What kind of billiard table suits your space?
Logic should bring you to a concluding gauge that in choosing what kind of billiard table suits your space, it all depends on your preference. While there are varied choices, start by determining what is it for. And whether it is for professional use or to increase your social life, there are certain parameters to consider.
COMMERCIAL LOCATION VS. HOME
If you plan to rent out pool tables as a business or provide a venue for hire, the space you have will determine the maximum number of tables you may put in it. Also, consider the number of people that would come by. The usual size of a professional pool table is generally 9 ft. x 4.5 ft. and is used when you have an adequately spaced room with ideal dimensions around 13’8″ x 17’10”. The thing is, if you have a really big area that could hold a couple or more, then these measurements are to be considered. However, with 8-foot tables considerably professional enough, the ideal pool size of 7-foot tables will suffice.
Take note that commercial space is not just limited to having bars or pool centres. Your business may expand into training grounds for growing professionals where 9-foot tables are much preferred. Having this sets somebody accustomed to playing on a harder and more challenging table. Later on, after getting used to the 9-foot tables, 8-foot tournament tables will be manageable.
Now, with the room size, 13’8″ x 17’10” may allow 9-foot tables, especially within function rooms. Although, 8-foot tables are the most promising choice. If you have means to get it, give it to yourself since it’s for your skill development. But with a standard 8-foot size, you may practice from home like a pro.
THE ACTUAL SIZES
After determining how much space you’re working on and what’s the purpose of putting up a pool table (commercial or personal), it’s time for you to know what are the actual sizes to choose from.
- 3.5 ft. x 7 ft. – the general size for a pool table in a bar
This is the usual pool size for a setting in a bar. It’s small and in which 48″ cue sticks to play is no big deal. If your room only has the 11’6″ x 14’6″ dimension, this will be the perfect one to consider. Some pool businesses would fill in an area as well that’s why they opt for this size. Also, there are rooms with immovable posts or pillars in the way because it was either transformed from a divided room into a bare one like putting down walls or removing dividers. If there is so, this may indeed is the best option.
- 4 ft. x 8 ft. – they are the most common size out there
With a playing area of 44″ x 88″, this size can generally fit everywhere. Without a doubt, this is the best size to put in your home. The room that should receive this size of a pool table is ideally 12′ x 15’6″ which usage of 48″ cue could be best.
- 4.5 x 9 ft. – is what the professionals use
Though generally, 8 ft. tables are considered professional tables too, this third kind of billiard table is often used at tournaments and official sports events. It’s often pricey and covers a playing area of 50” x 100”. This big of a table ideally should be in a room with dimensions, 12’6″ x 16’6″ where 48″ cue is used.
IN CHOOSING THE KIND OF BILLIARD TABLE…
… consider the cue sticks you will use. There are 48″, 52″ and 58″.
… consider your intention. Do you want to go pro? Or you want it to be just for social get-togethers or game nights?
… consider pool lights.
… consider the area you’ve allotted for pacing around the table while strategizing a shot. Practice your stance when making one and the dips you need in getting tools like the balls, the special cues and many more.