Convert Iron Bin to Coffee Table?

by Heidi

I have a rectangular industrial cast iron bin that I'd like to convert to coffee table. Its size is 20.5"w x 33"l x 22"h. This includes a .75" rim/rolled edge around the top.
 
My question: What size top would work with this?
 
Should it be glass and, if so, what size and what thickness?
 
Does it need to be tempered?
 
If not, what other materials might work well?
 
Also: I've thought about just putting a glass top on to fit the exact dimensions of the bin.
 
If I did this, would the rim be enough to hold it it place or what might I add to secure it?
 
I'd like the final look to be strong and urban. Thanks!

Giorgina's Answer: How exciting that you want to convert your existing cast iron bin into a coffee table. That’s very creative and gives you a chance to put your own finishing touches on what will be a dramatic piece in your home.
Glass or granite will work beautifully with your soon to be coffee table. It’s difficult to tell you exactly what dimensions of glass or granite you will need since one side of your cast iron bin may be a bit wider or longer than the other.  

If you go with glass or granite, it seems that you would need at least 5/8” in thickness. The glass should be tempered and I would suggest a polished rim around the edges to enable you to lift it out with ease when cleaning in order to avoid cutting yourself.

Tempered glass is glass that has been treated to increase its strength. And if heaven forbid, should the tempered glass shatter, it will shatter into fragments instead of sharp shards like normal glass. For safety reasons, tempered glass is an excellent choice. As far as how to secure the glass, you may want to consider rubber picture frame bumpers to keep it in place and prevent it from sliding around.

Also, based on your description, I believe your bin will support a glass top or granite insert and either one will complete the unique look of your coffee table.

Granite is a beautiful stone that is unbelievably tough because it consists of quartz, orthoclase or microcline, and mica. These elements are used in monuments and for construction. You can find granite in many fabulous colors and finishing styles, from polished to matte and textured.

Another great thing about granite is that it is heat, water, and chemical resistant, and does not attract dirt. Furthermore, it does not stain or scratch, which makes it ideal as a top for a coffee table. To protect the granite, I recommend sealing it once a year with an impregnating sealer. It’s a solution that you wipe over the stone and it’s recommended that you apply two coats of sealer. You can find sealant at your local home improvement store.

Lastly, if you opt for a glass top, I highly recommend that you visit a custom glass shop to get the exact thickness and correct dimensions on the glass. Since this will be a custom piece, a glass shop would be more than happy to assist you with that.

Best of luck to you with this project! I’d love to for you to share pictures of your new coffee table. I have no doubt that you will achieve that strong urban feel that you’re after.