We receive a lot of inquiries about leaf self-storage in our tables, such as how it works and how many leaves can be stored. This blog post will elaborate on the fundamentals of storing leaves and the available options.
Table leaves are added to tables to make them longer. The majority of our table leaves are 12" wide.
1) What is leaf self-storage?
This term applies to the ability to store leaves underneath the tabletop. The leaves are placed horizontally on top of the table base or on mounting plates that hold the leaves when not in use.
Our builders use quality geared slides to allow you to open your table easily. Leg tables and tables with five or more extensions have solid wood table slides.
2) What tables can self-store?
Trestle and double pedestal tables are the most common types of tables that can store leaves. While leg tables can technically offer self-storage, a center support leg must remain in place throughout the entire time the leaves are stored to preserve the integrity of the tabletop. Therefore, they are not the best choice for storage.
3) How Many Leaves Can Tables Store?
Table leaves store underneath the tabletop. This unique design allows them to rest on the mounting plate, hidden by the table and table skirts. Each leaf has the dimensions as the table. Most tops are 1" thick, and skirts are 2.5"-4" tall. Our tables can store no more than four leaves.
Once a table has more than four extensions, self-storage becomes unfeasible. First the table needs longer table slides, which take up extra space, under the table top. Secondly, we utilize drop down legs to support the table length once the table has five or more leaves. These get stored where the leaves would otherwise store. Lastly, the amount of space more than four leaves would take up would mean the leaves would not fit into the space under the table top and above the base.
4) What about the skirts on the table?
This question is what varies by each table style and even by each table size. The width and length of the table, determines how many leaves can be stored and how many can have skirts. In some cases, the leaves can all have skirts, while some cannot. Our team can help you navigate what is possible for the table you are considering.
5) Are there table styles or top shapes that cannot self store?
Single pedestal tables or round table tops are not able to self-store leaves. Most oval table shapes either cannot store any leaves or they can store a reduced quantity based on the configuration.
6) Is self-storage automatically applied to my table?
Leaf self-storage is not applied automatically to table orders. It must be specified when ordering so our builders know to add it. Some of our tables have the ability to request this directly on the website, while others can be added to an order by our exceptional sales team.
7) What can I do with my leaves if I don't store them in my table?
We recommend storing them in your home where the temperature and humidity is similar to your table (i.e.: the same floor or a bedroom). We do not recommend storing them in the basement, garage or attic. Hardwood is susceptible to humidity and temperature changes. The best storage is to lay them flat under a bed or on a shelf. You can find table leaf storage bags at Amazon, Home Depot and more.
There are benefits to self-storage, but there are also limitations. When choosing your table, it is good to consider how often you will use your leaves and where they can be stored when not in use. We hope this has been beneficial in understanding self-storage.