What is a Dining Table Extension Leaf?

A dining table extension leaf/leaves extends the length of a table in order to accommodate additional family, friends and guests. The majority of leaves are crafted from solid wood or solid wood and a veneer top. An extension also provides additional surface top space for extra food trays and drinks which is great for formal dinner parties, holidays and family occasions.

Advantages of an expandable table are many. A round table with drop leaves is ideal for small dining or kitchen areas. Kitchen counter height tables enable a room to look bigger and can be extended from 15” to 18”. A square table can be utilized as an everyday table and transformed into a rectangular shape for special occasions. If room allows it, the table can be paired with a dining server or buffet/ hutch.

Butterfly leaf – this is the most space-efficient extension that folds and self-stores under the table.

Drop leaf - Commonly associated with smaller round tables where both ends of the table drop down. This type of extension has hinges on both ends to extend the top or to drop and tuck away. Some tables might feature 4 extension leaves and would transform a round top to a rectangular table top

Removable leaves - Associated with larger tables that require storing the extension away from the table. These are larger extensions that easily drop into the table and can easily be removed and stored away.

The following are a few furniture store table lengths with extensions that are available at OC Furniture:

• Total Length: 112” includes (2) x 18” leaves (Without leaves in use it is 76” long
• Total Length: 108” includes (2) x 18” leaves (Without leaves in use it is 72” long
• Total Length: 60” includes (1) x 18” leaves (Without leaf in use it is 42” long

Dining table top extensions can have a few effects on the shape of a table top. The following are the most common shapes once a leaf is put in place:

Rectangle to rectangle – A rectangular table will maintain its elongated shape once the leaf or leaves are put into place. This table shape can comfortably seat 6 to 12 people.

Square to rectangular – A square dining table will change into a rectangular bed once a 12”, 16” or 20” leaf is installed. This shape can sit between 6 to 10 people effortlessly.

Round to oval – Expand a round table by inserting its leaf which will usually range between 6” to 12”. This changes the table into an oval shape which is ideal for holidays or dining parties.