How to Buy a Pool table

A buyer’s guide

Whether you are beginning to think that your old pool table deserves a break, or you are buying one for the first time, you definitely need a good piece of advice on the key features you have to discover before you buy a pool table. In general, before buying pool tables, you must think about the following points:

The Size of the Table

The size of the table is the initial thing that you have to look at. According your room and your level of interest, you can select different sized tables. The variety mainly ranges from 7’, 8’ and 9’. Your level at pool is what decides which size you should opt for, for example, a beginner who wants to practice a lot should buy himself a 9’ pool table. Another factor which depends on the size is where you are going to place the pool table, i.e. in your house, your workplace or just in your store.

Slate versus Non slate

Before you think about which one to buy, you must know about what exactly is a slate. The play surface under the billiard table is called its slate. It provides an even surface for the balls to freely move on the pool table without any hindrance. Slatron is the best type of slate and one can easily afford it too. However, there are a few reasons why you may decide not to go for slate pool tables as well. Apart from the cost of slate tables, the weight of slate can be a turnoff for pool table buyers. If you are going to move your pool table on a regular basis, you must go for non slate ones.

Cloth, rails and pockets

A pool table usually uses a nylon cloth. Whether it is pure or synthetic nylon doesn’t matter as both wok fine. Nylon lets the balls slide over easily thus is a better option. As for rails, solid wood rails show the best performance. This is because solid wood rails will be able to keep in shape, unlike compressed wood and MDF rails. Go for wider rails as they will give you more space for you to make a shot. For cushions, select rubber. Live Gum Rubber works best. The style for pockets depends on where your pool table is placed. For pool tables in your house, drop pockets are the best option. For commercial pool tables, ball return feature is a wise choice. For a more professional look, you may select the enclosed drop pockets.

Installation

Most pool tables are not installed before they are delivered. You will either have to assemble them together your own self or contact a professional installer. Keep in mine that this may be an additional cost aside from that of the table and accessories. When you buy the pool table, do not forget to ask the seller about installation services and costs.