Pool Table Covering Instructions

Covering your pool table when you are not using it helps to keep it from being scratched, damaged or stained by people hanging out around the table. There are many types of covers that help protect the felt surface of pool tables in different ways.

Cloth Cover

A cover made of cloth can simply be put over the table to keep it from collecting dust. This cloth can be made out of just about anything, ranging from the same material a table cloth is made from to a nicer satin or silk cloth, which will give the pool table a unique look. This type of cover is best for a pool table that is indoors in an area of a house or business with little foot traffic. These covers aren't very expensive when bought online or at a billiards store, though they get more pricey with nicer material. If you really want to save money, you could even use a bed sheet to create your own cover.

Outdoor Cover

While outdoor pool tables are somewhat rare, they are still prominent in places where there isn't enough room to have a pool table indoors and there isn't a terrible amount of inclement weather. These tables should be covered at all times when they are not being used as water or to much heat are not good for the the felt of a pool table. A tarp or waterproof vinyl can be used to cover these outdoor tables, as they can take a full-on downpour of rain and leave the sensitive areas of the pool table totally dry underneath the cover. It is incredibly important to ensure this cover does not leak at all. Tarps are reasonably cheap though formal waterproof covers are more expensive, as they are specifically designed for the pool table.

Sections Under Cover

Two square sections or one large rectangular section of plywood or particle board can also be carefully added to the surface of the pool table before the cover is pulled over it. This will create a hard surface that can double as a table so people can put drinks on this covered surface at parties or serve food off of it, helping the pool table to double as an actual table when it is not being used or when it is necessary for an activity around the pool table. The cover used for this should definitely be waterproof, just to protect the table from any spills that may occur.