We touched on outdoor glass tables in our recent garden coffee table article, and while they’re not something we have or need on our garden tables, they are common across our industry.
These types of tables are designed to provide a stylish, functional surface for various outdoor activities like dining, lounging, or displaying decor. The glass allows for a clean, modern aesthetic and is often used in conjunction with materials like metal or wood for the base or framework.
What are the different types of glass garden tables?
The common types of glass used in the UK garden furniture industry include:
1. Tempered
Made by heating regular glass to a high temperature and then cooling it rapidly. This process strengthens the glass, making it four to five times stronger than ordinary glass. It's the most common type of glass for garden tabletops due to its durability and safety. If it breaks, it shatters into small, blunt pieces rather than sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury. It is best suited to temperature changes and harsh weather conditions but indoor storage is advised in winter.
2. Laminated
Consists of two or more layers of glass sandwiched around a layer of plastic or resin. This layer holds the glass together if it breaks, it prevents it from shattering into pieces. It offers added safety and durability. Not as common in the UK as a tempered glass top, laminated glass is often used in areas where additional safety or security is needed, especially in the contract sector for outdoor tables going in public spaces.
3. Annealed
A standard, untreated glass that hasn't undergone the heat-strengthening process. It's relatively fragile compared to tempered glass. It's less expensive to produce than tempered or laminated glass but is also more prone to breakage. It is not as common here in the UK and is best avoided for outdoor use because of its fragility, but we have seen it used in more decorative pieces or on some low-cost imports.
4. Frosted
Has a translucent, matte finish, that’s achieved through sandblasting, acid etching, or using frosted glass sheets. It provides a softer aesthetic compared to clear glass and is less likely to show fingerprints and dirt, making it a low-maintenance option. Often used on classically styled cast iron tables, it’s good for environments where the glass should blend with the surroundings or not be too reflective.
5. Low Iron
Glass with a reduced iron content, making it clearer and more transparent. Regular glass often has a slight greenish tint but low iron eliminates that, providing crystal-clear visibility and a premium look. It is preferred for tables with a sleek or modern design and is popular at the high-end or designer end of the market, where clarity is important to the overall finish.
6. UV Coated
Some glass, mainly tempered, is treated with a UV coating to prevent discolouration and degradation from prolonged exposure to sunlight. UV coatings protect the glass from fading, yellowing, or becoming brittle when exposed to UV rays for extended periods and are ideal for outdoor settings where the table will be frequently exposed to sunlight.
7. Colour-Tinted
Coloured or tinted glass is often achieved by adding metal oxides to the glass during the manufacturing process to create shades like grey or blue. Coloured glass can help reduce glare or add a decorative touch to the tabletop. Often used for aesthetic purposes or to match the surrounding decor. Tinted glass is also practical in sunnier climes with intense sunlight.
Other factors to consider when purchasing a glass-topped patio table
As well as the type of glass, it is important to also consider the thickness and edge treatment before you purchase this type of table.
The thickness of the glass used will usually depend on the design and purpose of the table. Outdoor tables should be using a thicker glass. It should be at least 5mm thick but closer to 10mm for added durability.
Glass edges may be treated with various finishes, too, like bevelled, polished, or rounded off with a bullnose or waterfall edge to reduce sharpness and enhance aesthetics.
For UK gardens, we would say the most suitable edges tend to be those that prioritise safety, durability, and easy maintenance over style. Given our unpredictable climate, it is also important that the edge is resistant to chipping and breakage.
The most common types of glass used for garden tabletops in our industry are tempered glass. It offers the best combination of safety and strength.
Each type of glass serves different needs in terms of strength, safety, aesthetics, and functionality, making it essential to choose the right kind based on the intended use and where you plan to put the table.
How do you clean, protect and maintain outdoor glass table tops?
Maintaining and cleaning outdoor glass tabletops requires a bit of care to ensure longevity, aesthetics, and safety. Different types of glass may require slightly different cleaning methods, but the core principles of general care remain the same.
Cleaning for all glass types is simply a case of wiping your glass top regularly with a soft cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris. This will prevent any buildup of grime that could damage or scratch the glass over time.
Use a soft microfibre glass cloth (the green ones) to avoid leaving scratches but avoid using any harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or scrubbers, as these can damage the surface of the glass and scratch it.
In terms of a cleaning solution, we just stick to a gentle spray glass cleaner. You could also use a homemade solution of water and vinegar (1:1 ratio) if you want a more budget-friendly kitchen-cupboard cleaning option.
After rain, you can also use a squeegee to remove water quickly and prevent streaks or water spots from forming. Watermarks can be more noticeable on glass tabletops, especially on clear or low-iron glass.
In terms of the different types of glass, we would clean and protect them as follows:
1. Tempered Glass
Clean with a mild glass cleaner or a water-vinegar mix and a soft cloth. For tough stains, use a damp cloth with dish soap or a specialised cleaner, followed by water and a microfibre cloth to dry. UV-resistant coatings, often included in garden tables, can help protect from sunlight. If not already treated, apply a UV-protective spray. While tempered glass is stronger than regular glass, avoid placing heavy or sharp objects on it. Applying a glass sealant can help protect against water stains and dirt, especially in rainy conditions.
2. Laminated Glass
Clean with a mild cleaner and soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the protective layer. For sticky stains, use water and dish soap or vinegar. Use a non-abrasive sponge and gentle cleaner. Laminated glass is more prone to scratching, so avoid rough sponges. It may already have UV protection, but consider adding a UV film if it gets a lot of sunlight. Periodically inspect the edges for signs of wear or delamination, replacing the glass if necessary.
3. Annealed Glass
Clean with mild soap and water, using a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive scrubbers. For tough stains, use a glass cleaner or vinegar-water solution. Annealed glass is fragile, so avoid heavy impacts or sharp objects. If used outdoors, place the table in a sheltered area. Consider adding bumpers or edging to prevent chipping. A water-repellent sealant can protect against stains and watermarks.
4. Frosted Glass
Clean with a mild cleaner or vinegar-water mix and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasives to protect the frosted texture. The frosted glass shows fingerprints and grease, so regular cleaning is essential. Apply a water-repellent coating to reduce streaks and make cleaning easier. Be cautious when moving objects, as scratches are more visible on frosted surfaces.
5. Low Iron Glass
Clean with a mild cleaner and a microfibre cloth to maintain its clarity. For stubborn stains, use a specialised cleaner or a vinegar-water mix. Avoid acidic cleaners that could damage the surface. Low-iron glass shows fingerprints and water spots, so apply a water-repellent or anti-fingerprint coating. It’s also prone to discolouration from UV rays, so consider applying a UV film for outdoor use. Clean regularly to maintain its appearance, and protect it from extreme weather to prevent cracking.
6. Tinted Glass
Clean with a mild cleaner or water-vinegar solution and a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and sharp objects. Tinted glass can fade in direct sunlight, so cover or store it during sunny days. Regular cleaning is important to maintain the colour and clarity, and UV coatings can help prevent fading and preserve vibrancy.
Always clean your glass tabletops regularly with a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, and consider using a squeegee to remove any rain that has pooled on the surface to prevent watermarks.
Why doesn’t Lazy Susan have glass on their garden furniture?
As we mentioned in the intro, we don’t sell glass tables or supply our cast aluminium garden tables with a glass top. Our product development team has looked at them as they can look great but we have always had concerns about suitability to our climate.
Even the tempered glass tops, which are the best suited by far, can break easily in UK gardens due to harsh weather conditions, including strong winds, impacts from falling objects, and the sudden temperature fluctuations we can see, even in summer.
We think our metal tables are a far better choice for UK gardens for several key reasons, especially considering our climate and outdoor conditions.
Here's why a cast aluminium table might be the ideal option for your garden:
1. Weather Resistance
Glass tabletops, even when tempered or laminated, are vulnerable to the UK’s unpredictable weather, including rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations, leading to watermarks, dirt, or cracks. Glass also feels cold in winter and can be damaged by heat in summer. In contrast, cast aluminium is corrosion-resistant, doesn't rust, and maintains stability in temperature changes, making it more reliable for UK gardens.
2. Durability
Despite tempered glass being toughened, it can still shatter from heavy impacts or knocks, especially in outdoor spaces with children or pets. Cast aluminium, however, is impact-resistant and won’t shatter. Its weight also helps it resist wind, a common issue in the UK during storms.
3. Maintenance
Glass tabletops require frequent cleaning to avoid stains and marks that can be difficult to remove, especially in wet conditions. Cast aluminium, however, is low-maintenance, needing only an occasional wipe-down. It resists rust, corrosion, and fading from UV exposure, making it ideal for the UK's variable weather.
4. Weight
While glass tabletops can be heavy, they may still be unstable if not properly supported, making them vulnerable to wind damage. Cast aluminium is typically heavier and more stable, offering better wind resistance, which is essential in the UK’s gusty weather.
5. Style
Glass is chosen for its modern, clean look but may lack design variety. Cast aluminium offers more flexibility, with intricate designs and colour finishes that suit different garden aesthetics, adding visual appeal to outdoor furniture.
6. Environment
Glass production is energy-intensive, while cast aluminium is more eco-friendly with a lower carbon footprint and reduced transportation emissions due to its lighter weight. Both materials are recyclable, but aluminium’s long lifespan makes it a more sustainable choice.
7. Longevity
Glass can become scratched or cracked outdoors due to impacts and temperature changes. Cast aluminium is much more durable, resistant to chips and cracks, and maintains its appearance for years, especially in varying UK weather.
8. Comfort
Glass tabletops can be uncomfortable, as they retain heat in summer and become cold in winter. Cast aluminium is more comfortable year-round and offers practical features like parasol holes or additional storage space, enhancing its functionality in garden settings.
Our final thoughts…
Of course, we’re a little biased—and we love glass tables too! But even when toughened safety glass is used, glass tables are generally better suited for indoor spaces. That’s why we believe a cast aluminium table top is the smarter choice for UK gardens.
Metal offers far greater weather resistance. The cast aluminium we use is powder-coated for extra protection, making it far more resilient against the UK’s damp, rainy, and unpredictable climate. Glass, on the other hand, is prone to watermarks, cracks, and staining, which means more upkeep and a shorter lifespan.
Durability is another key factor. Glass can shatter or crack under pressure or impact, whereas cast aluminium is far sturdier and can be left outside year-round with minimal maintenance. Plus, it won’t develop water stains or require constant cleaning.
When it comes to style, our collection offers a wide range of design options, delivering a more textured and visually appealing look. Glass can sometimes feel cold or sterile in outdoor settings, whereas metal brings warmth and character to a space.
Stability is also worth serious consideration. Glass tabletops are often held in place with suction cups, making them vulnerable to accidents. A strong gust of wind or an enthusiastic dog (trust us, we’ve seen it happen!) can easily turn a glass-topped table into a disaster (the shards should be safe but you'll be finding them for months).
For us, the choice is clear. We love our cast aluminium collection because it offers exceptional durability, low maintenance, and long-term value. In a climate as unpredictable as the UK’s, it’s a practical, stylish, and reliable option—built to handle whatever the weather throws at it.
If you have one of our garden tables, we would love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload It Here.
