Your patio table serves as the center of your outdoor dining and lounging space, so its durability must withstand frequent use while complementing your overall design vision for this set.
Patio tables come in all sorts of shapes and sizes to meet the needs of every outdoor living space, but here are a few of the more popular choices.
Size
When choosing the appropriate patio table size, it is essential that you consider both your garden’s dimensions and how many people will be sitting at it. As you will likely also need garden chairs and parasols for seating purposes, planning ahead can save a lot of hassle later. If unsure of how large a dining table will be before purchasing one, try creating an outline using cardboard or even old bed sheets before hand so as to better visualise space available and ensure chairs can easily move around the table without obstructions.
There are four basic types of patio tables: square, round, oval, and rectangular. Each shape offers distinct advantages and benefits for different gardens; square patio tables may be particularly suited to smaller outdoor spaces due to their ability to facilitate conversation among guests sitting equally close together – and come in sizes that accommodate two to four people up to larger commercial patios of 102 inches in width!
Round and oval patio tables provide more seating arrangement options than rectangular ones, as they come with various finish options to complement existing garden furniture or create an entirely different atmosphere in a space.
Coffee and end tables are popular options for patio tables. These tables often pair nicely with lounge furniture such as sofas and loveseats. Available in various heights with storage capabilities to increase utility, these patio tables come in various materials to meet weather requirements in your region. It’s essential that when selecting these pieces of outdoor furniture you make sure the material can withstand all forms of climate.
Shape
Your patio table’s shape will have an enormous impact on how you use your outdoor space. Consider what activities will take place around it – family barbeques or intimate coffee dates on Sunday morning for instance – before choosing one with dimensions that suit them well.
Rectangular patio tables are among the most popular options available and work perfectly in most spaces and with garden chairs. If you want something different, there are other shapes such as oval, round and hexagonal available as options as well.
Each option offers its own distinct aesthetic that will complement different patio spaces. Materials used can also alter its style – for instance wrought iron tends to give off more of an traditional vibe while teak offers more modern vibes.
As is true with patio sizes, garden table shapes will also impact how space is utilized on your patio. For instance, when selecting a square table you should allow approximately six feet for guests to move freely in and out of their seats.
Round or oval tables allow chairs to be packed closer together for smaller patios and take up less space due to their rounded corners.
Height
Height should always be taken into consideration when choosing the ideal patio table for your space. Patio tables come in various heights to meet varying seating needs – from standard dining tables to high-top bar tables. Casual coffee and end tables of various heights make an excellent accompaniment for outdoor lounge seating such as sofas, loveseats, chairs or chaise lounges.
If you plan to use a counter-height table, make sure your upholstered chairs can easily fit beneath it without any obstructions. Counter chairs typically measure 26″- 27″, making them the ideal solution for people who prefer sitting over standing while eating.
DIY Project – To construct your table quickly and affordably, measure the distance between longer table aprons, cut two 1×3 boards to that size, attach them with wood glue and 1 1/4″ Kreg screws, and you have yourself a sturdy table ready for patio enjoyment! For additional guidance in purchasing patio furniture please read through our Patio Tables Buying Guide, Outdoor Bar Stools Buying Guide and Tips for Selecting Patio Furniture guides.
Material
Choose a material for your patio table that can withstand the elements, provide durability, and suit your design style. Options like wood, aluminum, wrought iron, recycled plastic and wicker all have their own set of advantages and disadvantages that should be carefully considered when making this decision.
Natural wood offers timeless beauty and long-term strength. Unfortunately, however, its upkeep requires costly regular attention in order to maintain its appearance. Over time it may splinter and crack, so when purchasing wood furniture it is wise to purchase quality pieces with guarantees attached.
Aluminum offers lightweight durability and an array of color choices, while being easy to cut and shape, which makes it a popular choice among manufacturers. Unfortunately, uncoated aluminum may rust over time when exposed to moisture from rainstorms; for best results when purchasing furniture made from aluminum make sure it has been coated with an antirust substance such as varnish.
Wrought iron furniture is one of the sturdiest options for outdoor seating, yet can be quite heavy, creating issues if your location features strong winds or corrosion issues. Furthermore, its use makes wrought iron susceptible to corrosion issues that might need to be managed over time.
Recycled plastic furniture is an eco-friendly material that’s durable and versatile, perfect for creating coastal or tropical-inspired looks on patios. However, this material may be less stylish than others due to being more flimsy.
At its core, choosing the ideal material for a patio table will depend on its dimensions and seating needs in terms of both people and seating capacity. Selecting an appropriate table size is vital in making sure that it fits comfortably within its seating area while still allowing movement around it; map out your layout using masking tape or kraft paper prior to making purchases so as to ensure it will fit your seating arrangements seamlessly.
Style
Your patio table needs to be both durable and attractive; after all, this will be where you enjoy lunches on sunny days and cocktails on warm evenings. There are various options available but it is essential to consider both its dimensions and what will be used this table for before making your selection.
Rectangular patio dining tables are often the go-to style, as they fit seamlessly into most spaces and can accommodate a range of chairs. But for something a bit different there are also circular and oval options. When selecting one for your patio space make sure it complements its shape too – otherwise choosing an inappropriate style could prove costly!
Once you’ve determined the size and shape of your patio table, it’s time to assemble it! Measure the distance between longer table aprons, cut two 1x3s to this length, attach them with wood glue and 1 1/4″ Kreg screws at either end, then secure them to each longer apron with wooden glue and screws (1 1/4″ Kreg recommended).
Once your new patio table has been constructed, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Decorate it with flowers, plants and table runners; purchase an umbrella to provide shade from the sun; and keep your new table covered when not in use to protect against elements.