Pool Table Buying Guide

When buying a new pool table, research and preparation can go a long way. With careful consideration, you can ensure you get the perfect model for your space.

Here's a breakdown of everything you need to know about buying a pool table and useful tips for finding the best option. From style to build, we have the industry expertise to help you decide so you can start playing as soon as possible.

Pool Table Size Requirements

Pool tables come in varying sizes, from 7 feet to 9 feet. The size you choose depends on the size of your room, player skill level, and personal preference. You need enough space to accommodate the table, cue length, and player movement. You also want to consider the skill level of the players because table dimensions affect the play. For less experienced players or a group of experienced and inexperienced players, a smaller table would be ideal as it makes it easier to score and enjoy the game. Seasoned players may prefer the largest table for the available space to make the matches more competitive.

The best pool table size for a home with players of varying ages and skill levels is 7 to 8 feet. It should make it easier for a player to move around the space comfortably. Our guide on pool tables and room sizes will help you learn more about size requirements.

How Are Pool Tables Made?

Today's pool table manufacturers meet the Billiards Congress of America specifications. They typically feature cloth-covered playing surfaces with wooden rails and rubber cushions constructed around the perimeter. The table's top sits on a sturdy frame and legs made from hardwood or metal.

Aside from basic construction, how pool tables are made varies based on materials and style preferences, resulting in varying degrees of quality and aesthetics. However, there's more to making quality pool tables than the materials used — proper installation is an essential part of how a table functions for gameplay. HB Home offers delivery and installation already built into the price of our pool tables for your convenience.

Components of a Quality Pool Table

What pool table components should you evaluate before purchasing? When shopping for a pool table, the table's build is one of several factors that impact quality. Here's an overview of factors to pay attention to when selecting the best-quality pool tables:

• Table bed: Look for a table bed with slate construction. According to the World Pool Association (WPA) specifications, slate is the most durable material and offers the most accurate play. BCA recommends a minimum of 1-inch slate thickness for professional and recreational games.

• Frame/cabinet: You need a frame that can sufficiently support the slate. The stronger the cabinet frame, the more stable the slate will be, ensuring a smooth and level playing surface.

• Rails/cushions: The rails, which are the outer part of the table, support the cushions or the inner walls. For efficient play, you want a robust rail system, with the rails made of solid hardwood and the cushions made of gum rubber.

• Legs: Pool tables have varying leg styles or supporting structures, from basic pedestals and intricately curved legs to luxury support structures. Since the style you choose depends on your budget and preference, the key factor to consider when examining the legs is solid support.

• Cloth: Billiards cloth covers the table's surface. A quality pool tablecloth has a positive impact on the look, feel, durability and playability. Since thread count affects cloth rating, you want to get a high thread count for better quality. Depending on the players ' skill level, you can also choose between a recreational grade and a tournament grade cloth.

Other Considerations When Investing in a Pool Table

Aside from the pool table build, other factors that impact product quality include premium materials, installation and artisanship. Premium materials and expert artisanship guarantee a stylish table with robust features. However, it takes the installation expertise of an established provider like HB Home to guarantee pool table longevity.

In addition, consider your provider's warranty terms. Reliable manufacturers and dealers will offer industry-leading warranties to back up their products. It's a testament to their quality and an assurance that you're getting your money's worth. You may want to confirm whether the terms are in your best interest. A five to 10-year limited warranty is acceptable, but the leading industry warranty term for billiard tables is a limited lifetime warranty, which means coverage lasts for as long as you own the table.

What Are the Different Styles of Pool Tables?

To choose the perfect pool table for your space, you'll want to consider your interior design and aesthetic preferences. Different designs complement different home styles, like choosing a mid-century modern pool table over a farmhouse style for your mid-century home.

Here are several popular styles to explore.

• Modern: A modern pool table might be ideal for you if you favor furnishings with minimalist aesthetics and clean lines.

• Mid-century modern: The combination of hardwood and rounded corners can give your pool table a classic feel.

• Farmhouse: If you're into rustic furnishings and natural wood elements, a farmhouse-style pool table will complement your space.

• Industrial: Industrial-inspired pool tables are edgy and modern while featuring a classic twist.

• Outdoor: These outdoor pool tables are made from top-quality materials that withstand outdoor elements. They are also multifunctional, featuring a dining surface complete with benches. For example, the Esterno 3-in-1 Outdoor Pool Table serves as a pool table, dining set and tennis table.

• Dining: These modern, convertible pool tables are multipurpose, with plenty of space underneath like any other table. The unique design features a dining top and benches or seats for additional versatility and functionality.

Pool Table Lighting

When buying a pool table, consider proper lighting since it will affect your ability to play. Pool table lighting is not the same as the lighting in the room because the table has different lighting needs. Players will need to see the entire table for an effective experience. That means getting the brightness and positioning right to eliminate all shadows from the table's surface.

If the light is too low, you'll hit it with your cue. If it's too high, it'll likely cast shadows on the pool cloth. For proper light positioning, hang the fixture anywhere from 31 to 36 inches above the table surface. Ensure the light fixture is centered and bright enough to avoid casting shadow angles on the balls.

You'll need one or more lighting fixtures with enough luminous power to distribute light around the table evenly. There are multiple pool table lighting designs, from pendant lamps to perimeter ceiling lights.

Pool Table Accessories

Pool tables have a variety of accessories, some of which are specific to the type of table, such as pool cues, cue rests and the 9-ball diamond. When buying a new pool table, remember to get accessories so you can begin playing right away. To enhance the game and streamline your playing experience, you can go beyond the starter kit by investing in higher-quality pool table and room accessories.

Here are accessories to get you started:

• Cue sticks: Pool cues are an essential pool table accessory, and choosing high-quality options will make your investment last longer.

• Cue stick bridge: A retractable billiard cue stick bridge is a handy tool that can make playing easier.

• Balls: Pool balls are another must-have item, and it can be beneficial to purchase a spare set. Also, you'll need to ensure you have ball triangles.

• Ball polish: Caring for pool balls with polish will help them last longer and stay in optimal condition.

• Storage: With wall racks for storage, you can worry less about misplacing your cues, balls and triangles.

• Cue chalk: Chalk creates much-needed friction on the cue's tip to keep it from slipping off the ball during a shot.

• Cue tip repair kits: A cue tip repair kit can help prolong the service life of your pool cues and keep them in optimal condition.

• Scoreboards: If you like to be competitive with your friends and family, you'll want to get a scoreboard to track your game.

• Table cover: Investing in a pool table cover can keep the surface in excellent shape.

Installation

It is advisable to work with a vendor, like HB Home, who can guide you through your options and provide professional installation as part of their services. Remember, installation is critical to the table, which demands proper alignment for effective gameplay. You need expert installation to ensure pool table quality and longevity.

Maintenance

Pool tables are strong pieces of furniture, but they can also be delicate in certain conditions. By following the best practices for pool table care maintenance, you can fully take advantage of a pool table's robust structure and extend its life span. For instance, you don't want to lean against or sit on the table or place it in moisture-prone areas. You must also regularly clean the table and its accessories using proper methods to keep it in good condition.

Things to Do Before Buying a Pool Table

As you figure out how to buy a pool table that meets quality, style and budgetary needs, take the following steps before proceeding with the purchase:

• Measure the room: Room dimensions are key to the table fitting your space, so take precise measurements that account for the necessary space needed to play safely and comfortably.

• Set a budget: Pool tables are available in a wide price range. By setting a budget, you can quickly narrow down your choices and save time while browsing different options.

• Decide on a style: Evaluate your space and its design style to ensure you choose a pool table that complements the rest of your home.

• Make a delivery plan: Providers tend to have varying delivery options. Select a process that fits your schedule.

Shop Pool Tables and Accessories From HB Home

Different pool table features, including size, style and construction, play a role in its quality and aesthetic appeal. Before making a purchase, it's important to pay attention to the various aspects that make a quality pool table to ensure the best return on your investment.

Are you interested in getting a quality pool table for your space? Turn to HB Home. You can choose from our wide selection of pool tables and accessories. We have everything you need to elevate your game room, including pool cue wall racks and pool table felt in various colors.

In addition to free shipping, we offer white-glove delivery and installation for your expertly-built pool table. Our products have a limited lifetime warranty and feature high-quality craftsmanship. Are you ready to get started? Browse pool tables and accessories from HB Home today!