Types of sliding table mechanisms, their description and main selection criteria

The table is central to any kitchen. In the house of people who like to receive guests, this piece of furniture is also a must in the living room. But a bulky table is not suitable for any interior, and especially it will look inappropriate in a small apartment. The solution is to buy a sliding table that transforms from compact to large at the right time. The mechanisms of such furniture have their own characteristics, which are described below.

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What you need to know about sliding table mechanisms
- Device and principle of operation
- Advantages and disadvantages
Varieties of sliding mechanisms and their characteristics
How to choose the right table with a transformation mechanism
Rules for the operation of sliding tables
Video: types of mechanisms for sliding tables
50 design options for sliding tables in the interior

What you need to know about sliding table mechanisms

The sliding table mechanism makes it possible to turn a small dining table into a large piece of furniture for receiving guests. The service life of the table depends on the quality of the fittings and its operational capabilities. Mechanisms are of different types - tsargovy, bezargovy and others, but they have approximately the same function.

sliding table photo — In some cases it is a neat table with a vase, in others it is a place for a meeting of a large company.

The essence of the mechanism is to move the tabletop apart in order to insert an additional element into the resulting opening and thus increase the length of the table. Different people may find different mechanisms convenient, so it is advisable to familiarize yourself with all of them before buying.

sliding table ideas — In order to foresee possible life scenarios and be ready for any options, it makes sense to purchase a folding table.

Device and principle of operation

The design, which has a sliding table, consists of a table top, fasteners and legs. The table top has two parts, a third part can be inserted between them. With the help of additional elements, the parts are moved apart, another component is inserted, the two side ones are tightly pressed against it and a long table is obtained, at which guests can already be seated. The tabletop can move, or the collet can move - the supporting part of the table. It already depends on the type of mechanism.

sliding table ideas photo — The mechanism of such a table will allow you to turn a small table into a large one.

Before buying, you need to familiarize yourself with the details, materials that were used to make the mechanisms. In this case, you need to take into account the goals of purchase and use in everyday life.

Advantages and disadvantages

Sliding tables are very popular among city residents, because it is not always possible to place bulky furniture in an apartment. The benefits include:

Durability, reliability and stability of the structure.
Resistance to external factors.
The ability to withstand fairly heavy loads.
Large assortment of colors and materials for worktops.

sliding table photo ideas — When unfolding the tabletop many times, it is important to distribute the load symmetrically to all parts. This is the key to the long service life of the furniture.

There are also some disadvantages:

Tables can look massive due to their size, so they are not very suitable for a minimalist interior.
Some models are not very comfortable for people with large stature, because it is difficult to roll one leg over the other.
Due to the complexity of the design, the price can be high. But she meets the quality.

Dining room furniture must withstand heavy loads, because many plates of food, bottles and other utensils are stacked on it. That is why the fastening mechanisms must be as strong as possible.

sliding table design — The synchronous mechanism for sliding tables will allow you to balance the tension and avoid jamming and distortions in one operation.

Varieties of sliding mechanisms and their characteristics

Among the huge variety of mechanisms, there will be tables with a drawer side and a retractable middle, with a swiveling central part, with a double table top and movable legs, as well as a zargovy mechanism. All of them have their own advantages and disadvantages, and find application in a particular case.

sliding table design photo — An indispensable thing for such solutions has become a sliding transformer table, which will come in handy in any room and will make it easy to change the parameters of the table.

Side table with swivel center

The drawer is a frame on which the tabletop will stand. It must be strong and massive in order to withstand the large weight of the countertop itself with what lies on it. This design is similar to the one with a retractable middle, but slightly different in the way it transforms. The additional insert is divided into two parts here and is hidden at the bottom.

sliding table photo design — It will be possible to completely remove the table for the period when it is not needed, and free up space.

To expand the table, you need to pull the side components to the sides so that they move apart - this happens synchronously from both sides. Two inserts will be hidden under the tabletop, which are also interconnected. They are turned 180 degrees and laid out in the opening. Then the side parts are connected until they click. The system looks simple, but it requires knowledge from specialists in order for the furniture to be as reliable as possible.

sliding table design ideas — Such transformation systems and mechanisms for tables can be used for both cabinet furniture and built-in furniture.

Extendable table with drawer side and pull-out center

When the table is assembled, the seam of the joint is located in the center, and under the tabletop there is a compartment where the pull-out part is located. She is there until she is needed. To unfold the table, two halves of the table top move apart, the spare part is taken out and inserted into the resulting opening. The halves that were pushed back are pushed back until the person hears the table top click. This means that all three pieces of furniture are connected, and the table is assembled.

The advantages of such a model are its high indicators of durability, in both possible states the table can withstand any loads put on it. Of the minuses, you can only name a slightly rough appearance.

Double top

Looking at such a table from above, it is impossible to notice that it can be expanded. It does not contain any joints, it just has a double table top. When viewed from the side, it seems to be just thick. To increase the area of such a table, you need to do the following:

Remove the upper part of the double worktop and set it aside.
Under it, you will see the same, but divided into two parts by a butt seam.
They need to be pushed in opposite directions until the opening is large enough to install the top tabletop.
The deferred part is inserted into the opening and the side ones are shifted back.

table with marble top — The table transformation system is equipped with a special lightweight aluminum guide mechanism and in some cases, there are options for supporting the table top edge.

In this case, the table becomes twice as large.The small drawbacks of this table are that the sides are not sufficiently supported, so the design is a little unreliable. The top removable table top is heavy, so not everyone can cope with the decomposition of this table.

With movable legs

This is the most modern mechanism. In previous models, only the table top moved, here the table legs can also move. The mechanism is of two types:

Sliding. If guests come, you need to take the tsar with your hands and pull it towards you. When it drives off to the side, a spare tabletop will be located under it. It needs to be either simply pushed out, or lifted and deployed. The table becomes larger by as much as 50%.
Folding. Here you also need to grab the tsar and pull in your direction. When she drove off, the double table top needs to be opened, as if turning a page of a book. Then the table area doubles. The seam between the pieces will be exactly in the middle.

sliding table options — The maximum you can count on is 100 kg. In this case, it is necessary to choose a model with a support on the edge of the table for stability and weight support.

There are models that are equipped with additional lifting mechanisms to unfold the table without much effort. The disadvantage is that this type of mechanism is the least durable and the table itself does not look very aesthetically pleasing.

sliding table photo options — Such systems allow not only to increase the useful surface of the countertop, but also in some cases to increase the functionality.

Zargovy mechanism

This table does not have a supporting part - a drawer side, so it looks very elegant and attractive. The tabletop is often made of tempered glass, so this table has a very attractive appearance.

sliding table bezargovy — Convertible tables most often find their place in those rooms where you need to combine functionality and ease of use with space saving.

The mechanism for a folding home table in this case is represented by metal guides that are fixed under the table top. Due to the glass tabletop, the mechanism will be visible, but since the whole structure looks aesthetically pleasing, this will not spoil the appearance of such a table. The layout does not require much effort, the parts of the tabletop move apart very smoothly and synchronously - even a child can cope with this.

sliding table bezargovy photo — The high-quality mechanism of the dining table-transformer is made of steel or metal alloys that are resistant to temperature changes, damage, and heavy weight.

A small drawback is a high cost. Only high-quality materials are used for such furniture, so it is almost impossible to find a cheap table of this type.

How to choose the right table with a transformation mechanism

A table with a folding mechanism can differ in many parameters - the material of manufacture, the shape of the table top, style, model and features of the mechanism itself.

sliding table types — The reliable mechanism for the folding table is characterized by high performance of the guides.

According to the shape of the table top, the tables should be chosen as follows:

Square. Usually these tables are small and perfect for small spaces. On an unfolded tabletop, you can place 4 people, and on a doubled one, 6 or even 8. For a small family and people who do not like a feast more than enough.
Rectangular. It is logical that it is larger even when folded. Suitable for use in the kitchen, living room or dining room. Accommodates 6 to 12 people.
Round. It looks more original and aesthetically pleasing. It takes up little space, and the number of people that can sit at such a table can vary.
Oval. It resembles a rectangular one, because it is very roomy, but takes up a little less space.
Octagonal. This is a rather original and rare form.Despite the fact that the table has many corners, it is very comfortable and can accommodate 8 people when folded.

sliding table types of photos — When creating large massive dining options, you cannot do without a sliding table mechanism.

If we take into account the material of manufacture, then tables are:

From chipboard. The most common material due to its cost. It is not very durable, but with careful use it can last more than one year.
Made of MDF. This material is, of course, stronger, moisture resistant, and has an attractive appearance.
Made of plastic. Their ease of use makes them perfect for the kitchen. They have a lightweight design, but at the same time they are quite durable and shock-resistant.
Natural wood. Undoubtedly, this is the best option among all, because real wood is the strongest, most beautiful and durable. Natural beauty does not require any additional funds to tidy up the table.
From glass. Only the table top can be glass. It looks elegant, unusual, but the price is appropriate.

When choosing a table, it is also necessary to consult with a specialist in the matter of fittings. Because everyone can choose a color or material, relying on their tastes, but you need to understand the mechanisms. The durability of their use depends on the quality of the mechanism for sliding tables. It is definitely not worth saving on this element, because this is the basis of the table.

The material must be durable and of high quality. Before buying, you can try the mechanism in action - the table layout should not require much effort.

Rules for the operation of sliding tables

When buying a table, it is important to familiarize yourself with some of the features of caring for it, especially if it is not cheap. There are some general tips for using individual tables, based on the material of manufacture:

Wood tables should be cleaned with polish and a soft cloth. Hard sponges and various cleaning agents can damage the wood and spoil its graceful appearance.
Glass countertops should be treated with special glass products specified in the instructions.
Stone tables must be protected from mechanical stress so as not to break the coating. Wipe gently with a soft cloth.
Plastic tables must not be exposed to high temperatures.

sliding table photo types — Such furniture is popular not only at home, but in cafes and restaurants, especially during banquet service.

Sliding table mechanisms made of high quality materials should and can last a long time. Proper care and respect contribute to this. Experts will help you choose a mechanism for a specific situation, but everyone will find something for their home.