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> frequently asked questions
How much does a pool table weigh?
A typical 8’ slate pool table weighs about 750 pounds.
What is a standard size pool table? How do I know what size table I have?
Most people refer to an 8' table as a standard for home use. The playing field is 44" x 88". Most coin operated tables are 7' and tournament sized tables are 9'. The best way to find out what size you have is to measure from cushion tip to cushion tip on the short side of the table. The length is always double the width. The only time you should measure the outside dimensions of your table is when you are ordering a custom cover.
How long will my felt last?
If the table is used daily for four hours a day you can expect your cloth to last about 3 years. Most people however will choose to change the color long before it is worn out. You can prolong the life of your cloth by brushing your table regularly. Remember, keeping your table covered is the best way to protect it.
How do I brush my table?
The best way to brush the table is to stay in one direction. This will keep the nap of the cloth uniform. It is also okay to use a small hand held vacuum cleaner to keep your table looking fresh. A lint roller is also a lifesaver for dark cloth colors or pet hair and is safe to use.
Is it okay to move a pool table without taking it apart?
99% of the time the answer is “NO”. The only exceptions are tables that are constructed to be placed on their sides (coin operated tables) or in a situation where there is a large opening that the table can be dollied out as a whole. You should still consult a professional before moving your table yourself. Even tables in these situations can be damaged if they are improperly supported. NEVER take the legs off of a furniture style table or turn it on its side to try and fit it through the door. This will only cause major headaches and cost a small fortune to fix.
How much space do I need for my pool table?
A standard 44” x 88” (8’) pool table needs a minimum of 42” around the playing field. Ideally you should have at least 58” for a standard sized cue. Click here for a pop-up room chart.
Is it neccessary to replace the felt when moving a pool table?
No. The cloth can usually be saved if it has been removed carefully and has not been stretched more than twice before.
How long should my cushion rubber last?
Generally 20-25 years, although some tables last longer. If the table has seen direct sunlight, cushion life will be reduced. We have also seen tables less than five years old that have bad cushions. It is unusual but it happens. You can test your cushions by thowing a ball firmly against a cushion on the short side. It should make 3-4 cushion contacts before coming to rest. The telltale sign of a dead cushion is a “thud” noise on contact. Cushions should be quiet and lively.
How high should I hang my lamp above my table?
There should be 32-36” between the bottom of the lamp and cloth on the table.
When should I replace my cue tip? (How can I prevent tears in my cloth?)
You should check your cue regularly for wear. When the leather tip wears down to the thickness of dime it is time to replace it. By keeping your tip in good shape, you will not only get consistant play but also prevent tears in the cloth from miscues.
Can I put a pool table upstairs?
Yes! There may be an additional fee to move a table up a flight of stairs, but there is no reason that you can not put it there. We are assuming that your place is up to code of course. The table is probably as heavy as five or six big men.
What are billiard balls made of?
High quality balls are made of pure phenolic resin. Lower quality balls are made of polyester or other polymers. Resin balls last longer, clean easier and prevent cloth burns.
What do I do? I spilled my drink on my cloth!
Remember that prevention is key. You should not eat or drink near your table. But, if you do find yourself in this situation, act quickly. Sop up as much liquid as possible with clean dry paper towels. The longer the liquid sits, the more it will stain the cloth.
The game was originally played with two balls on a six-pocket table with a hoop similar to a croquet wicket and an upright stick used as a target. During the 18th century, the hoop and target gradually disappeared, leaving only the balls and pockets. Most of our information about early billiards comes from accounts of playing by royalty and other nobles. It has been known as the “Noble Game of Billiards” since the early 1800’s, but there is evidence that people from all walks of life have played the game since its inception. In 1600, the game was familiar enough to the public that Shakespeare mentioned it in Antony and Cleopatra.
The cue stick was developed in the late 1600’s. When the ball lay near a rail, the mace was very inconvenient to use because of its large head. In such a case, the players would turn the mace around and use its handle to strike the ball. The handle was called a “queue”- meaning “tail”- from which we get the word “cue”.
Tables originally had flat vertical walls for rails and their only function was to keep the balls from falling off. They resembled riverbanks and even used to be called “banks”. Players discovered that balls could bounce off the rails and began deliberately aiming at them.. Before then, there were no fixed table dimensions.
- from A Brief History of the Noble Game of Billiards by Mike Shamos
