Six Qualities to Look for in a Pool Table

Playing pool has always been a popular pastime. With people spending more time at home now than ever before, there’s no better time to purchase your very own pool table to rack ‘em up with family and friends in the comfort of your living room, den, basement, or game room.

A pool table is a significant investment, and not all options are created equal. This begs the question: How do you choose one that will deliver the quality you’re looking for so that you can look forward to enjoying it for years to come?

Read on for a roundup of what to look for when buying a pool table.

1. Hardwood Construction

A flimsy pool table won’t just fall apart sooner; it can also impact the results of the game. While the cost of a pool table with a solid wood frame and solid legs may seem steep, it’s an investment in the longevity of your pool table as well as the quality of play.

Think of it this way: The weight of the pool table sits on the frame and rests on the legs. As such, these elements must be strong and have excellent screw holding capabilities. Solid wood far outperforms plywood and particle board in these aspects.

2. A Level Surface

If you’ve ever tried to play a game of pool on a sloped or uneven surface, you know that it can render the table virtually useless. A high-quality pool table from a reputable maker will come with a level of quality assurance as far as the surface is concerned. Additionally, some pool tables have adjustable legs to allow for leveling that may be necessary if a table is moved to an uneven setting or falls out of level.

Speaking of the surface, a diamond-honed surface is optimal. If the pool table has a three-piece slate, a matched slate is also preferable. Lastly, the ideal thickness for pool table slate is ¾ of an inch.

3. High-Quality Rails and Cushions

As with the pool table frame and legs, rails should be made from hardwood, too. This minimizes vibration when the ball comes into contact with them. Some rails are laminated; if you’re considering a pool table with laminated rails, confirm that it’s a high-pressure laminate. Canvas backing should also be included with all cushions, as this supports adherence of the cushion to the rail.

4. High-Quality Pool Table Felt

The best pool table felt has a wool content of at least 80 percent. This is more durable than felt with a higher concentration of nylon. Additionally, a lasting pool table surface will not be held in place by glue and staples; it should first be glued into place with heavy-duty glue and then screwed in.

5. Rubberized Pockets

While hard plastic can crack and break over time, rubberized plastic is softer and can withstand ongoing contact with balls and cues.

6. Attractive Design Details

We may not think of pool tables in terms of design details. However, every piece of furniture you bring into your home should complement and enhance its aesthetic – and pool tables are no different. If you’re planning on playing a lot of pool (and why wouldn’t you be?), seeking out one that meets your specifications in terms of performance and design is especially important. For example, details like leather pockets, hand-carved ornamentation, the finish of the wood, and the color of the felt can all elevate a pool table to become a stunning focal point in your home.

Find Your Perfect Pool Table from Porch & Patio

If you’re thinking of buying a pool table, why settle for something ordinary when you can have a truly extraordinary piece instead? Contact Porch & Patio today to learn more about our high-quality pool tables and how to bring your dream billiards room to life!