Finding the greatest table within the budget is a big problem when buying a pool table for a business. Although the general game may seem straightforward, there are differences in the tables that must be taken into account before buying. What you purchase will determine the satisfaction and convenience of play for your guests, staff, or anyone else who is playing a match. Size and appearance are important factors when shopping for a professional pool table, but there are other factors as well.
The Expert Pool Table Buying Guide
A pool table is an investment, so only get one if you think it will be good for your business in the long run. Instead of buying something on a whim, thoroughly consider the following points before starting your search.
Professional Pool Table top Varieties
Since all of the action takes place at the top of the table, it is usually the most important element. Before choosing the material, take the goal and the budget into account. Value, like any purchase, is about more than just financial savings. Finding cheap entertainment shouldn’t be your main focus, especially in light of the proverb “you get what you pay for.” Professional pool tables and pool table accessories should be durable enough to endure wear and abuse from players and the environment while still offering a level of play that entices people to return. Don’t just compare the cost when evaluating the different top materials.
Various Tops
There are less expensive options for a professional pool tabletop, like particleboard, honeycomb, and Slatron. Particleboard is affordable and lightweight. However, variations in temperature or moisture might result in harm or warping. The surface has a honeycomb top and is made of compacted layers of hard plastic. Although it doesn’t warp like medium-density fiberboard, the surface may become rougher and more unstable due to the lack of weight on it. Particleboard and reinforced plastic are combined to create Slatron. It is a durable synthetic option that delivers acceptable quality for the price point. Click here to learn more.
The Best Type Of Play
The next critical choice is what kind of play to make. There are two main game types available at professional tables: coin-operated play and open play.
Which one you want at your institution will depend on the type of player you anticipate having.
Coin-operated tables are preferred because most patrons will want to play one or two games informally at casual eateries with one to three tables. The most common tables in this market are Valley/Dynamo tables, also referred to as “bar-box” tables and approximately 7 feet long.
For establishments that intend to hire the tables by the hour, open play tables—also known as those that don’t “hold” the balls after they have been potted—are designed. The most devoted gamers should play at these tables. These customers come in to play pool, and they could also get something to drink. The contrary is more likely to be true of coin-operated tables (people who come in for a drink and might play pool). If you’re opening a specialty pool hall and want to organize leagues, etc., stay away from the coin-op method. Pool tables come in many top-notch brands, but we recommend Diamond tables for open play. To discover more, go here.
Building of Pool Tables
The frame or table cabinet stabilizes the playing surface. Typically, it is made of thick wooden boards and has a big rectangular frame. The longevity of the table depends on how the parts are put together, and the tabletop’s material also affects how durable the frame should be. The most common design uses a center beam and cross beams to support the slate.
By duplicating the center beam or distributing the whole weight from side to side, some designs do away with the need for the central weight-bearing. Depending on the table’s size and material choice, the weight may be supported by a central pedestal or numerous legs. The tabletop is fastened to the frame before putting the other components together. With the price of the pool cabinet rising, the likelihood that the major components of the frame are less expensive particle board or plastic rises.
Slate
The ideal surface material for a pool table is slate. If you can afford it, invest in a genuine slate table; anything less is a step down and is not cost-effective, especially for a business. That right there is the humor.
Although this option often has the largest price tag, it is a wise investment. This surface, which normally won’t warp or crack, gives players a smooth, pristine surface for each shot. The best slate materials are typically supplied by Brazil or Italy. Given that pool requires a fully level table, slate stone’s natural tendency to split into flat, wide pieces makes it an ideal material for the game.
It’s recommended to use slate pieces with a minimum 1-inch top, even when thinner pieces could be less expensive. Genuine slate tops come in a variety of sizes. It will hold up to use by your business as the tournament recommendation from the Billiard Congress of America.
Slate occasionally needs to be shipped in three separate pieces due to its heavy weight and size. You will typically see each component diamond-honed, matched, and registered to show that it came from the same piece of slate. Because the table is a heavy and challenging object to move, plan on it staying in the same place or hiring a professional to help with the relocation. We also advise having a professional installer set up the table for you if you want to get a three-piece slate bed so that the seam is perfect.
The Classics, Fashion, and Beauty
A professional pool table will catch attention no matter where it is situated due to its nature, but having components that mix in with the surroundings provides a friendly environment. Consider the aesthetics of the space while deciding which table style will look best for your company. If you want to appreciate the core table style that has been around for decades, the traditional design is the ideal option. A hardwood frame is supported by intricate or antique-looking table legs in this design. Typically, the top felt is red or antique green.
Contemporary and Modern
A modern design is often expensive with lots of unique features, in contrast to the well-known design of a professional pool table. Pedestals, which come in a variety of colors and shapes with pockets and felt hues, typically take the place of table legs. Some tables can have a top LED glass cover added to them to emphasize different camera angles, while some tables already have neon or track lighting installed. Compared to a modern table, modernizing the more traditional table is less noticeable. The trim is polished, contemporary black instead of stained hardwoods, and the traditional red or green felts have been swapped out for patterned or colored felt designs.
All Sizes of Skills
To play pool professionally, there needs to be enough space for the table to be set up and for the players to move about it. The various cue types define what you should deem appropriate space for the table. A 9-foot table is regarded as professional, while a 7-foot table is regarded as bar size. You need a room that is at least 14′ by 18’6′ to play pool with a 9′ table and standard pool cues.
How to Purchase a Professional Pool Table
Now that you know what kind of professional pool table to look for, you can make more thoughtful decisions about quality and price. At Penguin Brand, we offer high-quality pool table replacement parts and accessories to keep your games going. Check out what we currently have if you need to fix your bar-box table.