TABLETOP MATERIAL
INTRODUCTION
Tabletops are focal points of dining rooms, but they can also enhance living rooms' features by complementing other furniture. A tabletop material can significantly impact the desired space and function when used correctly. The tabletop materials can be tailored to the theme using various materials. Therefore, different tabletop materials serve other purposes based on their usability, as we can see in different locations.
TYPES OF MATERIALS USED FOR TABLETOPS
CORIAN
It is an excellent choice for tabletops because Corian, made by Dupont, is durable, easy to clean, and water-resistant. It also has a seamless appearance that can be easily repaired with a regular dishwashing scrub, so scratches and other marks can be easily removed. Its advantages do not stop there; it is also a sustainable design approach with various colours and textures accessible.
GRANITE
Granite is one of the most popular tabletop materials. This natural stone is a type of igneous rock that comes in various textures and colours based on the percentage of mineral content in it. These are more sustainable options because they are entirely natural and provide a unique identity to the room because no two granites are identical. Because of its scratch and stain resistance, it is ideal for tabletops in dining and living rooms. It is also suitable for kitchen counters for the same reasons, with the added benefit of being heat resistant. In addition to these qualities, one of the most important is that because it is non-porous, it is less prone to the build-up of bacteria and viruses, making it more ideal for the current conditions.
The maintenance cost for this material is zero or very cheap compared to other materials.
GLASS
Regarding modern design, glass is the most utilised tabletop material. It establishes a visual connection with floor elements. It can thus be integrated with other design features that complement its transparency. It is appropriate when the space must be visually clean, straightforward, and elegant. Aside from clear glass, there is coloured, frosted, and patterned glass that can be used for tabletops.
METALS
When we think of metals, the first thing that comes to mind is that they are usually used in industrial and commercial settings. Still, the use of metal tabletops does not stop there. Metal tabletops are ideal for giving residential units an industrial, rustic, or contemporary appeal. Metals come in a range of textures and vintage finishes. Combined with related furnishings, they create a bold, dramatic, yet subtle aesthetic in the home. It can be in combination with other materials like glass to give more dimension to space. Apart from this, metals never fail to meet the criteria for strength and durability.
UPVC
Un-plasticised polyvinyl chloride is one of the materials being reviewed in the marketplace; these are cost-effective and low-cost materials with low maintenance and are long-lasting. Aside from the features mentioned, it is rot resistant, so there is no risk of harm from rough handling. It is a recyclable material with a ten-cycle life; thus, it may be used when money is limited, but an environmental approach towards design is desired.
ITALIAN MARBLE
Talking about aesthetics, marbles never go out of style. Italian marbles are one of the materials that are so flexible that they can be used everywhere, whether as a tabletop material, flooring, or cladding. One distinguishing trait of Italian marble is its ability to resist temperature changes without expanding or breaking. It gives the table a royal appearance, is easy to clean, and is long-lasting.
CONCLUSION
When it comes to furniture, it is a one-time investment that must be perfect according to the client's preferences, so picking a tabletop material should be done after taking into account all of the factors about the materials that can be used as tabletops and choosing one that will complement the theme and will last for a long time.
