A smoked glass patio table is a popular choice for outdoor dining and entertaining. With its sleek and modern design, it adds a touch of elegance to any patio or deck. Not only does it create a stylish ambiance, but it also has the ability to make small spaces feel bigger. However, it's important to consider the safety aspects of a glass tabletop, as cracked or shattered glass can pose a risk of injury.
Are Glass Top Patio Tables Safe?
Generally, glass top patio tables are a safe choice for outdoor use. However, not all glass tabletops are created equal. Poorly manufactured or low-quality glass may be more prone to shattering due to weather conditions or impact. There are two main reasons why glass tabletops may shatter:
- Impact: Thin or poorly manufactured glass tabletops are less sturdy and may contain defects. Dropping a heavy object on the table or hitting a defect can cause it to crack or shatter.
- Weather: Weather patterns and storms can be harsh on glass tabletops and patio furniture. Hail can leave tables cracked or pockmarked, freezing and thawing cycles can weaken the table, and strong winds can carry tables off decks and over railings.
To minimize the impact of weather events on your patio furniture, it's recommended to store the pieces indoors during the winter or when not in use.
My Glass Table Shattered by Itself
It's not uncommon for glass outdoor tabletops to shatter without any apparent reason. Experts attribute these incidents to a combination of drastic temperature fluctuations and glass defects. While the likelihood of spontaneous shattering is small, you can further reduce the risk by:
- Choosing a table specifically manufactured for outdoor use.
- Selecting a table made of tempered or safety glass.
- Ensuring the glass is thick, depending on the style of the table, with a beveled edge.
Tempered glass is considered the safest option for outdoor glass tabletops. It undergoes a heating and cooling process that strengthens the glass, making it more resistant to impacts. If tempered glass does break, it shatters into small, pebble-like pieces without sharp edges, reducing the risk of injury.
Can Glass Patio Tables Stay Outside in Winter?
When it comes to winterizing your patio furniture, it's essential to consider the materials used. While some furniture materials can withstand freezing temperatures and snow, others may be prone to damage. Here's how different materials hold up in winter:
Wood:
Wooden patio furniture, particularly those made from teak, can generally be left outside during winter. However, applying a sealant is recommended to prevent moisture absorption and cracking. Furniture covers can also help extend the lifespan of wooden furniture.
Wicker:
Wicker furniture should not be left outside in winter as water can easily get inside and cause cracking when it freezes. It's best to cover or store wicker furniture indoors during the colder months.
Aluminum:
Aluminum furniture is highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including wet and cold conditions. However, it may be prone to being blown around in extremely windy conditions.
Steel:
Steel furniture should not be left outside all winter long as cold conditions can cause the paint to crack and rust to form. It's recommended to touch up any scratches in the paint and store the furniture.
Stone:
Stone furniture, especially natural stone, can be susceptible to water seepage and damage from freezing and expanding water. While it can be left outside, covering it will help protect it from the elements.
Iron:
Similar to steel furniture, iron furniture should be touched up and brought inside during winter to prevent cracking and rust formation.
Plastic:
Plastic furniture is generally resistant to freezing and expansion of water. However, cold conditions can make it more brittle, so it's advisable to place plastic furniture into storage during winter.
Glass:
Glass-topped tables should be brought inside or put into storage during winter. While snow and wind alone won't break the glass, falling branches or other objects can cause damage.
Fabric:
Most fabrics, such as cushions, should be brought inside or put into storage during winter to prevent mold and mildew growth. However, fabrics made of Sunbrella are water and weatherproof and can be left outside.
In conclusion, teak and aluminum furniture, along with Sunbrella fabrics, are the best options for leaving patio furniture outside all winter. Other materials, except for stone, should be stored or brought indoors. Properly winterizing your patio furniture can help prolong its lifespan and keep it in optimal condition.
Whether your patio furniture needs touch-ups or extensive repairs, The Southern Company is here to help. With over 40 years of experience, we specialize in patio furniture restoration. Contact us today for more information on our services and get your outdoor furniture looking like new again.
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