Picnic table frames are easy to use and cheaper than buying a whole picnic table. Buying the planks and frames for picnic tables separately will give one different options as well as reduce the cost. All one need to do to make a picnic table is get suitable frames and planks. Most frames are easy enough to use. The planks can be just screwed on to the top as well as to the seats. One could get frames of many different sizes, but typically 5 feet to 12 feet.

Considering that picnic tables are used outdoors, there are some specific attributes that a picnic table frame would need. It would need to be weather resistant, that is resistant to sun and moisture. It would need to be resistant to pests and termites. It is also better if it is chemical resistant so that one can use the table by the sea side. It should not get warped due to variations in temperature. It should be resistant to corrosion and rust.

Other than these, the frame would also need to be sturdy and strong. It should be able to bear heavy weight, of food items, picnic baskets, and folks sitting or jumping on it. It should be stable. That is it should not trip or tilt. One could get many different types of frames for picnic tables. These could be made for standard, square, or specialty tables. ADA compliant picnic table frames which would seat one or two wheelchair using persons are also available.

The frames could be either heavy duty or standard. The heavy duty ones would be able to bear more weight and force than the standard ones. The standard ones usually cost less, though the material is also a factor. Picnic table frames are usually made of either galvanized steel or aluminum. Both are weather resistant and corrosion resistant, though to different degrees.

In the case of galvanized steel the steel is hot dipped galvanized. The steel is coated with molten zinc to provide it protection from corrosion and rust. This is an advantage in outdoor conditions. The material is sturdy and strong and can bear heavy weight. Aluminum is more resistant to corrosion than steel. But, the trouble is that it is also light weight and less sturdy. This means it is less likely to bear heavy weight and more likely to collapse under heavy and inconsiderate use.

The price of galvanized steel and aluminum are similar. Heavy duty galvanized steel though, will cost a lot more. Keeping them well painted with weather resistant paints would extend their life. The frames could be either made of pipes or not. Most frames are usually pipes. Whether the pipes are less strong or more would depend on the material used (galvanized steel or aluminum) as well as their weight. The tubing or pipes are less likely to hurt or scratch since they do not have corners. The type, style, material, and design of the picnic table frames would affect the table strength and life. Hence, take every factor into consideration while buying the frames for picnic tables.