Buying a pool table is great, and exciting. But it’s not cheap and a mistake can be very expensive. It shouldn’t be scary though! So let us talk you through the process and help you avoid the common pitfalls. After this quick read you’ll be more than ready to fit your games room or home with the perfect pool table & centrepiece.
1. Underestimating Room Size Requirements
You’ve got your table. You’ve planned it for the room. You got the table measurements. You go to take your shot. Bonk! Cue butt meet wall. One of the most common mistakes is not measuring your room properly. It’s not just about fitting the table; it’s about fitting the cue. As a general rule you don’t need to even measure the table dimensions. Simply take the interior dimensions of the play area and add on two cue lengths (one for either side) to the width and length.
Avoiding this problem? Measure your room carefully. Consider the size of the table & the cue. If you’re concerned about space, remember you can opt for a shorter cue. A 52” cue instead of a 57” cue gives you nearly a foot extra room.
2. Choosing The Wrong Table Style
Not all pool tables are the same. British pool tables, American pool tables, and snooker tables vary in size, speed, pocket shape, & gameplay. Before you buy make sure you’re actually buying the table for the game you want to play.
If you’re not sure of the differences check out our guide on American vs British pool. If you’re unsure or mostly used to playing at the pub it’s likely you’re used to playing British pool. American pool (while growing) is still more of a niche, enthusiast game.
3. Ignoring Build Quality & Materials
Cheaper tables might look good online, but poor-quality materials can lead to warping, unstable legs, and poor gameplay. Bear in mind that not only is a pool table expensive – it’s a pain to get in and out of your home. While we offer removal services and recovering services – once it’s installed, you’ll really want it to just stay where it is.
We specialise in slate bed tables since – when you think about it – a perfectly flat surface is beyond essential to cue sports. And that craftsmanship is consistent across every part of our tables. Solid wood frames, professional grade cloths from trusted brands like Supreme and Hainsworth.
4. Overlooking Delivery and Installation Services
A pool table is heavy – typically between 200kg and 400kg – moving it yourself can be risky. You might be tempted to opt for the delivery only option and save a little. However, the £100 you might spend on installation is a lot cheaper than a table broken while being moved/installed – or heaven forbid, any injury sustained doing so yourself.
At Home Pool Tables Direct, we offer professional delivery and installation services to ensure any pool table is set up perfectly no matter where you are in the country. Ground floor or attic. Cornwall or Land’s End.
5. Not Considering Future Use
A pool table is a long-term purchase, so think ahead. Many of the brands we stock offer both pool tables and pool dining tables. Now, you can pop some hard pool table tops on any table. But you won’t be able to sit at it if it has a deep pub-style body instead of the slimline diner one. They function identically and much of the small price bump is simply in the cost of the table tops. You can always use a pool diner as just a pool table forgoing the diner function. However, you can’t use a non-diner as a diner ever.
Choose a model that suits your lifestyle now and later – you’ll enjoy your investment much more.
Congratulations you’re now ready to buy your home pool table! Check out our huge stock of tables, customise them to your liking and style, and we’ll handle the delivery and installation. If you’ve got any questions feel free to contact us or even drop by our showroom – we’re always happy to help.
