Wood Slabs for Table Tops | Live Edge Table Top Slab | Alderfer Lumber

What Is Live Edge Table Top?

Live edge refers to the untouched and unaltered wood edges. That said, a live edge table top is not a typical table top with even and fine edges. Instead, it has a rugged, unbalanced natural edge. It retains the beauty of the tree it was cut from.

This kind of tabletop is unique and holds more character. Part of the tree’s structure is maintained and preserved in a live edge. Though it might get hard eating or doing anything with uneven edges, live edge tables are still popular and functional in many ways.

Best Live Edge Woods for Table Tops

With many wood choices, it is understandable that one needs clarification to select the best piece for table tops. The next best thing is to listen to experts’ recommendations. Here is a list of our recommended woods for a live-edge tabletop:

• Black walnut
• Cherry
• Maple
• Redwood
• Red oak
• Sycamore
• White oak

Solid woods are best for a live edge dining table. You can still choose many options, but it is best to choose domestic wood available in your area, whether you're creating a dining table, conference table, coffee table, console table, or other table styles. This will help curb the cost as live edge table tops can be expensive.

Care and Maintenance Tips for Live Edge Table Top

Table tops are prone to spills and stains, which can lead to the fast deterioration of the wood. A tabletop is often sealed to ensure that stains and spills are not in contact with the wood. Unfortunately, seals also weaken over time. Thus, it is important to re-seal the table top regularly to ensure that the wood underneath remains protected.

You should also wipe stains and spills immediately. Do not wait for them to dry or get seeped through cracks and absorbed by the wood. When cleaning, use natural and chemical-free cleaning products only. A mild soap or detergent works too. And always end by wiping the surface with a dry cloth to remove any moisture residue. Leftover moisture can hasten the deterioration of any wood surfaces.

FAQs

Are live edge table tops still in style?

Yes, they are. Live edge table tops never went out of style. Due to their classic elegance and natural beauty, this design is timeless. It also fits well in contemporary and rustic interiors and minimalist designs. Right now, most live edge pieces are used in a mixture of Western and rustic-styled homes. And though it is believed that the live edge trend started in the 1600s in America, there is no clear indication that this centuries-old design will be out of style soon.

How thick should a tabletop be?

The thickness of a wood slab table top depends on its design. But the typical thickness is between 1 to 1 ¾ inches. This size range isn’t too thick nor too thin and is just a standard for most mid-range and regular tables. However, the extent of how thick wood slab tables must be based on the overall appearance of the table. If custom-made, it should also be proportionate to the interior space. A larger space may require a table with a thicker top than 1 to 1 ¾ inches.

Is it expensive to have a live edge table top?

Yes, a live edge table top can be expensive. The price depends on the wood used, size, and other factors that affect the table's construction.

Where to Buy Live Edge Table Top

Buying a live edge table top is made easy with the right dealer. We at Alderfer Lumber Company Inc produce high-quality live edge furniture, including solid wood table tops!

As a specialty lumber dealer, we have a wide range of available live edge wood that we can convert into your dream table top! We also guarantee that all our wood is sourced sustainably, properly dried, and carefully handled.

You can always check our online inventory. But, if you can’t find what you are looking for, you can contact us with your specific requirements.