The Ultimate Guide To Picnic Tables

Whether you're looking to furnish a school playground or outfit a public park, picnic tables are a versatile and inviting option for outdoor seating. Picnic Furniture offers an unparalleled selection of commercial-grade picnic tables built to withstand heavy public use in parks, schools, restaurants, community spaces, and more. With many styles, sizes, and materials available, it can feel overwhelming to select the perfect picnic tables for your needs. This definitive guide covers everything you need to confidently choose the ideal picnic tables to bring people together in your outdoor space.

Why Your Facility Should Use Commercial Picnic Tables

 

When selecting durable outdoor furniture for your facility, understanding the importance of commercial picnic tables is key to creating welcoming and functional spaces. Commercial picnic tables are specially designed for intensive public use, with sturdy construction that stands up to heavy foot traffic, rain or shine. Investing in quality commercial-grade picnic tables rather than standard residential tables ensures your outdoor dining and hangout spaces remain inviting and functional for years of enjoyment.

Built from durable materials like powder-coated steel, concrete, and recycled plastic lumber, commercial picnic tables resist dents, stains, and deterioration far better than average picnic tables. Their strength and stability also help reduce the risk of injuries. For long-lasting picnic tables perfect for busy parks, schools, restaurants, apartments, or other public facilities, be sure to choose wisely and rely on high-quality commercial-grade products.

CTA: Learn more about improving the park experience with furniture.

 

Types of Picnic Tables

 

Picnic tables come in an array of shapes, sizes, and constructions to suit commercial settings. These factors will affect how you arrange your seating area, so it's important to choose wisely. Consider how you plan to use the space and who will be using it to determine the best picnic table style for your needs.

CTA: Discover your furniture layout's impact on park enjoyment.

Rectangular Picnic Tables

The traditional rectangular picnic table design features bench seating on either side of a rectangular tabletop. This classic table style offers plenty of seating and table space for gatherings large and small. Rectangular picnic tables come in various lengths, typically ranging from 4 feet up to 12 feet. Opt for a shorter 4- or 6-foot picnic table for small patios and spaces or a longer 8- to 12-foot size for accommodating larger groups.

Square Picnic Tables

Commercial square picnic tables built with bench seating circling all four sides provide a more contemporary look. The spacious square tabletop offers ample room for food and activities. Square picnic tables are a great choice for encouraging interaction since people can face each other across the table. Typical sizes are around 4 feet or more.

Round Picnic Tables

Circle or oval picnic tables make a fun focal point for any outdoor space. Curved benches fully surround the round tabletop and allow for more versatile seating arrangements. Round picnic table top diameters commonly range from 3 feet up to 4 feet. Choose a smaller round picnic table for cozier two- to four-person seating or larger diameters to accommodate six or more.

Octagon Picnic Tables

For a unique shape, octagon picnic tables feature eight sides with seating around the perimeter. The octagonal design encourages interaction across the table. Octagonal picnic table sizes generally include a 4 feet table top across from the opposite sides. The eight-sided shape works well in larger outdoor areas.

ADA Accessible Picnic Tables

ADA-compliant picnic tables feature an extended table top and specific bench seat widths to accommodate wheelchairs. Look for picnic tables advertised as ADA-compliant or ADA-accessible to ensure suitable wheelchair seating space. ADA picnic tables follow strict specifications and regulations for disabled access.

Kids Picnic Tables

Kids picnic tables are sized perfectly for children, typically with shorter table heights and bench depths sized for smaller bodies. Look for kid's picnic tables with tabletops between 18-20 inches high and bench seats around 11 inches deep. Durable plastic and metal kid's picnic tables tend to withstand outdoor use and play best. Child-friendly picnic table designs feature bright colors to help them stand out in playgrounds or commercial play areas.

 

Picnic Table Materials

 

Picnic tables are constructed from a range of materials, each with its own aesthetic appeal, durability, and maintenance needs.

Wood Picnic Tables

 

Wood is a popular choice for picnic tables because of its attractive natural look. Moreover, certain types of wood, such as cedar and redwood, are known for their resistance to rot, decay, and insects. It is important to make sure that the wood is sourced from sustainable forests. Additionally, pressure-treated yellow pine has impressive weather resistance. Those who choose wood for picnic tables may need to seal and stain it annually to keep it in good condition.

Metal Picnic Tables

Metal picnic tables provide a highly durable, long-lasting solution to your commercial picnic table needs. Powder-coated steel and vinyl-coated expanded metal picnic tables resist rust, scratches, and rain damage. Other metal options like aluminum offer lightweight durability. Avoid cheaper metal picnic tables prone to denting.

CTA: Compare metal and wood picnic table options.

Plastic Picnic Tables

Plastic picnic tables provide a fantastic low-maintenance option. Common plastic table materials include thermoplastic, fiberglass, and recycled plastic. Polyethylene and polypropylene are resistant to weather, water, stains, and UV rays. Plastic lumber made from recycled milk jugs or plastic bags makes a more environmentally friendly choice. Plastic picnic tables also won’t rot, split, or deteriorate like wood.

Concrete Picnic Tables

These heavy-duty picnic tables provide exceptional durability and longevity in an attractive, contemporary style. Concrete’s solid, sturdy construction withstands heavy use with little maintenance required. Concrete picnic tables come in various hues, so select a color that complements your landscape. Keep the table's weight in mind when choosing a location — concrete is a very heavy material and in most cases, assembly is required.

CTA: Discover the longevity of concrete tables.

Choosing the Perfect Picnic Tables for Your Needs

Your intended use, setting, and priorities will guide you in selecting picnic tables tailored to your unique requirements.

Park Picnic Tables

Public parks require sturdy picnic tables able to withstand heavy use. Powder-coated steel, concrete, or recycled plastic picnic tables resist nicks, stains, and water damage from high traffic. Make sure at least some tables are ADA-compliant for accessibility. Portable picnic tables maximize seating flexibility for busy venues.

Campground Picnic Tables

Campgrounds call for the most rugged and weather-resistant picnic table options. Powder-coated steel and recycled plastic excel in outdoor environments. Metal or plastic picnic tables won’t deteriorate like real wood. Choose heavy, anchored picnic tables that can’t be moved or stolen. ADA-accessible tables also come in handy around campgrounds.

Restaurant Picnic Tables

Restaurants benefit from attractive real wood picnic tables that match patio décor and draw customers outside. Teak, cedar, or redwood resist spills and food stains. Look for solid picnic table frames that can support frequent repositioning, as well as umbrella holes to keep diners cool and comfortable in the shade.

School & Playground Tables

Schools, playgrounds, and rec areas need picnic tables able to withstand rowdy use from kids and teens. Opt for puncture-proof thermoplastic or vandal-resistant metal able to handle engraving or carving attempts. Anchor or bolt down picnic tables to deter theft. Kids picnic tables are well suited for young users.

Pool Area Picnic Tables

Select picnic tables with drainage holes to prevent puddles around outdoor pool areas. Avoid real wood that will deteriorate quickly from moisture and chemicals. Recycled plastic and concrete picnic tables make excellent choices for poolside use. Look for styles with umbrella holes to shelter tables on hot sunny days.

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Choosing the Right Size

 

Consider the number of people you want to seat and how much tabletop workspace you need to determine the ideal picnic table size.

Small Picnic Tables (4 foot)

• Perfect for small patios and yards
• Seats 4–6 people comfortably
• Great for kids’ spaces
• Good for cozy two-person meals

Medium Picnic Tables (6 foot)

• Seats 6–8 people
• Ideal for picnic areas and parks
• Provides ample tabletop space

Large Picnic Tables (8 foot)

• Seats 8–10 people
• Accommodates large groups
• Offers expansive tabletop area
• Works well for long potluck-style tables
• Comfortably fits wheelchairs on ADA tables

Extra-Long Picnic Tables (10 – 12 foot)

• Seats 10+ people
• Made for very large groups
• Provides maximum seating capacity
• Offers oversized tabletop space

 

Picnic Table Maintenance & Care

 

Taking proper care of picnic tables ensures they remain in top condition and provide many years of outdoor enjoyment for guests or customers. Follow these tips to keep each material type looking its best.

Wood Picnic Tables

Wood picnic tables built from cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine can last for decades with proper maintenance. Here are some best practices:

• Inspect regularly for splinters, loose bolts, cracks, or deteriorated wood that could pose safety hazards. Make any needed repairs right away.
• Sand down any splintered surfaces and replace deteriorated wood as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
• Wash occasionally with mild soap and water to remove dirt, food stains, and debris. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
• Allow the wood to dry completely before applying protective sealants or finishes.
• Sand lightly and re-stain or seal wood annually before cold weather arrives to protect from moisture damage. Apply two coats of exterior wood sealant.
• Consider covering when not in use for extended periods to protect from sun, rain, snow, and pests.

 

Plastic Picnic Tables

Plastic lumber picnic tables made from recycled polyethylene or polypropylene require very little maintenance compared to real wood. Follow these care tips:

• Wash regularly with mild soap and warm water using a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning and allow to dry completely.
• Wipe up food, drinks, and other spills promptly to prevent staining. A mix of mild soap and bleach can help remove stubborn stains.
• Avoid strong solvents or cleaners which could interact with the plastic and cause cracking.
• For engraved vandalism, sand lightly and apply an exterior-grade wood filler before repainting with plastic-compatible spray paints.
• Tighten loose bolts securing the benches and frames as needed to ensure stability and safety.

 

Concrete Picnic Tables

Concrete makes a highly durable yet low-maintenance picnic table option. Follow these tips to clean and protect concrete picnic tables:

• Rinse off with water monthly using a hose or pressure washer to prevent heavy dirt and grime buildup.
• For tougher stains, use a non-corrosive concrete cleaner and scrub brush to gently lift stains without etching the surface.
• Avoid placing excessively heavy loads on the concrete tabletop, which could cause cracks over time.
• Inspect routinely for cracks or damage. Fill small cracks with concrete filler epoxy and monitor for continued wear.
• Consider applying concrete sealers annually or as needed to protect the finish from staining. Re-apply after cleaning.
• If possible, store concrete picnic tables inside during winter freeze-thaw cycles to prevent ice expansion damage.

 

Metal Picnic Tables

Metal picnic tables stand up well to outdoor elements but benefit from periodic cleaning and maintenance:

• Wash regularly with warm soapy water using a soft cloth, sponge, or brush. Avoid abrasives that could scratch metal finishes.
• Rinse thoroughly after washing and allow the metal to dry fully before storing away.
• Apply touch-up paint as soon as you notice scratches or chips to prevent rust damage.
• Watch for fading over time. Sand lightly before recoating with fresh exterior-grade spray paint.
• Frequently check and tighten hardware such as bolts and braces to ensure stability and safety.
• Avoid leaving unfinished steel picnic tables outdoors; only use aluminized or galvanized steel.

CTA: Learn more about ensuring safety with metal picnic tables.

 

All Picnic Tables

In addition to material-specific maintenance, keep these general care guidelines in mind for all picnic tables:

• Routinely clean by washing off dirt, food, and debris with mild soap and water. Disinfect occasionally with an approved outdoor disinfectant.
• Watch for hazards like splinters, cracks, loose hardware, instability, etc., and make any needed repairs right away.
• Always wipe spills immediately to prevent staining on any picnic table type.
• Consider covering with water-resistant furniture covers when not in use for extended periods to protect from sun, rain, snow, and other elements.
• Avoid dragging tables across grass or rough surfaces to prevent scuffing. Lift fully when moving.
• Don't overload tabletops over recommended weight capacities to prevent damage.
• Check that leg levelers are adjusted evenly to prevent rocking and instability.

CTA: Explore our Top Tips for Picnic Table Maintenance.

 

Top Picnic Table Accessories

Consider adding these popular accessories to enhance your picnic table experience:

• Picnic Table Umbrellas: Provide shade on sunny days
• Picnic Table Covers: Protect tables from weather, dirt, and debris when not in use
• Picnic Table Benches: Extra benches for flexible seating arrangements
• Picnic Table Anchor Kits: Secure picnic tables in place with anchors with inground or surface mount options

 CTA: Check out our article on Securing Your Picnic Tables.

Picnic Furniture: Your Source for Quality Commercial Picnic Tables

With decades of experience furnishing commercial properties, Picnic Furniture provides unparalleled quality, selection, and customization to suit any commercial setting. Browse our catalog of picnic tables built from high-grade thermoplastic, aluminum, wood, fiberglass, recycled plastic, and concrete designed for longevity and heavy public use. If you need help selecting the ideal picnic tables, our team is ready to provide expert guidance tailored to your facility. Invest in the perfect picnic tables from Picnic Furniture to complete your outdoor space.

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FAQs

What is the most durable picnic table material?

Recycled plastic, concrete, and powder or plastic-coated steel picnic tables are typically the most durable options for outdoor use. Plastic lumber made from recycled milk jugs or plastic bags makes an especially environmentally friendly and low-maintenance choice.

What is the average size of a picnic table?

The most common picnic table size is about 6 feet long, perfect for seating 6-8 people comfortably. Rec center and restaurant picnic tables are often 8 feet long to accommodate accommodating larger groups. Park and school picnic tables can be as small as 4 feet for a cozier fit.

How do you anchor a picnic table?

Secure picnic tables with anchoring kits designed to bolt the tables into concrete footings or existing patio surfaces. For grass or gravel areas, inground mounts are available to fix the picnic tables in place. You can also temporarily weigh picnic tables down with umbrella bases, coolers, or other heavy objects when needed.