A Comprehensive Guide to Folding Tables

There are multiple advantages to folding tables. These versatile and flexible furnishings are not only a perfect solution where limited space is a factor, but also an easy option where storage limitations are concerned.

In this guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about folding tables, leaving you informed to make the ideal purchase.

Parts of a Folding Table

There may be some degree of differentiation between styles and materials of folding tables, but they will all come with the same basic parts:

• Tabletop

For any table to function correctly, it must have a tabletop. This is the surface that sits on top of the frame and will be used to fulfil that table’s use. These can be either plastic, wood, laminate or metal depending on the style of table.

• Lock Mechanism

To make a table sturdy and safe when it’s erected, a folding table needs lock mechanisms. The table legs slide into these mechanisms to stop the table wobbling or collapsing after being setup. When you wish to collapse the table, you can simply release the mechanism.

• Apron

The apron is a piece of metal that sits under the tabletop. Predominantly, these provide extra support, but also distribute weight more evenly across the table.

• Brace

Folding tables will usually come with two legs on either side. These are connected by a brace. The brace adds more support to the sides of the table, bringing stability when it’s in use.

• Legs

The legs allow the table to stand up, taking the weight of the tabletop and anything sat on top of the table. The legs ensure the table is practical for the end user.

• Foot caps

On the ends of each leg you might find a rubber or plastic cap. These foot caps protect the floor from scratches or other damage when you are moving tables around. They also minimise noise when tables are placed on the ground.

Shapes of Folding Tables

Like standard tables, folding tables come in all different shapes and sizes, each of which is more suited to a different scenario. Here are the most common types on the market, plus why you might choose them.

Round Folding Tables

The best thing about round folding tables is that when people sit around it, they are all facing one another. This makes round folding tables perfect for social occasions or work environments where you want everyone to converse with each other. Round tables are the best options for parties or functions like weddings where you wish to allow everyone to socialise.

Rectangular/Square Folding Tables

Rectangular and square folding tables have right angled edges, making them perfect for adding extra seating or space to put things on. These can be ideal for creating a long line of buffet food where you expect people to queue in single file.

They’re also ideal for fayres or conferences, where two people can lean over the table to exchange money or conversation.

Other Folding Tables

If there is some other shape of folding table you require, you’ll no doubt be able to find it. Other folding table shapes like trapezoidal, semi-circular, horseshoe and D-End are all widely available if they better suit your needs.

Materials of Folding Tables

Depending on how you intend to use your folding table, a certain type of material may be more or less suited. Here are the three most popular options.

Plastic Folding Tables

Cheap and low maintenance, plastic folding tables are great for those who need a versatile folding table that doesn’t need to be too flashy.

Easy to wipe down and lightweight for quick setup, plastic folding tables are great allrounders that can used for a variety of indoor and outdoor events.

Wood Folding Tables

Wooden folding tables provide a stylish, contemporary finish to the practicality of the folding table. Thanks to the classy look, wooden folding tables don’t need a tablecloth or other covering on top of the surface.

They’re ideal for upmarket outdoor events when the sun is shining, or simply to put your summer picnic on in the back garden.

Note that only the tabletop and perhaps the legs of a wooden folding table will be made from wood. The frame and mechanism will be made from metal, meaning there is no loss of stability.

Metal Folding Tables

Metal folding tables are the strongest of all available materials. Usually made from aluminium or steel, metal folding tables provide less in the way of design but more in practicality. This should be your choice if you plan to put the folding table to heavy duty use, such as placing heavy items on the tabletop.

Benefits of Folding Tables

Why would you need a folding table, and what can it bring to your workspace that a standard table couldn’t? These are the most significant benefits to choosing a folding table.

Adaptability and flexibility

Folding tables are a flexible option when you need furniture that’s able to fit a variety of different spaces. Being able to adapt the size of your table to fit your needs can be a particularly helpful asset and its versatility means you’re likely to keep it for years. Where available space is an important factor, the capability to fold your table away can be highly beneficial, allowing you to make the most of your room when the furniture is no longer required.

Being able to set up tables for a monthly meeting and then collapse them when they are no longer required, for example, allows you to conveniently adjust your setup as needed with minimal fuss.

Simple storage, transportation and deployment

Folding tables are incredibly simple to store. Where storage space itself is restricted, folding furniture allows you to maximise the room you have at your disposal.

Furniture that can fold up flat is also supremely easy to move from storage to locations where it’s required. Many folding tables also feature lockable wheels which can facilitate their efficient transit. Folding tables are extremely easy to set up too, taking a matter of seconds to erect.

A versatile selection of folding tables

Folding tables come in a multitude of designs and styles and are freely available in a wide selection of shapes and sizes. From metal and plastic to wood finishes, like maple and oak, there are many different materials used for different looks and feels. Find the fold away furniture that best suits your individual needs by perusing some of these standout options available.

Flip top folding tables are perfectly suited for impromptu meetings. From Carouseland Spear to Pivot, there are a variety of styles that are designed to keep things simple when it’s time to set up. These tilt top tables are widely available in a selection of shapes to suit your tastes, from semi-circular to trapezoidal. This highly durable furniture is beautifully finished with a choice of wood surfaces, such as walnut and beech, and plastic protection at the edges for longevity of use. Flip top folding tables also feature wheels for ease of movement and locking castors to secure them in place.

Gopak folding tables are an ideal option for irregular training sessions. Easy to set up and fold flat, they are perfect for storing when not in operation. This furniture is very sturdy and simple to use. With posi-lock mechanisms and wipe clean surfaces, they are both safe and easy to care for. Gopak folding tables are offered with a variety of different coloured tops to match your room’s décor. From Economy tables to Vantage folding tables, there are options to suit all budgets.

When you need to transport your tables quickly and over distance, plastic folding tables can be an excellent choice. Extremely lightweight, these options are very easy to move. Available in a range of shapes, from circular to rectangular, as well as different sizes, there are also options with adjustable height features and some you can hold like luggage - such as the Easy carry folding table.

Folding tables are a valuable part of most businesses, especially those that hold lots of events or are constantly moving around the country presenting to customers and clients. Browse Furniture At Work’s broad selection of folding tables and you’ll be sure to find exactly what you need.