3 Essential Tips for Replacing a Glass Tabletop

Clear glass tabletops are every bit as attractive as they are practical, which is why so many homeowners make them the focal point of their living rooms. Years of use can leave them scratched, and when that happens, no amount of polishing will fix the problem. Replacing an old tabletop with a new one isn’t necessarily difficult, but you do want to be careful since glass can be fragile. By keeping these three tips in mind, replacing your old glass tabletop shouldn’t take very long.

1. Get An Exact Match For The Old Tabletop

Dimensions always matter when you’re working with furniture, so make sure that the new tabletop is more or less the same size as the old one. In some cases, a slightly larger top can fit on the same base, but you don’t want anything that isn’t secure when you put it on the pedestal. Ideally, you’d invest in a piece of glass that has the same exact size and shape of the one you’re replacing.

As well as the dimensions, you’ll also want to pay close attention to the color of the glass. Not all hard, clear glass plates are created equally. If you’re replacing a completely transparent tabletop, then make sure that there aren’t any imperfections in the new one you get. Homeowners who need a replacement for a frosted top will probably want one with the same pattern, unless they’re happy with a change.

2. Use a Local Glass Service Company

When it comes time to order a replacement, you need to work with a glass company that can get you a perfect replacement for your old tabletop. Always try to go to a local glass supply service that can look over your specifications and make recommendations based on the type of table you’re restoring. Ask if they can cut you a custom piece of glass to fit the dimensions of your table’s pedestal. Doing so will ensure that you get something that’s precisely made to the same dimensions as your original piece. You may want to share photos of the existing tabletop, since this will help the crew get an idea of what it is you’re looking for. Be sure to mention whether the original piece had any patterns etched into it so you don’t lose anything in the transition to a new tabletop.

3. Clean It Once You’re Done

Wipe the tabletop with a soft cloth and some glass cleaner once you’re done. Residue from your hands and the packing material can eventually work their way into the glass, leaving the same kind of ugly scratches that probably plagued your old tabletop. Once your new piece of glass is clean and dry, you’ll be able to use it like normal. Use this same process to clean the tabletop when you notice that it’s starting to attract dirt and grime.

Make sure not to put anything too heavy on your table, because hard glass can start to crack under stress. Take good care of your new piece of glass and it’s sure to be a beloved part of your living room for many years to come.