Table of Contents
- What are laminate table tops?
- Are laminate table tops durable?
- What are the benefits of laminate table tops?
- How to clean the laminate table top?
- How to protect the laminate table top
- How to shine a laminate table top
- How to remove stains from the laminate table top
- What are the pros and cons of laminate table tops?
- What are Laminate table top maintenance tips?
- Where to buy laminate table tops?
- FAQs
For many years, laminate table tops were not considered high quality or long lasting. However, due to advancements in manufacturing processes, solid laminate table tops offer a popular alternative in table tops for commercial applications. No wonder they have become a preferred choice for many restaurant owners. Before discussing why they have become a good choice for restaurant table tops, let's first understand the material.
What are laminate table tops?
Laminate is a unique material constructed by pressing the layers of high strength paper together with thermosetting resins like melamine under high temperature and pressure. The hardened resin, along with protective coatings, then transforms the material for furniture use. Finally, fiberboards, also known as substrates, are added to the laminate to make it strong and suitable for commercial use. Laminate table tops are available in several shapes and sizes, rectangular/square and round being the most popular. Depending on the fabrication process, laminate is available in two variants:
- Low-Pressure Laminate (LPL): Attachment of the substrate core with laminate is adhesive-free and happens at lower pressures (290 - 435 psi). However, this process uses higher temperatures (335-375 degreesFahrenheit).
- High-pressure Laminate (HPL): As the name suggests, the manufacturing processuses high-pressure (up to 1,500 psi) to attach laminate and substrate at lower temperatures (280-320 degrees Fahrenheit).
Both these processes result in durable and water-resistant products. However, low-pressure laminates are less expensive than their high-pressure equivalent.
Are laminate table tops durable?
As a business owner, you want your restaurant furniture to last as long as possible. Laminate table tops are scratch and stain resistant intrinsically and built to last. Since they are durable and long lasting, you don't have to worry about repairing or replacing them frequently. The resilient composite and finish surface ensure that they are easy to clean and retain their appearance with minimal work. Durable laminate table tops can handle the day-to-day wear and tear of any busy restaurant.
What are the benefits of laminate table tops?
Laminate table tops are versatile and offer numerous benefits in any commercial setting that include:
1. Maintenance and durability
One of the best things that favor laminate table tops is their ease of maintenance. If you own a busy restaurant that witness a lot of traffic, laminate table tops can be a perfect choice. All you need is a damp cloth to wipe down dirt and grime while preparing the table for your next guest. This ease of maintenance increases table turnover at your restaurant and the efficiency of your staff. Also, unlike wooden furniture, laminate table tops do not require protective coatings or sealing. Laminate tables are famous for their resilient, unique composition and vibrant look which ensures that they perform flawlessly while looking stunning even after years of continued use.
2. Low cost of ownership
Laminate is an artificial material with a simplified construction process and is one of the most economical options for restaurant tables. Moreover, the durability of laminate table tops gives unmatched value to your investment. Apart from initial savings, the operational savings on care and maintenance or replacement can be crucial in the longer run.
3. Variety of colors and styles
Laminate table tops are available in a wide variety of colors and styles to pair with any theme in your restaurant. Laminate table tops have several customization options as the manufacturing process allows you to make patterns, designs, logos, and inlays on them. From wood-grain finish to latitude color scheme, coordinating color and style options with other restaurant design elements is effortless with laminate table tops.
4. Water-resistant
Laminate is a water-resistant material which means spills won't damage the table top, water left on the top for extended periods could damage the top as it is not waterproof. Spills are very easy to clean up with just a wipe of a dry rag across the surface.
How to clean the laminate table top?
- Regular dusting with a microfiber cloth does the trick most of the time while cleaning a laminate table top.
- For spills, use a damp sponge or soft cloth along with a mild soap solution. Rinse the surface with warm water and dry thoroughly.
- If you notice stubborn stains from spills due to tea or coffee, use mild cleaners like Windex, isopropanol, etc., and a non-abrasive, soft-bristled brush.
- If the stains persist, prepare a paste of baking soda in water. Apply the paste using a soft brush and scrub lightly for about 10 to 20 strokes. While baking soda is low-abrasive, rigorous scrubbing or putting too much pressure can damage the laminate surface.
- As a last resort, you can consider bleach or nail polish remover. However, be cautious as prolonged exposure to bleach might cause discoloration of the laminate table top.
How to protect the laminate table top
- Avoid exposure to water for a long duration. If you notice spills, wipe the surface immediately with a dry, soft cloth.
- Use coasters or mats to protect the laminate table top from heat, stains, and spills.
How to shine a laminate table top
- Prepare a solution of quarter-cup white vinegar in 3 cups warm water. Pour the solution into a plastic spray bottle and shake gently to mix the contents.
- Spray the solution on the laminate table top and rub the surface with a microfiber cloth. If you notice any stubborn stains or marks, rub gently by applying pressure.
- Allow the solution to absorb and try on the surface. Spray a light coat of glass cleaner and apply it evenly on the table top with a microfiber cloth.
- Gently rub the cloth in overlapping circles to regain the shine on the surface.
How to remove stains from the laminate table top
- Begin by cleaning with a mild soap solution and damp cloth.
- For persistent stains, use a soft brush with a household cleaner.
- If stains are stubborn, apply a baking soda and water paste with a soft brush and rub lightly.
- If the stains resist all the above methods, consider using nail polish remover or bleach.
What are the pros and cons of laminate table tops?
Pros:
- Cost-Effective
- Available in several design and style options
- Durable and versatile
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Prone to burns
- Lacks the appeal of some premium table top materials
- Lacks natural variations
What are Laminate table top maintenance tips?
- Make sure that you always rinse the laminate surface after cleaning. Any left-over cleaning solution like bleach or isopropanol might cause damage and discoloration.
- Always spot test before using a cleaner on the laminate table top.
- Do not use abrasive or acidic on the laminate surfaces.
- Never place hot plates or baking trays directly on the laminate table top as they might cause blistering.
- Do not use abrasive pads, scrubbers, or steel wools for cleaning laminate table tops.
- Never use steam cleaners as the moisture plus heat might affect the glued layers and cause water damage.
Where to buy laminate table tops?
At Missouri Table & Chair, we offer a wide range of laminate table tops to meet your needs. Different styles in our inventory include a solid wood edge, a T-mold shape with rubber mold edging, or a self-edge option. For restaurants our laminate table tops come in several sizes to meet your space requirements in different shapes like round, rectangular, and square. With over four decades of experience, we are better placed to offer the perfect, custom solution for your all commercial requirements at competitive prices and stellar after sales services.
Summing it up:
Selecting table tops for your restaurant depends on a lot of factors like your budget, restaurant style, ambiance, etc. Laminate is a versatile, durable, customizable, and affordable furniture material that has got it all. Availability of laminate table tops in different hues, textures, and finishes makes it convenient to match any restaurant theme. All in all, laminate table tops are an easy, popular table top choice.
FAQs
How do you clean wood laminate furniture?
The easiest way to clean wood laminate furniture is to dust the surface with a microfiber cloth. For stains, use a solution of soap flakes in warm water. For stubborn stains or grimes, you can use a dilute solution of white vinegar in water.
Is laminate good for table tops?
Yes, laminate is cost-effective, low-maintenance, long-lasting, and durable, and is an ideal material for table tops.
