Custom glass countertops and custom glass for table tops are durable, non-porous, and highly aesthetic surfaces made from tempered or kiln-formed glass. They provide a modern alternative to granite or quartz, offering heat resistance, easy maintenance, and unique LED lighting capabilities. Ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces, glass countertops combine luxury with long-lasting functionality.
When it comes to high-end interior design, few materials offer the versatility and “wow factor” of glass. Whether you are looking for custom glass countertops for a sleek kitchen island or seeking custom glass for table tops to protect an heirloom piece, homeowners and designers alike are turning to glass for its luminous beauty.
However, moving away from traditional stone sparks many questions regarding durability, cost, and maintenance. In this guide, we’ll answer the most pressing questions about glass surfaces, explore why they are becoming a staple in Utah’s modern homes, and provide the technical insights you need to make an informed decision for your next renovation.
Table of contents
What are custom glass countertops?
Step-by-step guide to choosing your glass surface
Benefits of custom glass countertops
Key glass design and durability stats
Recommended features and customizations
Bring your glass vision to life with New Concepts Glass Design
What are custom glass countertops?
Unlike the thin glass found in windows, custom glass countertops and custom glass table tops typically range in thickness from 0.75 inches to 1.5 inches. You can finish them with various textures (crushed, wavy, or smooth) and colors.
Many homeowners also utilize custom glass for table tops, which serves as a protective or decorative layer over wood, metal, or stone. Because glass is non-porous, it does not harbor bacteria or stains, making it one of the most hygienic surfaces available on the market today.
Step-by-step guide to choosing your glass surface
Before you commit to a custom glass surface, it’s worth taking a closer look at the design and installation choices that bring it all together.
From how the glass will function in your space to the finishing touches that give it personality, every detail plays a role in the style and performance of your finished piece.
Whether you’re envisioning a bold kitchen counter or a sleek tabletop, here’s a simple breakdown of what to consider as you plan your custom glass design — so it looks incredible and works beautifully, too.
- Determine your application: Decide whether you need a complete structural glass countertop or a thinner, custom glass for tabletops to protect existing furniture.
- Select your glass type: Choose between clear glass, low-iron glass (which removes the green tint), or kiln-formed “slumped” glass for a textured look.
- Choose thickness and edge work: Standard countertops are usually one inch thick. Choose from polished, frosted, or “chiseled” edges for a more organic feel.
- Incorporate color and lighting: Decide if you want back-painting (to match a specific room color) or integrated LED lighting to make the edges glow.
- Professional measurement: Unlike DIY wood projects, you cannot cut glass on-site. Professional laser measurements are required to ensure a perfect fit for sinks and cooktops.
- Installation: Our team secures the glass using specialized adhesives and supports to ensure safety and stability.
Benefits of custom glass countertops
- Unmatched hygiene: Non-porous surface that resists mold, mildew, and bacteria.
- Heat resistance: Glass can withstand high temperatures without cracking or scorching.
- Eco-friendly: Glass is a 100% recyclable material and often uses recycled content.
- Visual space: Transparent glass surfaces make small rooms feel larger and brighter.
- Stain-proof: Wine, lemon juice, and oils that ruin marble can be wiped right off glass.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using abrasive cleaners, such as steel wool or gritty cleansers, causes micro-scratches on the surface over time, potentially damaging it.
- Choosing low-quality glass: Ensure your glass is properly tempered for safety.
- Incorrect support: Glass is heavy; failing to ensure your cabinetry supports the weight of a one-inch-thick slab is a common oversight.
Key glass design and durability stats
| Tempered glass is four to five times stronger than standard glass. | Tempered glass can withstand temperatures up to approximately 400°F | A glass surface can last over 50 years with basic care | Custom glass features increase home appraisal value |
Recommended features and customizations
- LED backlighting: Programmable RGB lights to change the mood of your kitchen.
- Sub-surface textures: “Rain” or “Crushed Ice” textures that hide fingerprints and water spots.
- Back-painting: You can apply any Pantone color to the underside of the glass.
- Integrated sinks: Seamlessly fused glass sinks for a high-end, monolithic look.
FAQs
Q: Are custom glass countertops easy to scratch?
While glass is a strong and durable surface, like any material, it’s not completely scratch-proof. We typically use tempered glass for custom glass countertops, as it is resistant to everyday wear and tear. However, extremely hard materials — such as diamonds or hardened steel — scratch the surface if applied with force.
That said, most homeowners won’t encounter this issue in everyday use. Textured glass finishes excel at concealing minor surface wear, making them an ideal option for busy kitchens or high-traffic prep areas. With proper care and mindful use of cutting boards, your glass countertop will retain its sleek appearance for years.
Q: Can I use custom glass for table tops over wood?
Yes — custom glass table tops are one of the best ways to protect wood furniture. Whether you’re covering a dining table, sideboard, or coffee table, a layer of custom-cut glass helps prevent damage from spills, heat, scratches, and even UV exposure that causes fading over time.
Glass protects the surface while preserving the beauty of the wood underneath. It’s ideal for heirloom furniture, modern pieces, or anything you want to shield without hiding. Additionally, you can have custom glass cut to fit curves, feature beveled edges, or incorporate decorative inlays to perfectly match your furniture’s unique shape.
Q: How do I clean my glass countertops?
Cleaning glass countertops is refreshingly simple. For everyday maintenance, all you need is a standard glass cleaner or a homemade solution of vinegar and water. Wipe the surface with a microfiber cloth to remove smudges, fingerprints, and spills without leaving streaks.
To keep your glass looking its best, avoid using abrasive sponges or scouring pads. While they may not cause immediate damage, over time, they may dull the finish or create fine scratches. With gentle, routine care, your glass countertop will maintain its glossy, flawless appearance for years to come.
Q: Is glass more expensive than granite?
In many cases, yes. Custom glass countertops are a premium surface material, typically priced in a range similar to high-end granite, exotic stones, or custom concrete. Costs vary depending on glass thickness, surface texture (clear, frosted, textured), edge finishes, and any required shaping or cutouts.
However, the investment reflects more than material cost. Glass offers a distinctive, contemporary aesthetic that few materials match. It’s a modern, light-enhancing, and highly customizable option that brings functionality and artistic edge to kitchens, bathrooms, and furniture.
Bring your glass vision to life with New Concepts Glass Design
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen, protect a cherished piece of furniture, or make a bold design statement, custom glass countertops and custom glass table tops offer a sleek, versatile solution that blends beauty with function. At New Concepts Glass Design, we specialize in crafting high-quality glass surfaces tailored to your space, style, and needs.
From ultra-clear glass for a crisp, modern finish to textured or tinted options that add depth and character, our design experts help you choose the perfect combination of thickness, edge detail, and finish. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all — and your home shouldn’t either. We thoughtfully design and craft every piece we fabricate to reflect your vision.
Do you need a glass table top to protect your wooden furniture? Thinking about a standout counter for a kitchen island or bar? Our team will guide you through every step — from concept and customization to installation and care.
Ready to discover how custom glass enhances your space? Contact New Concepts Glass Design today, and let’s start creating something beautiful, functional, and uniquely yours.