The 4 X 4 round glass top broke on our patio table, and instead of buying a whole new table I'm thinking of using the leftover tiles from previous projects to create a new top. I know that since we occasionally get below freezing, I should use durock for a backer, but I'm concerned that the weight in combination with the tile, mortar, and grout would be to much for the aluminum legs which are mounted in the center of the table, not at the edges.

Can anyone suggest an alternative for a lighter backing (like maybe an exterior grad plywood), or should I just breakdown and buy a new table?

 

two layers of 3/4" CDX glued and screwed together will work, it is just a table and not suceptable to foot traffic. use small tiles like 1 1/2 " so you can use the same tile around the sides of the table. If it is for oetdoor use , use a poly modified thinset, not adhesive or premixed thinset, to adhere the tile. Also use an epoxy grout, seal the grout about a week after grouting.

 

I would also mop the plywood with a waterproof / antifracture membrane. (Custom's Red Coat)

If this is a patio table, is it going to see it's share of rain?

 

Thanks for the replies!

I was figured (hoped) there would be an alternative to buying a whole new table. My better half will also be glad to see me at least reduce the size of the box of tiles that I've been hording.

I'm heading to the Home D later this week, and hopefully start this project this weekend.