When you are considering investing in a pool table, you have several options and pricing points. Before shopping for pool tables, there are several essential considerations and questions to decide.
#1: How long do you intend to keep the pool table?
This is a major consideration because if you only want a pool table for a few years, you do not want to invest in a high-quality handcrafted table. On the other hand, if you want your pool table to bring years of enjoyment and be a statement piece in your at-home pool room, then investing in a handcrafted pool table makes perfect sense.
#2: What are the leveling options?
A level pool table is crucial to play pool correctly. When the table is not level, balls will not roll accurately across the playing surface. Some pool tables have adjustable legs that can be raised and lowered to ensure the table is level.
Lower-end tables do not always have this option. So, to level the table, you will need to use something to raise the legs until the table is level. Typically, rubber or wood shims are used under the feet to make the pool table frame level to the floor
#3: What materials is the table made from?
Tables are made from a vast array of materials. Solid hardwood tables offer the best play and durability. Outdoor tables are typically constructed from Aluminum. Entry level tables are made from pressboard and typically finished with a formica or a sprayed on finish.
#4: What is the quality of the slate?
Slate is the backbone of a high quality pool table construction. Slates are typically 1 inch but can vary between ¾ inches all the way to 2” in thickness. It should be backed with supporting wood. Each set of slate is diamond honed for precision flatness. Most tables are 3 pieces, antiques were often 4 pieces. Commercial tables vary by manufacturer. Some are 3 piece and others are 1 single piece.
#5: What is the quality of the felt used on the table?
The quality of the felt affects how the balls roll on the playing surface and how long it will last. The best felt contains about 80% wool and 20% nylon. The felt is stretched across the surface and stapled to the wood backing of the slate. Some tables use glue along the outside perimeter of the slate, others use just staples and some use a combination of the two.
#6: What is the quality of the ball returns and ball pockets?
Some tables will only have ball pockets, and other tables will have ball returns. The pockets of a high quality table are typically made from a high grade leather. Entry level tables typically have pockets made from hard plastic which will eventually crack and break overtime. The ball returns should feature sturdy materials that are not prone to damage easily, such as solid hardwoods. Modern tables often have subways made from metal tracks that run around the perimeter of the table and under the slater where they are not seen
What makes one pool table more expensive than another?
If you have spent any amount of time browsing pool tables, you know they can range from around $1,000 to handcrafted customized tables that have a $100,000 price tag. So what makes one table so much less compared to the other?
There are many reasons for such a wide gap in prices. However, it is worth mentioning you can get a quality table for around $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the features and options. So, even if you do not have $100,000 to invest in a pool table, you still have plenty of quality pool table options and designs available.
Some of the primary factors that affect the price of pool tables include:
- The size of the pool table.
- The materials used to build the pool table.
- The thickness of the slate and backing material.
- The quality of the felt and how it is attached to the table.
- The types of customizations and features added to the table.
- The Carverings, Inlays and Exotic Woods of the table
What are the benefits of investing in a handcrafted pool table?
- The top reason to invest in a handcrafted pool table is it will last a lifetime. The quality of the table will provide years of enjoyment.
- Another great reason to purchase a handcrafted table is it is a decorative item that can easily be the statement piece of your game room.
- Best of all, after purchasing a pool table, you will have countless hours of family fun. Parents enjoy teaching their kids how to play pool while enjoying quality family time. Additionally, when friends visit, you can spend time catching up and conversing over several games of pool.
To find the perfect high quality pool table for your home with a wide range of customization options, please feel free to browse our selections online, visit one of our showrooms, or contact Blatt Billiards at 212-674-8855 today!
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