Material Guide • ATOLL Collection
Fiber cement, microcement, or aluminum: how do you choose your outdoor table?
A large table can transform a patio into a true open-air dining room. But beneath two finishes that evoke stone or concrete, very different constructions may sometimes be found. And aluminum, more understated, meets other needs.
At Piscine Hippocampe, we chose sculptural tables with varied materials and distinctive finishes for our ATOLL collection. Here is how to understand their differences and choose furniture you will enjoy using, not just looking at.
The answer in a few seconds
Three materials, three intentions
Fiber cement: for a mineral and sculptural presence. Microcement: for a matte, contemporary finish, whose properties also depend on the substrate and sealer. Aluminum: for relative lightness, easy maintenance, and flexibility in arranging spaces. None is automatically “better” in every situation.
1. Fiber cement: the look of concrete, with reinforced construction
Fiber cement is a cement-based material reinforced with fibers. Its composition and manufacturing processes may vary. Depending on the model, it can have a solid form, a subtle mineral texture, or a contemporary finish with more pronounced nuances.
Fiber cement tables are particularly appealing when you are looking for a statement piece: a large tabletop, rounded shapes, a sculptural central leg, or a base with generous proportions. Several models also stand out for their stability.
The advantages
- A mineral look reminiscent of concrete or stone.
- Imposing silhouettes that can sometimes be difficult to achieve with a simple metal structure.
- Contemporary shades such as Light Sand and Charcoal.
- A wide range of aesthetic possibilities: cylindrical legs, central bases, ovalized tabletops.
Points to consider
Fiber cement is not indestructible. It can be sensitive to impacts and unsuitable products; a sealed finish may require specific precautions. Weight and dimensions vary by table. Also check whether the model is suitable for a fully exposed patio or rather a covered outdoor area.
At ATOLL: the Horizon has a fiber cement tabletop and pedestal, while the Java Light and Java Dark feature two large cylindrical legs.
2. Microcement: a mineral finish, not necessarily a solid material
Microcement generally refers to a thin decorative coating made from cement and binders, applied to a substrate. This is an essential distinction: unlike a table described as being made of fiber cement, a table with a “microcement finish” is not necessarily made of microcement throughout its entire thickness.
Its main appeal is its visual effect: a surface that is often smooth, matte, understated, and almost architectural, pairing well with wood, rope, and fabrics.
Why you’ll love it
- A contemporary, clean-lined, timeless look.
- A beautiful contrast with a natural wood structure.
- A surface that draws the eye without adding decorative details.
What to check: the substrate material, protective finish, recommended indoor/outdoor use, and permitted maintenance products. Two tables described as having a “microcement finish” may have very different characteristics.
ATOLL example: the Nova 110 in. table combines a microcement-finish tabletop with a V-shaped base made of Indonesian teak. It is an excellent example of the effect created by mixing a mineral surface with wood.
3. Aluminum: a versatile, practical, and contemporary choice
Aluminum is a common structural material in outdoor furniture. It does not rust like carbon steel and makes it possible to create furniture that is easier to move, depending on its construction. A thermally cured finish (Powder Coat) provides a uniform color and helps protect the surface.
Its style can be very clean-lined: slender lines, simple legs, uniform surfaces, and compact shapes. It is particularly interesting for coffee tables, occasional tables, and certain dining table bases.
Its everyday advantages
- Generally easy to maintain with a soft cloth and suitable soap.
- Often easier to handle than large mineral tables, with comparable construction.
- Contemporary look that pairs easily with rope or teak seating.
The finish must nevertheless be protected from scratches and impacts. Aluminum can also heat up in the sun; its behavior depends in particular on the color and exposure.
ATOLL example: the Charcoal aluminum coffee table clearly illustrates this approach. For a dining area, the Marea table adds a treated teak top to an aluminum base.
4. Fiber cement vs. microcement vs. aluminum: comparison table
The table below helps compare the general characteristics. For a specific table, the construction, finish, and manufacturer’s instructions remain decisive.
| Criterion | Fiber cement | Microcement finish | Aluminum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nature | Reinforced cement composite | Decorative coating on a support | Metal used as a structure or surface |
| Style | Sculptural, mineral, stone effect | Clean-lined, matte, architectural | Visually lightweight, modern |
| Weight | Often important for large tables | Depends mainly on the support | Often lighter, depending on the model |
| Maintenance | Gentle care, respect the sealant and surface | Take care of the protective coating | Easy cleaning, beware of scratches |
| Things to check | Exposure, weight, and delivery | Support, sealant, and outdoor compatibility | Coating quality and stability |
| ATOLL examples | Horizon · Java | Nova | Charcoal coffee table |
Key point: fiber cement and microcement are not interchangeable terms. A fiber cement table can have a particular finish; a table with a microcement finish can rest on several types of supports.
Compare the models in images
5. Our ATOLL dining tables: photos, dimensions, and prices
Here are six models illustrating the differences in materials and design. Each photo and button is clickable to view the product page, other views, and specifications. Prices in Canadian dollars recorded in our store at the time of writing; the product page displays the current price.
The mineral centerpiece
Horizon Light Sand – 94 × 43 in
2 899 $
Tabletop and central pedestal in sealed fiber cement, in a light sand shade with rounded ends. A particularly striking silhouette for a large patio.
View photos and details
The light sculptural table
Java Light – 95 × 40 in
2 499,99 $
Large light fiber cement tabletop and two cylindrical legs. A spectacular choice for the dining room or a covered outdoor space.
View photos and details
The Charcoal contrast
Java Dark – 95 × 40 in
2 499,99 $
The silhouette of the Java in Charcoal, charcoal gray. For a more distinctive, modern, or architectural setting.
View photos and details
The mineral-and-wood blend
Nova – 110 × 43 in
2 299 $
Very large tabletop with a matte microcement finish, supported by V-shaped legs in Indonesian teak. A contemporary look warmed by natural wood.
View photos and details
The softness of the lines
Havana – 95 × 40 in
2 499 $
Sand fiber cement tabletop and two wide round legs in Indonesian teak. Worth considering for the dining room or a suitable patio.
View photos and details
The warm alternative
Marea – 48 in round
1 499 $
Treated teak round tabletop and Charcoal aluminum conical base. Ideal when you prefer the warmth of wood and a more convivial table size.
View photos and detailsLike Horizon, but prefer Charcoal?
The Horizon 94 × 43 in Charcoal offers the same central pedestal style in an anthracite gray shade; current price: $2,899. The Horizon Light Sand 86 × 43 in also offers a shorter option at $2,745.
Click the image to see the Charcoal version.
6. ATOLL table comparison: choose according to format and style
This comparison brings together tables in different dimensions. It is intended to help choose a style and format, not to claim that one material is better than another.
| Clickable model | Materials | Dimensions | Look | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Java Light | Light fiber cement | 95 × 40 po | Sculptural, luminous | 2 499,99 $ |
| Java Dark | Charcoal fiber cement | 95 × 40 po | Contemporary contrast | 2 499,99 $ |
| Horizon Light Sand | Sealed fiber cement | 94 × 43 po | Mineral, central base | 2 899 $ |
| Horizon Charcoal | Sealed fiber cement | 94 × 43 po | Architectural, anthracite | 2 899 $ |
| Nova | Microcement + teak finish | 110 × 43 po | Large format, wood + mineral | 2 299 $ |
| Havana | Fiber cement + teak | 95 × 40 po | Organic chic, rounded lines | 2 499 $ |
| Marea | Treated teak + aluminum | 48 in round | Warm, inviting | 1 499 $ |
For the 87 in tables, you can also consider the Java Light 87 × 40 in at $2,459.99 and the Nova 87 × 43 in at $2,199. The choice of length often has more impact on circulation and sociability than the material alone.
7. For your outdoor living room: small aluminum table or fiber cement coffee table?
A dining table does not meet the same needs as a living room coffee table. Here are two interesting ATOLL approaches, keeping in mind that the dimensions and uses are different.
Practical compact size
Charcoal aluminum side table – 17.5 in
199,99 $
A piece made entirely of aluminum, with a small footprint, for placing a drink or book beside an armchair.
View photos and details
Large sculptural coffee table
Azura Light Sand coffee table – 55 in
749 $
A true 55 × 29.5 × 16 in living room centerpiece, with rounded shapes and a light mineral finish.
View photos and detailsFor a darker option, discover the Azura Charcoal coffee table at the current price of $749.
8. Before buying: six checks that make all the difference
- Measure the actual area. Do not measure only the table's footprint: account for the chairs when pulled back and the passageways around it.
- Choose the length according to your needs. Models from 86 to 95 in. suit many dining areas; a 110 in. model naturally requires more space.
- Check the leg clearance. Two cylindrical legs, V-shaped legs, and a central pedestal do not offer the same leg and chair placement.
- Consider the weight and handling. Many large mineral tables are heavy. Check the stairs, passageways, door widths, and delivery conditions before ordering.
- Ask whether the furniture can be exposed. A table intended for a covered terrace does not necessarily have the same recommendations as a table intended for an open outdoor space.
- Plan for the chairs and parasol. The dimensions of armchairs, armrests, and clearances can change the space available for guests.
A well-planned layout can leave approximately 90 cm of clearance around a table when space permits, but this is only a layout guideline: adapt it to your chairs and your actual traffic flow.
9. Maintenance and Quebec winters: preserving finishes
Fiber cement tables
Remove stains and residue promptly, especially staining foods, beverages, and acidic products. Use a soft cloth or sponge and a cleaner recommended for the finish. A sealed tabletop must be maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions; avoid treating it like a raw concrete slab.
Tables with a microcement finish
Resistance to stains and moisture depends in part on the protective coating. Avoid abrasives and do not assume that an acid-based cleaner is compatible. Check the instructions specific to the model's finish and substrate.
Aluminum tables
Clean with a soft cloth and suitable products. Powder Coat finishes can be damaged by aggressive rubbing, impacts, and abrasive objects; aluminum does not require rustproofing treatment like ordinary steel, but it still requires maintenance.
What about during the winter?
In Quebec, freeze/thaw cycles, moisture trapped under a cover, and the weight of snow require special attention. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for each model. When possible, plan for dry storage or suitable, well-ventilated protection. Never use an aggressive cleaning method to remove ice.
Important: Java tables are presented in our catalog as being suitable, among other things, for indoor use and covered outdoor spaces. Do not assume that all fiber cement tables are identical when it comes to exposure.
10. How can you create an elegant outdoor dining area?
A table becomes even more appealing when it is surrounded by the right elements. A Light Sand table naturally pairs with cream cushions, teak wood, and textured fabrics. A Charcoal finish creates a striking contrast with light-colored seating or beige rope.
For chairs, explore the ATOLL Galion chair, which combines aluminum, rope, and teak accents, or the other models in the ATOLL collection.
The finishing touch? Artificial plants. Hippocampe Pool offers a wide selection of artificial plants directly at its Delson location, on Montreal's South Shore. They can frame a table, create some privacy, and add height to a minimalist setting.
To continue your project, discover our complete guide to high-end outdoor furniture and our article on Indonesian teak and its care.
ATOLL • Hippocampe Pool
A beautiful table is the beginning of your outdoor living space
Compare our mineral finishes, teak tables, and small aluminum tables, then make the right choice for your terrace. Discover the collection online or come meet us in Delson.
Discover the ATOLL collectionComplete your project with a pergola or pavilion
To see what a large table can look like under an outdoor structure, discover our Monaco pergola and ATOLL Horizon table example, with a selection of chairs and the indicative total budget.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about outdoor tables
What is the difference between fiber cement and microcement?
Fiber cement is a cement-based composite reinforced with fibers; microcement is generally a thin decorative finish applied to a substrate. Therefore, the two do not necessarily describe the same part of a table.
Is a fiber cement table made of solid concrete?
Not necessarily. Fiber cement is a composite material. Its construction, density, shape, and weight vary according to the furniture's design.
Which table should I choose for a modern patio?
The Horizon and Java models offer a sculptural mineral look. The Nova adds the warmth of teak to a microcement finish. The choice also depends on the dimensions and color you are looking for.
Can fiber cement stain?
Like other mineral surfaces, it can be marked by certain liquids or cleaners, depending on its finish. Clean up spills promptly and follow your model's care recommendations.
Does aluminum rust?
Aluminum does not rust like iron. However, it can oxidize, and its finish can be scratched or deteriorate; regular maintenance remains important.
Is a microcement table suitable for outdoor use?
It depends on the support, protective finish, assembly, and the manufacturer's instructions. The Nova is presented in our catalog for indoor or outdoor use, but you must still follow the model's protection instructions.
What size outdoor table should I choose for entertaining?
Start by considering the number of guests, the width of the chairs, and the available clearance. The 86- to 95-inch ATOLL tables offer ample space; the 110-inch Nova requires more room. Actual capacity depends on your chairs.
Where can I see ATOLL tables on Montreal's South Shore?
Explore the models and their photos in the ATOLL collection online, then contact or visit Piscine Hippocampe in Delson to find out which models are displayed in the showroom.