If you’re considering buying a billiards table, you must take several steps before purchasing. These steps will help you choose the best billiard table for your home’s size and your family’s playing habits.
Take Room Measurements
Before buying a billiards table, measure the space where you’ll place it. In addition to the tables, people and pool cues also fill the room. Measure your room carefully, and note its length and width
Typically, regulation billiard tables are 8 feet by 4 feet, but the size may vary. Add five feet to the table on either side for moving the pool cue. For an 8′ x 4′ table, you need an 18′ x 14′ area, or you’ll poke holes in your walls.
Research Table Design and Styling
How skilled are the people who will use the table? Basic tables aren’t too expensive, but they wear out after a couple of years. So you may have to get them re-felted or make other repairs.
Family-friendly smaller billiards tables are simpler, but regular-sized tables are more versatile. Competitive billiards tables should have hardwood frames, slate playing surfaces, and rubber cushioned edges.
Let’s not forget aesthetics. The game room will be the focus of your home when you select a stylish pool table.
Decide on Your Budget
Material, size, and aesthetics affect pool table prices. Prepare your budget beforehand to avoid getting dirty looks from your family.
Budget billiards tables usually cost between $500 and $1,000. They are made from particleboard, which may warp with time. Legs can become wobbly with time, but they’re still a good choice for families who don’t play much.
A medium-grade billiard table costs around $1,500-$3,000. Their durable materials make them ideal for serious game rooms.
Lastly, heirloom tables cost between $2,500 and $15,000. You can customize them to suit any room. Families can pass them down for generations, which makes them precious heirlooms.
Contact a Professional
An expert salesperson can explain billiard table construction to you. You can buy a billiards table at a sporting goods store or department store, but you won’t find anyone with experience in the industry.
You’re better off going to a store specializing in recreation room furniture. Play at several tables, ask questions, and thoroughly inspect the tables. Some questions you can ask include:
- What material does the table consist of?
- How can I clean it?
- What are the associated costs?
Think About the Installation
If you can afford it, hire a local professional to put the table together and movers to move it to its proper location. It costs $550 to deliver a billiard table on average.
In addition to being challenging to assemble, improper construction can lead to shaky legs, a flimsy frame, and a bad gameplay experience. Do it yourself if you must, but enlist helpers.
Obtain a Warranty
Even average billiards tables cost more than $2,000 on average. Purchase an extended warranty to protect it. Most have a limited warranty covering repairs and routine maintenance for a few years.
Extended warranties are recommended for long-term use. Also, some luxury table companies provide lifetime warranty coverage. Research before you buy.
