Best Edge Types for Glass Table Tops

Choosing the right edge finish for a glass table top is just as important as selecting the correct thickness, size, or shape. The edge profile affects not only the look and feel of the table, but also its safety, durability, and suitability for specific home environments. Whether you’re upgrading a dining table, creating a modern desk surface, or protecting a wooden table with custom glass, understanding your edge options will help you make a confident and informed decision.

This guide explains the most popular edge types for glass table tops, their pros and cons, when to use each style, and safety considerations under UK and EU standards.

Why Edge Type Matters

The edge of a glass table top influences:

Safety – Smooth, treated edges reduce the risk of cuts and chips.
Durability – Proper finishing prevents micro-fractures that can weaken the glass.
Design aesthetics – The edge finish plays a major role in the style of the table.
Practical use – Sharp or decorative edges may not be ideal for busy households.

For guidance on selecting glass thickness or customisation options, you can learn more here.

Most Popular Edge Types for Glass Table Tops

1. Flat Polished Edge

The flat polished edge (also called “flat grind” or “flat edge”) is one of the most common choices for modern homes. The glass is cut, ground to a smooth flat surface, and then polished to a glossy finish.

Best For:

Dining tables
Desks
Minimalist interior designs

Advantages:

Smooth, safe, and modern appearance
Highly durable and resistant to chipping
Easy to clean and maintain

Drawbacks:

Simple look may be too minimal for decorative furniture

2. Bevelled Edge

A bevelled edge features an angled cut—typically between 10 and 45 degrees—before transitioning to a flat surface. This creates a decorative, light-reflecting edge.

Best For:

Accent tables
Entryway furniture
Traditional or elegant interiors

Advantages:

Visually striking and elegant
Reflects light beautifully
Adds decorative detail without overwhelming design

Drawbacks:

More expensive due to extra craftsmanship
Edges can be thinner at the bevel, making them more delicate

3. Pencil Polished Edge

This rounded edge has a smooth, semi-circular finish resembling the curve of a pencil. It offers a softer look and reduces sharpness.

Best For:

Homes with children or pets
Rounded or oval table tops
Everyday dining tables

Advantages:

Safer than many other profiles
Attractive for curved shapes
Feels comfortable to the touch

Drawbacks:

Less decorative than bevelled edges
Modern but not highly premium in appearance

4. Ogee Edge

The ogee edge is a decorative, sculpted profile featuring an S-shaped curve. It’s more common in high-end furniture and classical interior styles.

Best For:

Luxury dining tables
Traditional interiors
Statement furniture pieces

Advantages:

Delivers a premium, artistic look
Ideal for antique-style tables

Drawbacks:

Most expensive edge type
Less suitable for modern or minimalist spaces
Harder to clean due to curved grooves

5. Seamed Edge

A seamed edge is simply sanded to remove sharpness but not fully polished. It provides basic safety for glass placed inside frames or structures where edges are not visible.

Best For:

Glass that will be inset into a frame
Supporting glass shelves
Workshop or commercial applications

Advantages:

Low cost
Provides basic safety

Drawbacks:

Not suitable for exposed table top edges
Not decorative

Safety Standards and Regulations

In the UK and EU, safety regulations require certain types of glass to be used in domestic furniture to reduce the risk of injury. The most relevant standards include:

EN 12150 – European standard for thermally toughened safety glass.
EN 14449 – Standard for laminated safety glass.
BS 6262 – UK standard covering glazing in buildings, including safety glass requirements.

According to the Glass and Glazing Federation, table tops in homes should be made using toughened or laminated safety glass to minimise risk of injury. For detailed technical information on safety glass behaviour, see guidance from Pilkington’s safety and security glass resources. Additionally, the UK Government provides regulations on safety glazing in building environments, accessible through the Approved Document K.

How to Choose the Best Edge Type

1. Consider Safety First

If you have young children or pets, pencil polished or flat polished edges offer safer handling. Avoid sharp bevels or delicate sculpted edges.

2. Match the Style of the Furniture

Modern homes: Flat polished or pencil polish
Traditional or luxury interiors: Bevelled or ogee edges
Minimalist spaces: Flat polished

3. Think About Table Shape

For round or oval tables, pencil polished edges follow the curve more naturally. For rectangular tops, flat polished or bevelled edges are most popular.

4. Evaluate Maintenance Needs

Simpler edges like flat polished are much easier to clean than decorative ogee or deep bevels.

Conclusion

The edge type you choose has a significant impact on safety, appearance, and usability. Whether you prefer the sleek minimalism of a flat polished edge, the elegance of a bevel, or the safety of a pencil polish, selecting the right edge enhances your table’s durability and overall design. For homeowners looking for bespoke solutions, custom glass table tops offer the flexibility to choose the ideal edge profile for any interior.

FAQs

What is the safest edge type for a glass table top?

Pencil polished edges are generally the safest because they offer a rounded surface with no sharp corners.

Is a bevelled edge suitable for dining tables?

Yes, but bevels can be more delicate along the angled portion. For heavy daily use, a flat polished edge may be more durable.

Do all glass table tops need to be toughened?

In most cases, yes. Safety standards recommend toughened or laminated glass for exposed furniture surfaces.

Which edge type looks the most modern?

A flat polished edge provides a clean, contemporary look suitable for most modern interiors.