Billiards TablesBilliard tables (also known as pool tables) are a great source of entertainment for people across the nation of America and other nations as well. In the 16th and 17th century, the coined term for pool tables was billiard tables. This popular term is still used frequently today, but most people know these tables simply as “pool tables.”
Dimensions of Billiard TablesIf you’re looking for a table that can come in all shapes and sizes then the billiard table can really fit the bill. The billiard table, traditionally refereed too as the pool table, is frequently (and most commonly) used to play all different types of sports. That’s why different dimensions of billiard tables are so important; they differ based on what types of games are played. For the dimensions of a pool table, typical dimensions include 9 feet, 10 feet, and seven feet tables. They each vary by measurements, but range on a 2-1 scale. Owners can have any table that they would like, but there are only two billiard table sizes that are approved by the World Pool-Billiard Association. These sizes are eight feet (which would range from ninety-six inches by forty-six inches) with an allowed 1/8th inch room for error. There is also the nine foot table which is allowed, and that would be 100x50 inches. It also has a similar 1/8th inch allowance for error. When including your dimensions, think also about whether or not you would like your billiard tables to include pockets and what size bed you want. This does not mean the bed that you sleep upon but rather the bed of the table. Although personal dimensions can vary, the World Pool Billiard Association states that table beds must be no less than one inch thick. It also states that they must be made of slate. While individual players can have tables the length and dimensions that they want, those who play in games run by the World Pool-Billiard Association should strongly consider getting a table with the dimensions approved by the World Pool-Billiard association so that they have room to practice.
Types of Construction Used For Billiard TablesAny wood can be used for billiard table construction as long as the wood itself is sturdy. You want to make sure that the wood is able to support the whole weight of the table and will not collapse if someone leans on it. (When playing pool many people lean on the table, so you will need to make sure that the weight can support that as well.) The most frequently used wood for billiard tables is hardwood. It is heavier and better to use than softwoods and it is also sturdier. If you’re just starting out making your very first billiard table, use hardwood for the frame. You can also use plywood in the event that you have no hardwood. What color wood you use will depend not only on what type you use but also on what color theme you are going for. You’ll want the pieces of wood to look the same and be well-fashioned. For the billiard rails, you’ll also want to make sure they’re strong. You’ll also want to ensure that you have the proper cushion provided. The most commonly used cushions are the K55 cushions so if you are a beginner you will be sure to want to use something that is very popular. When making rails, keep in mind that your rail should be about 63 and ½ % of the ball’s diameter. There are also K66 profile rubber cushions that may work for those who do not like the K55 brand. Billiard cushions are a great way to protect your billiard table. Let’s get this straight – we aren’t talking about your typical, normal pillow that you would place on your bed. Billiard cushions are much different and much smaller. Billiard cushions are designed to protect your pool table. Beginners should purchase the K66 cushion as it is approved by the BCA. Most players do not buy billiard brackets as there are many custom made free brackets out there. That being said there are also dozens of places to purchase brackets as well.
Types of fabric usedMost billiard or pool tables typically use felt for their tables. All rails and slate beds are covered with about 21-24 ounces of what is known as billiard cloth. For those who need the project to be a little cheaper there are some 19 inch clothes available. Most cloth is readily made in the green cover. Apart from felt, cloth can also be made out of woven cloth or worsted wool.
Nails and Glue for billiard tablesFor those who are seeking to buy nails and glue for billiard tables they will soon find that they are in luck. There are many different websites that you can buy nails and glue for billiard tables. You can find them used (although this is not recommended). Although most parts of billiard tables are fine to buy used, most billiard table experts strongly recommend buying the nails and the glue used. That way you can have the highest quality product that has only been used once. The problem with using used nails is that you do not know how long they have been used and they are not the highest quality. Generally, what nails you use don’t really matter as long as they are high quality. You cannot use regular glue for the billiard table, however. You should use strong-quality billiard table glue. The glues are quite commonly produced and they are not very expensive, and they will make your table much, much more solid for construction. You’ll also want to make sure you have the adequate billiard table glue for the cloth that you are going to use, as well.
Billiard Tables – Pool SlateOne of the most important things to pay attention too when building a billiard table is a pool slate – it will be used on the top of the billiard table. The billiard table slate is where all of your games will be played so you’ll need to make sure that it is quite a durable slate. You’ll also want the slate to be smooth so that you have no glitches as your pool balls slide right across the carpet. What is slate? When most people think about slates, they think about what children used to learn in school 200 years ago. However, slate is much more advanced than that. Slate is simply a bluish-gray rock that is split apart naturally, by cleaves. It is also composed of chlorite, along with the other two rocks that one should pay attention too, mica and quartz. You don’t want to go too cheaply on a pool slate, because you’ll want something that will last a long time. You’ll want something that will have a good, easy grasp. It might be interesting to watch your friends attempt to shoot pool on a crooked slate, but your billiard table slate should be smooth. Slate is very thick and can cost a lot to transport, but it is worth it. It’s up to you to determine how many slate pieces work on your table but you’ll want to remember that one or two work best. You’ll want something that’s heavy, durable, well made and high quality. Your slate will need to be carved differently where you want the pool balls to go, so keep that in mind too. The thickness of the slate should be moderate to high. You’ll want to make sure you can play the different games on the billiard tables clearly.
Installation of billiard tablesMany people offer free installation with a purchase of a pool table, however, that may mean that they charge extra for the pool table. The pool table may be slightly more costly that way, but it might save you a lot of time and hassle if you’re not quite as experienced in the area of installation. However, it is fairly easy to install a billiard table as long as you have the right directions. When picking a spot for your billiard table, you will want to make sure there is enough room for the table, enough room for people playing the game and enough room for spectators. You’ll want to make sure there’s room on both sides of the table, as often pool players wander around the different sides, trying to find the best place to shoot their pool ball. You can usually place the billiard table directly in the middle of a room, or, alternatively, behind the pool table. Putting the table together is what takes the most amount of work, but one can do most of that by themselves as long as they have a good direction book handy. It is recommended that you move your billiard table once and only once, when you go to place it in its proper location. All one has to do is move the billiard table to that location and make sure that it is sturdy. Good general rules for billiard tables:
Finally, the most important rule of any good billiard table: Enjoy your billiard table! |