Applications

HPL table top

HPL table tops are available in the standard variant of HPL sheets, as well as the branded HPL sheets from Trespa®. Due to its composition, HPL is a sturdy sheet. So, remember – the thicker the HPL sheet is, the more this sturdy sheet will weigh. HPL table tops are ideal for use as desktops, workbenches or garden tables. This is because HPL is scratch resistant, durable and hygienic. This makes HPL the ideal material to use for a table top.

  • Fully customised
  • Easy ordering
  • Wide choice of colours

Ordering a made-to-measure HPL table top is quick and easy

On the product pages you will find a simple order module where you can order your panels made-to-measure. You can even add drill holes or cut-outs. Do you need a very special shape? Then upload your own DXF file. We explain how to create a DXF file in this short video tutorial. This ensures that you get a table top that is totally customised to your wishes.

Specifications
HPL panels
Pro's & cons HPL / Trespa®
  • Hard wearing top layer
  • Hard and solid material
  • Hygienic due to high molecular density
  • Only 20 mm sheets can tolerate overhangs
Density 1.394 kg/m²/mm

What thickness do you need for a table top?

When mounting onto an existing table top, even the narrowest thickness of 3 mm HPL will suffice, because the sheet will be fully supported. The minimum thickness when replacing a table top depends on how much the sheet will be supported by the frame and legs.

When the frame provides very good support and the sheet is supported by a cross all around and also in the middle, a 6 mm board is suitable. When a sheet has minimal support and really needs to support itself, we recommend a 20 mm sheet.

Inspiration HPL table tops

HPL table top Wood
HPL table top work
HPL table top desk
HPL table top workbench
HPL table top rotan

Our advice

Fixing the HPL table top

If you have holes milled in the sheet when ordering, you can use these holes to attach the sheet as soon as it arrives. With this fixing method, you will see the screws from above. This is probably not the first choice for a lounge or kitchen table, but more for a worktable.

By countersinking the holes (which you have to do yourself), you can ensure that the screw heads do not come above the surface. So with this fixing method, you achieve an even effect with no holes or screws visible from the top.

It is also possible to glue or seal your HPL table top. Use our glue calculator to find out which glue is best for the job.

Gluing this material

Do you want to glue this material to another material? Then use this adhesive calculator to check which adhesive is most suitable for the job.

Comparing HPL, acrylic, polycarbonate, glass and wood

Below is a table showing the properties of materials suitable for use as table tops. We compare acrylic, HPL, polycarbonate, glass and wood. This lets you take a closer look at the differences and find out which material best suits your needs.

HPL Acrylic Polycarbonate Glass Wood
UV resistant + + + + + + + + +
Impact resistant + + + + - +
Weatherproof + + + + + + + -
Scratch resistant + + - - - + + +
Hygienic + + + + + + + + -
Does not warp + + + + + -

Maintaining HPL table tops

Your HPL table top is easy to clean with soapy water and a soft cloth.

4 HPL table top applications

HPL is a suitable material to use as a table top. These are the four most commonly chosen applications:

  • Desktop
  • Workbench
  • Table top
  • Garden table

1. Desktop

There are two options for a new HPL desktop. An HPL desktop without support of an existing desktop, and an HPL desktop with support of an existing desktop.

Are you choosing an HPL desktop without the support of an existing desktop? Then we recommend HPL with a minimum thickness of 20 mm. In addition, a good supporting frame is important. If you choose to attach an HPL desktop to your existing desktop, the thickness doesn’t matter. Simply use double-sided tape or glue for fastening.

If you are looking for a desktop in a specific shape, you can easily order it fully custom-made in our webshop. Measure your desired desktop and order it to size using the order module or your own DXF file. Remember that the HPL desktop must be supported well.

HPL table top desk

2. Workbench

With a new worktop on your workbench, you are ready to work again. Choose a thin HPL sheet and glue it onto your current workbench. We explain step by step how to do this in the blog ‘Making an HPL table top for your workbench’.

HPL table top work
HPL table top workbench

3. Custom-made indoor table top

Tables in oval, round or rectangular shapes can easily be fitted with a made-to-measure HPL table top. If you opt for an HPL sheet on your current table, a thin HPL sheet is sufficient. If you are going to replace the table top completely, choose a minimum thickness of 20 mm and make sure the table top is supported well by the frame.

Be careful with hot objects such as pans, and always use coasters. Very sharp objects can cause scratches.

4. Garden table

HPL table tops are ideal for outdoor use. The same rules apply as they do for indoor table tops. HPL is weather and UV resistant. But try to avoid that the sheet is permanently exposed to water.

Be careful with hot objects such as pans, and always use coasters. Very sharp objects can cause scratches.

Oval table top
HPL table top Wood
HPL table top rotan

Frequently asked questions