Everything You Need to Know When Choosing a Pool Table

Are you looking for the perfect pool table to adorn that open space by the hall? If you are, don’t worry about looking anymore. We are here to help you.

A pool table can be a great source of fun especially when you have guests over for that special weekend gathering. It also adds a massive depth of character to any room it's in.

That's not all. Research suggests that playing pool can improve your brainpower, and several attest to the calming, anxiety-relieving powers of cue games. All the more reason to make that investment now, isn’t it?

However, buying the perfect pool table isn’t a decision you should make without learning a few details. Just like any other heavy investment, there are a few things to consider before you buy a pool table for yourself.

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about choosing a pool table.

11 Things to Consider When Buying a Pool Table

Here are the eight aspects of a pool table that you should consider before buying one.

1. Table Material

An essential part of a pool table is the top material underneath the familiar felt layer, which comes in a few types. Here are a few options:

Slate: Slate is the most common and preferred pool material by many pool players. However, it requires a durable and sturdy floor since it is made of solid rock. You might find it difficult to move around tables that are made of slate - these massive units weigh anywhere between 650-1000 pounds— that's as much as a grizzly bear or a grand piano! 

However, it can last for years without warping and feels bulletproof.  That's probably why the World Pool Association standardizes on slate for major championships and tournaments.

Wood: Wood is another common option that’s mostly favored because of its lightweight. However, it can warp quickly, so it isn't a great choice.

Acrylic: Though not suitable for serious players or professionals, they can be great for fun games and kids. They are often convertible and easy to carry around.

2. Felt

Felt refers to the green-colored cloth of the pool table that serves as the immediate playing surface.

The quality of the felt can be a make-or-break factor during an exciting game. The best quality felts are the ones that are glued and screwed onto the table surface for a long-lasting effect. 

You should enquire about the amount of wool content in the felt. Top-quality felt consists of 80 percent wool and 20 percent nylon.

Look for the softness and freshness of the felt and always avoid felts that have scars or burns as re-felting can be costly.

3. Legs

The considerable weight of a pool table is supported by four to eight legs. Since tables can be heavy and players cannot afford a shaky or wobbly platform on which to take shots, having a sturdy and well-constructed foundation for your table is extremely important.

When you sit against the pool table or lean over to take shots, it can add to the stress, wearing down legs over time. 

It’s recommended to buy tables with post or ‘perfect’ legs as they are made of solid wood pieces right from slate down to the feet. They are more reliable and can enhance your gaming experience as time progresses.

The other type of leg is the two-piece or ‘industry standard’ leg.

4. Pockets

It’s better if you can find pool tables with pockets made of soft rubberized plastic as they last longer. Avoid hard plastic as they tend to break and crack with use. Also, double-check if all the pockets are in place and good condition. 

5. Pool Table Level

If the pool table surface is not level, then it can take away your gaming experience by affecting ball motion and throwing your shots off-course. Make sure to buy a pool table that has adjustments on the legs to help with the leveling.

If you find that the tables are not adjustable, an old trick is to stack standard playing cards or any other thin plastic material underneath the legs, which should suffice for most players.

Always make sure to inspect the pool table from every corner and remember that if you constantly move your table, it can fall out of level.

Moreover, it’s best if you have an idea about the methods to level the pool table to avoid spending money on professional help. 

6. Railings and Cushions

Always buy pool tables with railings that are made of hardwood or natural gum as they give the table a good rebounding factor and bounce. The harder the wood, the lesser the vibration upon contact with the ball.

Rails and cushions are important to hold the slate and felt firmly together. If they aren't held properly together, the flow of your game may get hampered. Always look for cushions that have a canvass backing as it aids in adhering to the rail.

7. Playing Accessories

While the most important factor that determines the playing experience of a game is the pool table, any pool enthusiast would know that its accessories also make a huge difference.

Here are some of the accessories that come with the pool table:

• At least two cue sticks and fifteen colored balls along with a cue stand
• A cleaning brush made of cloth and chalk
• Diamond or triangle rack of nine balls

8. Ample Space

Before you rush out to buy a pool table, make sure you have enough space to accommodate the same. You don't want to cramp up space so much that no one's able to move around, do you? Considering the available space in a house is something most people tend to overlook— so break out the measuring tape before making any big decisions.

Though there are tables of different sizes, even the smallest ones require enough open space so that there's enough room on each side of the table to line up the shots.

Hence, first, make sure there's enough space to at least accommodate a small table and then proceed towards your decision of buying a pool table.

9. Price

So, you’ve finally decided to invest in a pool table of your own. The next thing to consider is the amount you can afford to spend. 

While available cash flow is a primary concern, along with this, future use and up-gradation are equally important things to consider. 

10. New or Secondhand Pool Table

Now that most of the important aspects have been touched upon, let’s look at another overlooked characteristic.

It’s not only about considering the size and budget of the table. You could also reflect on whether to make a brand-new pool table purchase or if you can make do with a secondhand option. 

Brand-new pool tables are always more reliable and if you carefully consider all the important factors, you can have a pool table that lasts for decades with almost zero issues.

However, if you put in the effort, you’re highly likely to come across very good-conditioned used pool tables which can save you a lot of money - just be as thorough as possible when understanding the table’s history and how well the previous owner has taken care of it.

11. Warranty

Choosing a pool table that comes with a solid warranty is as important as any other aspect.

Hence always ask for a warranty, especially if you’re considering buying a used pool table. The best companies generally offer lifetime warranties on their products.

Conclusion

Whether you want one just to practice your game or you want it as an additional entertainment option, having a pool table can be an excellent investment to make. 

We hope this helped you gain some insights into the things you need to know when choosing a pool table. Is there anything else you want to know? 

Also, apart from the standard 8-ball or 9-ball games, there are several other games that you can play on a pool table. What’s your most favorite pool table game? Let us know in the comments below!