 Imagine a section of lawn brought indoors and placed on a large table. This is how the pool table got its start among French royalty in the 1400s. The pool table has now evolved into a finely crafted item and billiards has become one of America’s favorite pastimes. The evolution of the pool table has brought it into the home as a standard purchase for game rooms, basements and garages everywhere. Buying a pool table should be a decision based on quality, size, installation and style.
As with any major purchase, quality should be the first priority when considering a pool table. The quality of the craftsmanship and the materials used should guide you in your purchase. The major component of the pool table is the slate playing surface, or bed. The slate should be at least one inch thick and framed with hardwood. Hardwood will not succumb to moisture and warping under temperature variations as would particle board or softwoods. Hardwood frames also allow for more accurate leveling during installation, due to the give of the wood when screwed to the slate. The slate should come in three pieces, as this allows easier handling, less breakage and more accurate leveling.
The cloth you choose for your table has an impact on your pool game. Many tables come with a durable felt. This is not the highest quality for the pool table surface. Felt does not provide as smooth a playing surface as fine worsted wool. This will affect the speed of the balls during play. Wool is a better choice, known for its faster quality for ball movement. Ensure that the cloth is applied taught and smooth, without any wrinkles or other flaws that could interfere with ball movement.
Cloth surfacing comes in a variety of colors to fit your preference or room design. Consider how the color will affect your game. Some colors may detract from your playing and others will show wear and chalk marks more prominently. Sticking with a green or blue cloth may be the most advantageous.
The frame is what holds it all together, so the most important factor here is strength. Look for solid hardwood or medium density fiberboard construction. The slate can weigh over 500 pounds so you need a sturdy frame for support and stability. Hardwood also holds screws better, which will assist in holding up to weight stress. Check for cross beams that run the length of the table, in addition to a center beam. Like a fine piece of furniture, the frame should employ glue, screws and dovetailing in its construction for added stability and longevity. Ensure that the frame is pre-assembled, as this offers a high-performance platform.
The pool table rails should be solid wood and the cushions rubber. This combination offers fast rebound and allows a better level of play. Check to make sure the rails are anchored securely to the playing surface. The pockets come in a variety of material options, including leather, plastic or rubber. Although leather is more costly, it does add a rather nice touch to the table and holds up well.
The legs of the pool table should be solid wood. Consider the weight they are supporting. They should be sturdy. The choices of styles are numerous. There are highly decorative legs that are beautifully carved. Or for the modernist, there are solid straight-edge legs that fit in nicely with contemporary décor. The finish is where you can also match your style. A deep, rich mahogany or a light oak finish is always in style. Opt for distressed wood for a more rustic look.
Size and weight are very important details. Consider where you will be setting up the pool table. Most people buying a pool table for the home choose a seven or eight foot table. Make sure you have sufficient room for play. Generally, you will need at least six feet on all sides of the table to allow freedom of movement. If space allows, try for twice the length of a standard pool cue of 52”. Consider the length of the cues you will be using and the motion needed to execute your shot. Allow plenty of clearance to accommodate. Be sure your floor can handle the weight of the table. It can weight up to 1,000 pounds.
To get optimum play from a pool table, it is important that the table is leveled correctly. For this reason, you may want to employ a reputable installer. They have the experience and tools to make sure your table is level and many guarantee their work. Professional installers also offer periodic service to maintain the table’s level. Also keep in mind that once a table is in place and leveled properly, it will remain there for some time. Therefore, you will want to give serious thought to its placement in the designated room.
Style is important to the overall look of the table as it fits within your home. If you plan on purchasing a pool table for a game room, you want to consider the theme or style of the room and buy a table that fits within that scope. Is your room 50s retro or sophisticated traditional? Do you have a sports theme or perhaps a Western theme? There are styles of pool tables to match any décor. Dark and rich ornately carved pool tables blend well in the classic English pub style. Smooth, sleek designs fit well in the retro or modern themed room. Sports fan? Perhaps you’d like to have your favorite teams’ colors or logo inlayed on the rails? Whatever your style or your fancy, there is a pool table that will fit your request.
If space is limited and you want more than a pool table in your game room, versatility is a key feature of the modern pool table. There are ping-pong bases that can now be placed over the pool table to switch up the gaming. Need extra dining space for a big crowd? Choose the dining pool table. This smart design allows you to convert your pool surface into a dining table that easily fits six to eight guests. So whether you want to rack up a few games of pool or challenge your friends and family to a ping-pong championship, you can end the evening with a dinner to celebrate your sportsmanship in style.
So, with all of these factors in mind, buying a pool table should ultimately be a fun and worthwhile experience. A quality pool table can last generations and provide you, your family and friends with countless hours of good-natured competition and fun. So, chalk up that cue and make a break for long-term enjoyment.
Sources:
1. “Consumer Guide to Pool Tables”, courtesy of American Custom Pool Tables
2. “Pool Table Buying Guide”, courtesy of Boston Tables
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