wood tabletops can be made from a variety of wood species including oak, maple, cherry and walnut. They can be kiln dried or unfinished and can be either natural, stained or painted. Kiln drying reduces moisture content and biological degradation while fungi and insects are killed. It is also less expensive than other table top materials as it can be more readily available and easier to work with.

Laminate and veneer wood table tops offer the look of solid wood at a more affordable price point. They are made by bonding a layer of real wood to a cheaper core. The result is a durable tabletop that will resist warping and is a great option for businesses with tight budgets. Laminates and veneers tend to be thicker than solid wood table tops, making them resistant to splitting and better able to accommodate metal edging.

Another great budget-friendly choice is pine wood. This hardy wood can be stained to create an elegant and sophisticated look while retaining the rustic charm of the original material. It is a good choice for outdoor tables as it is resistant to rot and weathering. Pine is also an eco-friendly choice as it can be sourced locally reducing the carbon footprint of your furniture.

If you are looking for a more unique and high-end look, solid wood table tops can be crafted from hickory and white oak. These species are known for their beauty and resistance to rot and splintering. They also have a more consistent color than other hardwoods which makes them ideal for staining or painting.

Reclaimed wood offers a truly sustainable option for restaurant table tops. Reclaimed lumber has been matured for centuries which increases its durability compared to new wood. Timeworn table tops crafted from reclaimed barn wood are an example of this increased durability.

Choosing the right wood for your commercial tabletops will depend on the type of atmosphere you are creating and your specific budget. The GERTON tabletop from solid beech is an excellent choice for a traditional setting while the MALSKYTT tabletop from solid beech strikes a more contemporary note. Solid wood and reclaimed wood can be enhanced with customizable enhancements like waterfall edges and brand logos from TimeWorn to make your tabletop uniquely yours.