Welcome to Galaxy Home Recreation's Pool Table Buyer's Guide. At Galaxy Home Recreation, we believe that the right pool table can transform your space, providing a focal point for entertainment and social gatherings. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting, selecting the perfect pool table is key to ensuring years of enjoyment. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the types of tables and costs to comparing top brands and exploring customization options. Let's dive in!
Types of Pool Tables
Non-Slate Pool Tables
Non-slate pool tables offer a budget-friendly option for casual players and families, made from materials like particle board or MDF rather than slate. While affordable (typically $300–$1,200), these tables are less durable, susceptible to warping, and can lose their flat playing surface over time, especially in humid environments. With a laminate or veneer top that may chip or peel, non-slate tables are best suited for light, recreational use in low-humidity spaces, ideal for those seeking an entry-level table without a large financial investment.
- Ideal For: Casual play, families, and beginners
Slate Pool Tables
Slate pool tables deliver top-tier quality and performance, featuring a playing surface made from durable, fine-grained slate for unparalleled flatness and accuracy. Though more expensive (ranging from $1,999 to $15,000+), these tables provide a premium experience with true, consistent ball roll. Built with a standard 1-inch slate surface, robust cushions, and sturdy construction, slate tables are highly customizable with various finishes and features, and often come with lifetime warranties. With proper care, these tables can last 20 to 50+ years, making them perfect for serious players, professionals, and billiards enthusiasts.
- Ideal For: Serious players, professionals, and enthusiasts
Brands you Can Trust
Brunswick
Brunswick, established in 1845, is the oldest and one of the most respected pool table manufacturers globally. Known for their commitment to quality and innovation, Brunswick tables are synonymous with durability and performance.
Key Features:
- Brunswick Certified Slate: Ensures flatness and consistency
- SuperSpeed Cushions: Provide patented exceptional rebound and accuracy
- Variety: Wide range of styles from classic to contemporary
- Materials: High-quality hardwoods and premium finishes
Olhausen
Founded in 1973, Olhausen is the largest American-made pool table manufacturer. The brand is celebrated for its craftsmanship, customization options, and use of high-quality materials.
Key Features:
- Accufast Cushions: Known for precise rebound and playability
- Unibody Construction: Ensures stability and ease of installation
- Customization: Extensive options for woods, stains, and finishes
- Durability: Built to last with a lifetime warranty
- Made in the USA: Proudly American-made
Legacy and Plank & Hide
Legacy and Plank & Hide are known for offering stylish and affordable slate tables. These brands cater to those looking for modern designs without a hefty price tag.
Key Features:
- Modern Designs: Focuses on contemporary aesthetics, though sometimes at the expense of traditional craftsmanship.
- Affordability: Competitively priced, making them accessible to a wider audience but potentially compromising on some quality aspects.
- Materials: Uses good quality materials but may not offer the same level of durability as premium brands.
Selecting the Right Size
Choosing the right size pool table is crucial for both playability and room compatibility. The most common sizes include:
7’ Tables
Ideal for bars and homes with limited space, 7-foot tables offer a playing field of 39” x 78”. While they are compact, they may not provide the same challenge as larger tables.
Pros:
- Space-Saving: Fits in smaller rooms
- Casual Play: Suitable for light play and entertainment
Cons:
- Limited Play Area: Smaller playing surface
8’ Tables
The most popular size for home use, 8-foot tables provide a playing field of 44” x 88”. This size balances space and playability, making it suitable for most players. It is 5” x 10” larger playing surface than 7’ tables.
Pros:
- Versatility: Suitable for both casual and serious players
- Standard Size: Commonly used in homes
Cons:
- Space Requirement: Requires a moderately large room
9’ Tables
With a playing field of 50” x 100”, 9-foot tables are the standard for professional tournaments. They offer a more challenging playing experience and are preferred by serious players.
Pros:
- Professional Play: Standard size for tournaments
- Enhanced Challenge: Larger playing surface for skill development
Cons:
- Space Requirement: Requires a large room
- Availability: Very few manufacturers carry a 9’ model due to low popularity
Choosing the Right Pool Table for Your Space
Measure Your Space
Before purchasing a pool table, it's essential to measure the available space to determine the maximum table size that will fit comfortably. Consider not only the dimensions of the table but also the clearance needed around it for cueing. Typically, you should allow for at least 5 feet of space on all sides of the table to ensure a comfortable playing area. Here's a general guide to the minimum room dimensions required based on table size:
- 7' Table: For comfortable playing, requires room size of 13' x 16'
- 8' Table: For comfortable playing, requires a minimum room size of 13' 6" x 17'
- 9' Table: For comfortable playing, requires a minimum room size of 14' x 18'
Construction of a Pool Table
Materials and Finishes
Materials:
- Hardwoods: Maple, oak, mahogany for durability
- Softer Woods/MDF: More affordable, less durable
- Finishes: Wide range of paints, stains and / or varnishes for aesthetic appeal
Cushions
- Profile: K66 most common
- Performance: Accufast (Olhausen), SuperSpeed (Brunswick)
- Durability: High-quality cushions last longer
Rails and Pockets
Types of Pockets:
- Exterior: Attached to rails, available in leather or vinyl
- Interior: Less visible, provides a cleaner look
- Materials: Leather (durable), vinyl (affordable)
Felt
Felt Types:
- Wool/Nylon Blends: Durable and common
- Worsted Wool: Premium, smoother play
- Teflon-Coated: Stain-resistant, ideal for family use
Accessories
Consider additional accessories like cues, racks, and dining tops. High-quality accessories enhance the playing experience and add value to your purchase.
Popular Accessories:
- Cues: Range from basic to professional-grade
- Racks: Wall-mounted or floor-standing
- Dining Tops: Convert table for multipurpose use
- Table Tennis / Ping Pong Tops: Convert table into a full-size ping-pong table, 5’ x 9’
Installation
Site Preparation
Room Readiness: Ensure that the area is clear, level, and ready for the installation.
Table Frame Assembly
Unpacking and Assembly: Our team will unpack the table components and assemble the frame, attaching the legs and other structural elements.
Slate Installation
Positioning and Leveling: The slate pieces will be placed on the frame and carefully leveled.
Sealing Seams: The seams between the slate pieces will be filled and smoothed to create a seamless playing surface.
Felt Installation
Attaching the Felt: The felt will be stretched over the slate and secured, ensuring a smooth and wrinkle-free surface.
Trimming: Any excess felt will be trimmed, providing a clean finish.
Rail and Pocket Installation
Rails and Pockets: The rails will be attached securely, and the pockets will be installed and aligned correctly.
Service & Support for Your Pool Table
Service
For any issues with your pool table, it's important to purchase from a reputable dealer that offers local assistance. Authorized retailers like Galaxy Home Recreation have trained service teams to diagnose and resolve problems promptly, including ordering any necessary parts.
Dealer Support
Partnering with a trusted dealer like Galaxy Home Recreation ensures reliable customer support and service for your pool table. Our team provides expert guidance and support, from the initial purchase through to post-installation care.
Customer Support
At Galaxy Home Recreation, we're committed to providing expert guidance and support throughout your pool table ownership journey. Whether you need help with installation, maintenance, or repairs, our knowledgeable team is here to assist you, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pool Tables in Oklahoma and Arkansas
We hope this buyer’s guide has provided valuable insights to help you find the ideal pool table. Our goal is to assist you in discovering the perfect table that meets your needs. If you have questions as you start your buying journey, please feel free to reach out. With locations across Arkansas and Oklahoma, our expert team is here to support you every step of the way. Be sure to explore our other resources, including our learning center and blog, to learn more about pool tables and your available options.
Shop Pool Tables
Discover our exceptional collection of pool tables crafted to meet all your needs and preferences. Featuring high-quality materials, innovative designs, and a range of styles, our selection has the perfect pool table for every space. Elevate your game room with a stunning pool table and enjoy hours of entertainment and enjoyment today.
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