Epoxy tables combine natural wood with epoxy resin. Depending on the design, they also include pigments, a metal or wooden table base, protective finishes, and other materials.
The type of wood, resin, finish, and base all affect the table's appearance, durability, and, not to mention, its final price. In this guide, we're taking a closer look at the materials that are commonly used in epoxy tables.
Main Materials Used for Epoxy Tables
Which materials are used for epoxy tables? Regarding the main part, the table top, epoxy resin and wood are the core components. Pigments or dyes can be added to give epoxy the color or create decorative effects. Of course, the table also needs a base or legs, and the surface is usually finished with a protective coating.
What Kind of Epoxy Is Used for Tables?
The type of epoxy you need depends largely on the pour depth. Thick pours require a formulation different from the resin intended for a thin surface coating. As we have already mentioned, epoxy can be left clear or mixed with pigments to achieve a particular color or effect.
Deep-Pour Epoxy for River Tables
So, what kind of epoxy is used for river tables? In most cases, it is deep-pour epoxy, which is formulated for thicker pours. In an epoxy river table, epoxy fills the space between two pieces of wood.
Product from the image: Ocean Art Resin River Dining Table
Tabletop Epoxy for Protective Coating
Tabletop epoxy is made for thinner applications. It is usually spread over the surface in a single layer. After a full cure, it gives the table top a glossy finish that helps protect the wood and resin surface from everyday wear.
Product from the image: American Black Walnut Slab Conference table
Clear, Colored & Pigmented Epoxy
While epoxy resin is naturally clear, colorants are often added before pouring. The resin may be transparent, smoky, black, blue, white, gold, metallic, or mixed in several shades, resulting in an impressive range of design options.
Product from the image: Abstract Epoxy Table
What Is the Best Wood for Epoxy Tables?
Many types of wood can be used for epoxy tables, each with its unique color and grain.
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Walnut epoxy tables are among the most popular options. Walnut's dark color and pronounced grain create a strong contrast with resin.
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Maple features a light creamy color and gentle grain.
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If you prefer noticeable grain, consider oak. It usually ranges from light tan to medium brown, often with warm golden tones.
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Poplar is known for its light, soft tones.
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Cherry's warm reddish-brown color tends to deepen over time.
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Ash is usually pale beige to light brown, with a strong, open grain, making it well suited to designs where the wood itself is a major visual feature.
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Olive wood stands out for its irregular grain.
So, which types of wood are best for epoxy tables? In fact, there is no single best wood for every epoxy table. The condition of the slab, its moisture content, and proper preparation are just as important as the species itself.
Hardwood vs Softwood for Epoxy Tables
Manufacturers prefer hardwoods, including walnut, oak, maple, cherry, and ash, for epoxy tables. These types of wood are denser and more resistant to dents and wear, as well as come in a broad range of grain patterns and colors.
On the other hand, softwoods, such as pine and cedar, are lighter and more prone to denting than hardwoods. That said, they can be used with epoxy, but the wood needs to be properly dried and prepared.
Pigments, Dyes & Decorative Additives
Color and visual effects in epoxy tables come from pigments, dyes, inks, and powders mixed into the resin. The material affects the transparency or the depth of color, as well as whether the finished surface appears solid, metallic, pearlescent, or layered.
Liquid pigments are often used for strong, even colour, while transparent dyes tint the resin without fully hiding what is underneath. Alcohol inks can create flowing patterns and color transitions.
Metallic and mica powders add shimmer and movement to the resin. Pearlescent additives create a reflective effect, while glow pigments can make parts of the table visible in the darkness after exposure to light.
Table Bases, Legs & Structural Components
The base supports the tabletop and affects how stable the finished table feels. It's important to match the base's design to the size and weight of the wood-and-epoxy table top.
Common options include metal legs, steel frames, wooden bases, pedestal bases, and U-shaped or X-shaped legs. Larger dining and conference tables may need custom bases to provide enough support across the full length of the tabletop.
The choice of base also changes the overall style of the table. Slim metal legs can give it a light, modern look, while solid wood or pedestal bases create a heavier visual profile.
Finishes & Protective Coatings
Once the tabletop is complete, the surface is finished to protect the wood and resin from scratches and moisture. In many cases, this is a sealant, oil, polyurethane, or a thin layer of epoxy. Some high-quality epoxy products also contain UV stabilizers that help slow yellowing caused by light exposure.
How to Choose the Right Materials for Your Epoxy Table
The right combination of wood, epoxy, finish, and base depends on how you're going to use the table and what you want it to look like.
If you're looking for a dining or bar table, durability should come first. In this case, shop for pieces with a hardwood top and a finish that can handle regular cleaning and everyday wear.
Coffee and side tables usually face lighter use and lower loads, so there is more flexibility when choosing the wood, epoxy, and design.
The epoxy design should also suit the room where the table will be used. Epoxy river tables work well in minimalist and industrial interiors. Live-edge river tables beautifully complement rustic interiors. Smaller river tables can also work well in compact interiors, where they add the same visual effect without dominating the room.
Pearlescent resin is a good fit if you want the table to stand out more. Ocean designs naturally suit coastal and beach-inspired interiors, while tables with flowers or other botanical elements are an excellent choice for nature-inspired settings. Glowing epoxy looks truly unusual, and often makes the most sense in bars or game rooms.
While ThunderWood Studio offers a wide range of epoxy tables, we also take on custom epoxy projects. You can design your own project with the help of our user-friendly tool, which allows you to select the table type, shape, wood, epoxy design, resin color, decorative elements, finish, and legs. Available options include walnut, maple, oak, and poplar, along with clear, opaque, pearlescent, and custom resin designs.
Common Mistakes in Choosing Epoxy Table Materials
Looking at Color Without Considering Resin Quality
The resin of your choice might be looking gorgeous in photos, but its quality matters, too. Ask what type of epoxy is used and whether it offers professional-grade clarity and resistance to yellowing.
Choosing Wood Only for Its Appearance
Grain and color are important, but the wood should also be suitable for furniture use. Poorly prepared wood can crack or separate from the resin over time.
Overlooking the Base
A large epoxy tabletop can be heavy, so the base should be sized and built to properly support it. This is especially important for dining and conference tables.
Ignoring the Finish
The finish should match the way you plan to use the table. A dining or bar table needs a surface that can handle regular cleaning and everyday wear, while a decorative side table may not need the same level of protection.
Opting for a Design That Is Hard to Live With
Bold colors, metallic effects, flowers, or glowing pigments can make the table look like a piece of art. However, they will likely have a strong influence on the room. Before buying, take your time to consider whether the design will really complement your interior.