Having a tiny balcony or patio doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. With the right gear, you can transform even the smallest outdoor space into a relaxing oasis. One ingenious solution is a mountable folding table designed to hang off a railing. These compact tables maximize every inch of your limited square footage so you can get outdoors more. Read on to discover why a folding balcony table is ideal for petite patios and postage-stamp balconies.
A mountable folding table provides a flat surface that hangs over your balcony railing. Sturdy brackets grip the railing while providing a ledge to set drinks, meals, decor items or anything you need handy access to outside. When not in use, the table conveniently folds up vertically to save space. Made of durable, weather-resistant materials like powder-coated aluminum or teak wood, these mounts blend form and function.
Benefits of Mountable Folding Balcony Tables
Maximize Limited Space
For city dwellers and apartment renters with no backyards, a small balcony may be your only outdoor refuge. Mounting a folding table over your railing is genius way to utilize air space and avoid taking up existing floor space. The tables hang in the empty void, leaving your balcony clear for seating below.
When collapsed, the slim profile tucks tightly against the railing. This compact storage mode gives you back your square footage during the times you aren’t using the table. Made of lightweight metals, woods or plastic, the construction keeps pounds to a minimum.
Enjoy the Outdoors
Life in the concrete jungle can feel confining. A folding balcony table lets you enjoy fresh air and sunshine right outside your door. Set up an outdoor bistro and share a morning espresso with your special someone. Make the most of sunset and unwind outdoors with a glass of wine after work. Or pass a lazy weekend afternoon with a good book al fresco on your patio.
These tables allow urban dwellers, apartment renters and homeowners with petite patios to get outside more. You can dine, relax or entertain despite limited square footage thanks to smart, space-saving furniture solutions.
Add Versatile Storage
A folding balcony or patio table adds a flat surface for items you want to keep outdoors. Use it to display potted plants that soak up the sunshine. Keep decor items, cushions or spare towels readily accessible. The table also comes in handy for hobbies like painting outside or gardening in container plants.
For a smart storage hack, attach small metal hooks underneath to hang baskets or bins for organizing odds and ends. You can quickly clear or access items without cluttering up your indoor rooms. This versatile furniture multitasks as decor and functional storage.
What to Look For in a Folding Balcony Table
The Right Size
Pay close attention to product dimensions when shopping for a folding balcony table. You’ll want to measure the depth and width of your railing to ensure the table brackets properly fit over the sides with a little room to spare.
Also consider the overall size of your balcony or patio when choosing a size. Opt for more compact tables around 2 feet wide if you have a tiny space. Larger 4 foot tables can work well for slightly bigger areas that need ample surface space.
Sturdy and Durable Materials
Quality balcony-mounted tables are constructed from sturdy, weather-resistant materials built to handle the elements. Powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel prevents rusting and withstands rain and sun exposure. These strong metals support the weight of items placed on the tabletop.
Tables made of teak and other dense woods also make smart outdoor furniture picks. The natural oils help woods like teak resist water damage, warping and decay.
Secure Mounting Bracket
For safety, ensure your folding table comes with a reliable bracket system to keep it fixed securely to the railing. Look for thick, steel mounting brackets that won’t bend or flex under weight. Quality tables often allow you to adjust the angle and height for a custom fit.
Padding on the bracket provides a snug grip and prevents scratches or damage to your railing. Anti-slip protection on the bottom surface also prevents sliding and shaking that could dislodge the table.
Sufficient Weight Capacity
Check weight limits before purchasing a folding balcony table. You’ll want something sturdy enough to hold everyday items without strain or safety issues. Many quality models support 50-100 pounds–enough for dishes, drink ware and cooked foods.
If you’ll use yours for larger pots of plants, decorative rocks or heavier loads, look for a higher weight capacity around 150 pounds or more.
Easy To Install
Look for folding balcony tables designed for quick, simple DIY assembly. Most attach via two main pieces–the tabletop and the railing bracket. You shouldn’t need fancy tools–just wrenches or Allen keys that come included.
The hardware connects through pre-drilled holes for straightforward set-up. Adjustable tabs let you tweak the angle and height as needed. For added convenience, look for tables requiring no screws into your balcony railing.
Style and Design Options
Just because it’s functional does not mean a folding balcony table has to look boring. Today’s models come in a range of styles to complement your outdoor space. Choose from modern polished metal and faux wood or more ornate decorative metalwork.
Coordinate your mountable table with existing patio furniture for a cohesive set-up. Match your finishes and color palette so it blends with the overall decor of your outdoor living area.
If you entertain frequently, look for a table with an umbrella hole to shield guests from sun and provide shade. Some even come with weather-resistant fabric covers to protect the surface when not in use.
Brands to Consider
Quality manufacturers like Best Choice Products, Tangkula and Songmics make top-rated folding balcony tables to suit any aesthetic and budget. Comparison shop to get the right mix of features, materials and price point for your needs.
Scope out consumer reviews before you buy. Look for durable models that live up to their weight capacities and resist wobbling. We’ll save you research time by rounding up the best-rated options under $100 to over $200.
Before you shop, measure your balcony or patio railing to ensure you get a properly sized folding table. Take into account your planned uses and look for a sufficient weight capacity.
Assembly is generally fast and tool-free with pre-drilled hardware. But for added security, consider requesting help from a friend or family member when installing over a railing.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to safely and successfully mount your new table. Then get ready to maximize every square inch and enjoy your petite outdoor oasis to the fullest!
