Buying a Pool Table

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Pool Table?
Potential pool table buyers should approach a pool table purpose much the same as a pool cue purchase: form must follow function. Yes, you must consider the space for which your pool table is intended, but, perhaps more importantly, you must consider how seriously you take the game.

Size Generally, all pool tables are ideal rectangles; they are half as wide as they are long, and table lengths vary based on the use of the table. English billiard and snooker tables, for example, are generally 12 feet long as they're meant for games played with a large number of billiard balls. Pool halls tend to use 9-foot tables for pool devotees; bars tend to use 7-foot pool tables geared toward the amateur shark. Typically, pool tables for home use are 8 feet long, though they range from 7 to 10 feet long. Larger tables obviously feature a larger playing field for those who really want to hone their pool playing skills.

Keep in mind, though, that you must allow 5 to 6 feet of clearance space around the pool table's perimeter so players can walk, assume stances, and freely take shots.

Surface
High-quality pool tables feature table beds made of three pieces of 1-inch thick slate to combat warping. Table topping material also comes in low and high qualities; low, or "slow," quality table coverings are made of durable felt, while higher, or "fast," quality table coverings are made of very fine worsted wool (the nap, or lack of nap, of the tables affects the speed of balls' movements during play).

Assembly
Determining the size and quality of the pool table you desire might be the hardest - and key - part of buying a table, but do keep in mind a few other factors of the purchase and installation.

• Pre-built frames are generally stronger than home-assembled frames.
• Professional installation ensures your pool table is sturdy enough for years of home use.