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Sunday, December 1, 2013

Tips on Buying a Pool Table

Tips on Buying a Pool Table

Pool tables provide a fabulous centerpiece for anyone who wants a state-of-the-art game room. It doesn't matter if you are a novice, want to learn pool or just want something to entertain the guests, a pool table works on many levels. In order to get the best value, you must make sure your table is built to last and follows basic pool table construction standards. Although a cheap table may tempt you, remember that when it comes to pool tables, something that sounds too good to be true, may not be that good after all.

Make Sure You Have the Space

    A pool table can transform a drab living room into an exciting game room that will entertain your family and guests. However, if your room is too small, it doesn't matter how great your pool table is. You need to make sure the room can fit the table and provide enough space to play the game. Brunswick Billiards recommends a room that is 22 feet by 15 feet or larger. At the very least, your room should be wide and long enough to account for both the table dimensions and the pool cue's 57-inch length.

Know the Various Types of Tables

    Pool tables come in a variety of sizes and styles. A full-size pool table is over 8 feet in length and a mid-size table is over 7 feet in length. If you plan to use your table in a bar or want to charge for the table use, consider a coin operated table. Cheaper pool tables sometimes come in convertible varieties that allow the table to be converted into a ping-pong or air hockey table as well. Most of the fancier tables are a combination of slate and wood. If you have a large backyard or garage space, you can get an outdoor pool table. Consider your price range, space and what you want to use your table for before you decide which pool table to get.

Make Sure Your Table has the Proper Dimensions

    As outlined in The Sports Book, pool tables have basic dimensions. If you find a pool table for a great price that does not conform to these dimensions, you should be wary. Full-size pool tables measure 4-feet, 2-inches by 8-feet, 4-inches. A mid-size table measures 3-feet, 10-inches by 7-feet, 8-inches. A pool table's height can vary but usually falls within the 29 and 1/4 inch to 31 inch range. Corner pockets are about 4 and 1/2 inches wide and side pockets are around 5 and 1/5 inches wide. Child-size tables will be smaller, but should maintain the basic 2:1 length-to-width ratio.

Look for the Best Price

    To find the best pool table price, scour the Internet and visit any pool table retailers in your town. On-line marketplaces like eBay frequently have pool tables. The main disadvantage to buying a pool table on-line is that you won't have a chance to test it out. One way to get around that is to see if your local pool table retailer has a certain brand that you like. Once you know how the brand looks and feels in person, you can go for the on-line price if it's better.
    Another problem with buying a pool table on-line is that the shipping costs can be quite high. However, certain retailers like AlmontPool have flat shipping for as low as $8.99. Also, it's worth noting that many in-person retailers will charge comparable delivery and/or installation fees of a few hundred dollars.
    For the more budget conscious shopper, consider looking in local thrift stores and flea markets for the rare pool table.

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