A restaurant table is only as steady as its base. Pick a base that is too small for the top and the table tips when a guest leans on the edge; pick one too large and chair legs and feet run into it. This guide shows how to match base size to top size, when to use dining or bar height, and how long tops are supported. Every size in the table below comes from the size notes on our in-stock table bases.
How base sizes are described
Base size refers to the spread – the width of the footprint on the floor. Round bases are listed by diameter (for example 22″ round), cross or 4-prong bases by their width (for example 22″ x 22″), and 2-prong or “T” bases by the length of the foot. Each size on our product pages lists the largest tops it supports, such as “24″ (tops up to 30×48)”. Stay at or under that limit.
Top size to base spread
| Top size | Base spread (examples from product listings) |
|---|---|
| 24″ x 24″ or 24″ round | 17″ 3-prong (tops up to 24″ round); 18 x 18 or 20 x 20 cross (tops up to 24×24) |
| 30″ x 30″ or 30″ round | 15″ diameter (tops up to 30″ round); 17″ round (tops up to 30×30); 20″ (tops up to 30×30); 22″ x 22″ cross (tops up to 30×30) |
| 36″ x 36″ or 36″ round | 22″ (tops up to 36×36); 24″ x 24″ 4-prong (tops up to 36″ round); 30″ x 30″ cross (tops up to 36×36) |
| 42″ x 42″ | 22″ round (tops up to 42×42 or 30×48); 32 x 32 cross (tops up to 42×42) |
| 30″ x 48″ | 22″ round (tops up to 30×48); 24″ (tops up to 30×48); 22″ x 30″ (tops up to 30×48) |
| 36″ x 48″ | 24″ x 30″ or 22″ x 30″ (tops up to 36×48) |
| 48″–54″ round | 24″ diameter (tops up to 54″ round); 28″ round (tops up to 54″ round); 30″ (tops up to 54″ round) |
| 60″ round | 30″ (tops up to 60″ round); 40″ x 40″ (tops up to 60″ round) |
| 30″ x 60″ | 15″ x 31″ 2-column base (tops up to 30×60) |
| Up to 36″ x 96″ | Two 2-prong bases per top (for example 5″ x 22″ or 24″ 2-prong, tops up to 36×96) |
Limits vary by model, so always confirm on the specific base you choose.
Examples by base
- Anvil Cast Iron Table Base: 20″ (tops up to 30×30), 24″ (tops up to 30×48), 30″ (tops up to 54″ round); black powder coat or chrome.
- Bedrock Cast Iron Table Base: 17″ round (tops up to 30×30), 22″ round (tops up to 42×42 or 30×48), 28″ round (tops up to 54″ round).
- Axis Cast Iron Table Base: cross sizes from 22″ x 22″ (tops up to 30×30) to 40″ x 40″ (tops up to 60″ round), plus a 5″ x 22″ 2-prong (2 needed per top) for tops up to 36×96.
- Fulcrum Cast Iron Table Base: 15″ diameter (tops up to 30″ round) and 24″ diameter (tops up to 54″ round).
- Tower Steel Table Base (Indoor/Outdoor): 17″ x 17″ (tops up to 30×30), 22″ x 22″ (tops up to 36×36) and a 15″ x 31″ 2-column base (tops up to 30×60); treated for outdoor use.
- Trestle Stainless Steel Table Base: 18″ square (tops up to 30×30), 23″ square (tops up to 42″ x 42″ or 30×48) and an 18×30 2-column base (tops up to 36×54).
Dining height vs. bar height
Most of our bases are offered in two heights. Dining height is for standard tables used with dining chairs. Bar height is for high-tops used with bar stools, which pair with 40–42″ bar-height tables. Remember that finished table height includes the thickness of the top, which varies by product (for example 1.5″ or 2″ laminate, and stone tops with a 1-1/4″ edge).
Bar-height tables sit higher and put more leverage on the base, so when a top is near a base’s listed limit, consider the next size up for high-tops. Wider spreads also help on patios and in busy bars where guests lean on tables.
Long tops and two-base setups
Rectangular tops longer than a single column can support use either a 2-column base or a pair of 2-prong bases. Several products list this explicitly: the Pillar Cast Iron Table Base and Ironside Cast Iron Table Base each offer a 2-prong size noted as “2 needed per top” for tops up to 36×96, and the Apex Cast Iron Table Base lists a 2×36 2-prong 2-column option for tops up to 42×120. Place the bases toward each end of the top, keeping the prongs clear of seating positions. If your layout doesn’t match a listed option, contact us before ordering.
Outdoor bases
For patios, choose bases marked Indoor/Outdoor, which are specially treated for outdoor use. See outdoor table bases.
Assembly
Bases ship unassembled; the column, base and top plate bolt together, and hardware is included. Most models have adjustable glides for uneven floors. Tops are sold separately – browse table tops.
Frequently asked questions
What size base do I need for a 30″ x 30″ top?
A base listed for tops up to 30×30, such as a 17" round, 20" or 22" x 22" cross base, depending on the model.
What size base for a 30″ x 48″ top?
A base listed for tops up to 30×48, such as a 22" round, 24" or 22" x 30" base, depending on the model.
How do I support a long table top?
Use a 2-column base or a pair of 2-prong bases. Several bases list 2-prong sizes with "2 needed per top" for tops up to 36×96.
What is the difference between dining height and bar height bases?
Dining height bases are for standard tables with dining chairs. Bar height bases are for high-tops used with bar stools and 40–42" bar-height tables.
Do table bases come assembled?
No. Bases ship unassembled; the column, base and top plate bolt together, and hardware is included.
Shop table bases with the supported top size listed on every option, or contact us for a volume quote on 100+ bases, chairs or stools, or 50+ tops.