What to Do for a Patio Table With a Broken Top?

Glass and ceramic tile are the materials most often used for patio tabletops. These are relatively easy to clean and fit with any decor style. Harsh winds may tip patio tables over and break the tabletop. Dropping a heavy object on a tabletop can also break it. Patio tables are often a considerable investment, and replacing the whole table could prove expensive. Instead, there are options for fixing and replacing the top while keeping the original table frame. Does this Spark an idea?

Fix the Broken Pieces

Epoxy glue makes fusing the broken tabletop pieces together fairly easy, requiring very little expense to fix the table. This works best when the top is broken into large pieces that line up evenly; small and missing broken pieces make this method difficult or impossible. Choose an epoxy glue designed for the tabletop material. You can usually find glass and ceramic epoxy glue at most craft stores. These often consists of two parts that you mix together and then apply liberally to the edge of one of the broken pieces. Applying too much resin may prevent a tight bond between the materials. Allow the glue to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions, and then scrape away any excess glue with a razor blade.

Replacement Pieces

Fixing a patio table with a broken top may be as simple as purchasing replacement pieces for the table. Hardware stores and other glass retailers can custom cut a piece of glass to fit the table if you can't find a replacement piece in the correct size. Choose from clear glass, frosted glass or frosted glass with a pattern. Patio tables with tile tops are often sold with a few extra tiles in case the top gets broken. If you don't have extra tiles or have used up the spares, visit your local home improvement store for a wide selection of replacement tiles. Take a sample tile with you, or measure the area to ensure you purchase new tiles that fit.

Mosaic Top

If you have the patience and some artistic ability, a mosaic tabletop may be the best choice for your broken top. Cut a piece of plywood or metal to fit inside the lip of the patio table frame. Use a hole saw to cut a hole through the center for the patio umbrella if applicable. You can choose a picture mosaic or create a design, then transfer this to the tabletop. Fill in the design with broken tile pieces, and adhere them with mosaic glue after laying out the design. When you've finished, fill in the gaps with mosaic grout. Purchase new tiles for the project, or incorporate pieces of the old tabletop, broken ceramic pieces or broken glass.

Custom Wood Top

Wood is not commonly used for patio tabletops, but it will not break if the table is accidentally knocked over. This is perhaps the best choice for areas with high winds where tables are commonly blown over. Use a solid sheet of plywood cut to fit in the frame, or insert several pieces of smaller lumber. For a rustic look, you can glue cross sections of wood onto a plywood backing. Water damage is a major concern with outdoor wood pieces, but you can use water sealer to protect the wood for years.