Whether for recreational sport or competition, the game of pool calls for a high-quality table that will enhance your pool playing experience. While there are cheaper recreational billiard tables out there, most people choose to purchase models designed to last a lifetime. In fact, a high-quality table becomes a family heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation, like a grandfather clock or grand piano, so it’s important to consider your options carefully and ensure that your purchase can stand the test of time. In this pool table buyer’s guide, you’ll find the key factors to consider when purchasing the perfect high-quality pool table.
Size and Spacing
When buying a pool table, it’s important to consider how much space you have. Your options for pool tables can be either an indoor table or an outdoor weatherproofed table. Wherever you choose to install your pool table, remember that when measuring your space, you’ll also need plenty of room on all sides for players to move around and aim their long cue sticks. We recommend at least five feet of space along each side of the pool table for a comfortable playing experience and so that your cue sticks will not hit the wall or column behind you. Do not limit your movements during the game by underestimating your space before buying your pool table. Tables are available in lengths ranging from 6’ – 9’ with varied widths. Who the game is meant for should also be a major consideration when selecting the size of your pool table. For instance, amateur kids would need a much smaller table than expert adults, and so on.
There are three main sizes:
- 7-Foot Table (7.5′ x 3.5′)
- 8-Foot Table (8′ x 4′)
- 9-Foot Table (9′ x 4.5′)
In addition, there are 6-Foot Table (3.75 x 6.41′) and Pro 8 Table (8.75′ x 4.91′) size available
Below is a diagram that shows the minimum amount of space you need for different lengths of pool cues.
B is the space needed when using a 52″ cue.
C is the space needed when using a standard 58″ cue.
- A: 11′ 6″ x 14′ 6″
- B: 12′ x 15′
- C: 13′ x 16′
- A: 12′ x 15′ 6″
- B: 12′ 6″ x 16′
- C: 13′ 6″ x 17′
- A: 12′ 6″ x 16′ 6″
- B: 13′ x 17′
- C: 14′ x 18′
Slate
Slate is a finely ground rock that is polished, shaped, and curved. High-quality billiards tables are made with solid slate stone. Although there are plenty of cheaper playfield surfaces available like wood, quality slate is built to last. 3/4″ inch slate is industry standard, though professionals play on slate with 1″- 1.25″ in thickness. The thicker the slate, the higher the table’s quality, and thus the longer it will last. Additionally, slate provides a more consistent and smoother roll for the billiard balls. Slate stone is a perfect flat surface, milled to precision so the installation would also be very precise ensuring that the flat surface is perfectly achieved for an optimal pool playing experience. Depending on its weight, slate is significantly sturdier compared to other surfaces.
Frame
A good frame defines the aesthetics for a pool table. Solid slate stone playing surfaces come in three pieces and need a sturdy frame to support its weight. Most frames are made from wood, with hardwood being the highest quality option. We also offer contemporary steel frames and engineered wood frames as well. The standard frame for a 3/4” slate stone playing surface uses two crossbeams, but for a thicker slate, you’ll need a quad beam construction. This helps maintain the perfect playing surface and prevents the slate from warping over time. To make the pool table stand out and truly one of a kind, you can customize your frame with custom wood finishes, custom logo felt, and even custom wood species of your choice with our top of the line California House Pool Tables.
Legs
Sturdy legs are crucial to your pool table’s durability. The legs need to support not just the heavy slate and frame, but also the players who lean against or sit on the billiard table while playing the game. The two main types of legs include the post leg and the two-piece leg. The best one is the post also known as the “perfect” leg, which is constructed of a solid piece of wood from floor to frame, to slate. The two-piece or industry standard option leg is made detachable like the name suggests, with a break between the leg and frame. Its attachment is by anchor systems including nuts and bolts. While this is the industry standard, it does decrease the table’s stability.
Rail Cushions
Solid wood rails are the clear choice for rail durability, but choosing the right material for long-lasting cushion lining is less obvious. The cushion provides balls with a natural rebound off the table’s railings. There are two main materials for the cushion: synthetic vs. natural gum rubber. Both provide good rebound for the balls when you start, but over time you’ll notice a difference in the two materials. To achieve consistency in the balls’ bounce, the cushions are covered with felt cloth, just like the slate.
Cloth
The fabric that covers a pool table is typically made from a blend of wool and nylon. The wool gives it a fuzzy texture, and the nylon makes it tear-resistant and more durable. The purpose of the cloth is to help achieve more consistency and smoothness of play. It’s also common to have the fabric coated in Teflon to make it stain-resistant. Good quality billiard cloth will weigh 18 – 22 ounces per yard.
Accessories
When buying a pool table, some models come equipped with the essentials: balls, cues, chalk, and a triangle. However, there are plenty of other accessories you can add to any model that does not include the billiard accessory kit —cue racks, cue cases, and other deluxe pool table accessories. Our Meucci Cue Sticks are top of the line and 100% custom made to order in the USA.
To widen your pool table selection options, it is advisable to consider online pool retailers versus local pool table shops – we carry a much larger selection. While shopping online, you will end up settling for what you truly prefer and not just what is available in your local pool table store due to the significantly higher number of models that we offer for sale.
Related Content