Restaurant table bases are not exactly a hot topic when it comes to everyday conversation, even in the restaurant and hospitality industries. Since the table base itself isn't frequently discussed, there are some things that many aren't familiar with. Before any of these problem areas arise, it is important that designers consider what types of table bases are generally used.
JI Bases offers three sizes of cast iron top plates: 13", 17" and 24". These sizes allows for "customization" on heavier or larger tops that would otherwise make the stamped steel spiders "bend or flex" under the weight. Many other manufacturers only supply a 12" stamped steel plate that just can't take the beating day-after-day. The top plate plays an integral part on providing the
The second component of a table base is the column. Many manufacturers opt to use an 18-gauge cold rolled steel column. Over the years of perfecting the process to make table bases, JI Bases has only used 16-gauge cold rolled steel. It's thicker and therefore sturdier. The JI Columns are also cut square and inspected to make sure that those cuts are consistent.
The bottom of the table base is the part that is placed directly on the floor. In over 85% of the world's restaurants, the 4-pronged (cross or "X" base) is the base plate of choice. Frank Jacobs designed this style back in 1958 before there wasn't a restaurant on every street corner. But, it has stood the test of time. It is a common, no-nonsense style that is easy to clean, easy to assemble, and easy to work into any decor.
It definitely can matter. Some are heavier than others (round vs. 4-prong for example). Simply put, the proper base
A 4-pronged (cross or "X") base gives the customer the most available "foot" room. Since the customer can straddle the base plate, they have full use of the table. Then, there's the plus that the chairs can push in to allow more aisle-space when not in use. Four easy-to-adjust glides help your staff to move the tables into place and to keep them at the same level, again keeping the customer's experience a delight.
One of the most important aspects of table bases is that they are made with high-quality materials and parts. When there is no standard for quality, the customer experience will likely suffer. So many of the table base suppliers out there buy in bulk along with all the other furnishings that they're going to use in your facility. They may or may not know exactly what's going into their table bases. At JI, we've been doing this a long time and have very specific quality control policies in place in our facilities. We know what goes into providing you with the proper product.
With the right knowledge and the right assistance, the right table bases can be chosen for any restaurant design or layout. We understand that every project can bring a variety of frustrations and complications, but JI Bases can help you choose the best restaurant table bases that will serve you well for many years to come.