What Are Pool Tables Made Of?

When you hear the phrase "pool table," you probably picture a large, wooden table with green felt covering its top. However, what you may not realize is that pool tables have evolved and now have a more refined look. You also might not think about the maintenance and upkeep of a pool table. You might not think about what makes up that pool table and what you need to do to care for it.

If you're an owner of a pool table or are thinking of adding one to your home, dive into the world of pool tables and what they are made of.

1. Corner pockets: This is pretty self-explanatory, but these are the pockets in each corner on top of the table

2. Cushion: Think of rails. The cushion is the felt-covered interior of the sides.

3. Playing surface: This refers to the top of the table, where the felt is located. This is where all of the games will take place.

4. Side pockets: These would be the other two pockets, as we've already discussed the corner pockets.

5. Frame: The pool table frame is the structure of the pool table. It is usually made up of solid wood or aluminum.

   
   

The five pool table elements listed above are placed on top of the table legs to create a pool table. In addition to providing structural support, a pool table's legs can be the most visually striking part of the table's design. Many high-end pool tables feature legs crafted from rich, wooden materials with fine details etched into them.

Pool Table Terminology

If you're looking to purchase your first pool table, aren't very familiar with the game's terminology, or want to get more serious about your game, check out this list of things you'll want to know before you start playing.

1. Rack: When playing pool, there's a triangular object where you'll place all the balls to line them up to start the game.

2. Apex of the triangle: This is the top of that rack. Make sure you pay attention, as some games/gameplays require you to place a particular ball in this spot.

3. Break: When you rack the balls, you'll hit the cue ball into the rack. This is called breaking.

4. Cue ball: This is the plain white ball that you'll use to hit the others into the pockets.

5. Center spot: This is the dead center of the pool table.

6. Center string: This imaginary line serves as a reference point, running between the two side pockets and the center spot.

7. Diamonds: These are markings on the rails that are used as reference points or targets. You can explore the diamond approach, a mathematical method for advanced players, which involves taking shots.

8. Foot of the table: This is the end of the table where you rack the balls.

9. Foot spot: This is commonly referenced in-game instructions, so you'll want to locate this spot on your table. It is located at the foot end of the table and aligns with the second diamond on the long rails and the center diamond on the short rail.

10. Foot string: This imaginary line lines up with the second diamond on the long rails. It runs through the foot spot.

11. Head of the table: This end will be opposite the foot of the table. You can distinguish between the head and the foot by the manufacturer's plate. It is usually placed on the head of the table.

12. Head spot: This spot lines up the same as the foot spot, just on the opposite side of the table.

13. Head string: Again, this is the same as the foot string, but on the head side of the table. This is where you'll break from.

There is still a lot more to learn, but this list of terms will help you get started playing and understanding the game of pool.

Why Are Pool Tables Made of Slate?

Pool tables have been around for hundreds of years, with the first one being manufactured in the 1800s. At the time, pool tables were made of wood. A man named John Thurston grew annoyed with these wooden tables because the surface was difficult to play on, and the wood was rotting and warping, which would ruin the table completely.

As an alternative, Thurston invented the slate top pool table. He wanted a material that wouldn't warp, create a smoother playing surface, wouldn't be too expensive, and would be readily available. And slate seemed to be the only one that met all of these, which is still used to make pool tables today.

What is Slate?

Slate is a rock composed of several minerals, including quartz and clay, which are finely grained and can be cut into thin slivers. Because slate can be made so small, it can be placed together and sanded to create a smooth, level surface, perfect for a pool table. The smooth playing surface created by slate minimizes the risk of even the smallest chips or divots interfering with your pool game.

Find Your Pool Table at HB Home Furnishings

HB Home Furnishings would love to help you find the pool table for you! We offer free shipping on online purchases and free professional installation. Once you've checked out, we'll contact you with a questionnaire about your home so we can assign the perfect installer for your home.

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