1. Why Buy a Pool Table?

If you're in two minds about buying a table, or you're looking for positive arguments to win over a relative, housemate or partner, here are five very good reasons for considering a pool table purchase:

1. Having a pool table in the house will give you the perfect excuse for all the family to spend time together. Nowadays it's all too easy to end up with each member of the family in separate rooms involved in different activities, but with a pool table you can all get together and play together.
2. A pool table is a one-off expense which can be used over and over again. As activities and days out become more and more prohibitively expensive - especially when you have children - a pool table can be considered a good long-term investment which will provide hours of fun every week.
3. Children who become interested in playing pool will have a more active mind and body than their peers who simply sit in front of the TV, PC or games console. What's more, if your children are inside playing a game of pool, you know where they are and you know they're safe.
4. You can invite friends around to enjoy a game of pool as part of a day or evening social gathering. Everyone enjoys at least one game, no matter how skilled they are, and you'll quickly find that playing a community activity together breaks the ice and helps new guests to get to know your old friends.
5. Any space can be made into a space for a pool table. You can fit one in the garage, loft, dining room, children's playroom or a disused formal living room.

If you're looking for a fun activity for everyone - one which will keep your mind and body active without being prohibitively expensive or impractical - a pool table is a wise purchase, which will serve you well for many years if properly maintained.

2. What Kinds of Pool Table Are Available?

There are many kinds of pool table available, to meet the different needs of all kinds of players. The first subdivision comes in the choice between English and American pool; in the UK, English Pool Tables are the most common in both homes and public spaces, while in the US you're much more likely to find American Pool Tables.

With the addition of a hard top, both English and American tables can be used as a dining table in addition to a games table, making this a practical solution for many players. It's also possible to have either freeplay or coin-operated/card-operated tables, depending on whether you want to use your table for free or charge customers, employees etc. for a game.

It's even possible to install a pool table in an outdoor location. Outdoor pool tables are less common than indoor ones but if you're looking to add some fun to a garden, back yard or playground, fully weatherproof tables are available to suit your needs.

English Pool Tables

English Pool Tables are either 6ft or 7ft in size, which is the common size found in pubs and clubs around the UK. The balls are 2" in size, and on coin-operated pool tables the cue ball is 1 7/8". Red and yellow balls are the most commonly used, though many prefer the look of American-style spots and stripes. Because the balls are smaller in English pool than in American, the table pockets are correspondingly smaller. The style of the game also means that the "jaws" of the corner pockets are narrower, while the centre pockets are more open than American ones, which allows you to pot from a tighter angle.

American Pool Tables

American Pool Tables are generally larger, starting at 7ft and ranging up to 9.5ft. As mentioned above, the pockets are larger than in English pool, to accommodate the larger 2 ¼" balls. The corner pockets are wide and welcoming, making long shots along the cushions easier than on an English table. However, the centre pockets are not as open as on English tables; they have a "straight-cut" style, rather than opening at an angle. American pool tables also tend to have faster cloth fitted, making for a faster game. These subtle differences lead to a contrast in playing styles, making English pool a little slower and more thoughtful while American pool is faster and more exciting.

Pool Dining Tables

Pool Dining Tables - or pool diners, as they are also known - are hugely popular, especially for home use. These tables are designed so that you can put a matching hard top in place when you need to use the table for entertaining, working, eating or anything other than pool. The height of the table and depth of the body are designed so that you can sit at the table using any regular dining chairs and eat at a normal height. Then, when you want a game of pool, you can remove the top, store it away safely, and set up your game.

When you don't have enough rooms in your house to accommodate a regular pool table, a pool dining table is the ideal option. There are many designs now available to suit a range of interior décors, from traditional to contemporary, in many different finishes.

Commercial Pool Tables

If you run a commercial location or you're looking to charge people for using your pool table, Commercial Pool Tables are available in a variety of systems and styles. The first and most common type is the mechanical "straight six" coin handling system. This enables you to choose your price and which coins are to be accepted. The customer simply slots the coins in the tray and pushes the mechanism towards the pool table, which accepts the coins and releases the balls.

As a step up from the straight six, electronic coin-operated pool tables offer advanced coin handling, which can accept multiple denominations, as well as push-button operation. More advanced coin operation systems allow you to set charging by the hour and day, with the option to change automatically as required.

The most advanced commercial pool tables are now fitted with contactless payment options, in which a game is selected and paid for with a simple tap of a bank card or phone. Marrying this modern technology with the classic game of pool makes for convenient payment and ease of operation.

3. What Kind of Pool Table Suits My Location?

When considering which pool table suits your needs, the place where it will be installed is a primary consideration. A pool table can be used anywhere it fits (see below for more details on that), but the most common locations are at home, in commercial premises and in shared spaces.

Home Pool Tables

A home pool table can be a centrepiece for a room, an addition to a games room or a substitute for a dining table. It is therefore important to choose a table which matches the décor of your room and at the same time fulfils all of your criteria. Pool tables come in a dizzying array of styles and are available to complement modern homes as well as traditional, whether you're looking for an English or American table. Contemporary pool tables often have unusual angles and can be made with metal, glass, perspex or other unusual materials, while traditional pool tables are more likely to use wood exclusively and have more classic pool table shapes.

Choice of finish and cloth colour are particularly important, especially when combining pool and dining into a single table, and there is a great array of pool dining tables available. These can be made in a variety of finishes to match any dining area and other furniture.

Commercial Premises

In a commercial setting, décor is still important but you may first want to examine the features available on your choice of table. If you're charging money to play, the obvious first consideration is the coin mechanism: do you want a simple straight six or a contactless system? Next you can consider what style of cabinet you want - whether a traditional or modern look - as well as the finish you want. Some commercial premises such as pubs may even choose to install a pool dining table, to maximise the use of space.

Shared Spaces

In a shared space such as an office break room or a school or university common room, practical considerations are just as important as aesthetic, and so all of the above points apply. Deciding whether or not to charge money for play is probably the best place to start, and then move on to look at the shape and finish of the table.

In some cases pool tables are available with optional table tennis tops, which can be a great way to maximise use of space in a shared area. Adding table tennis tops to a pool table doubles its usefulness and can provide a change of pace from pool.

4. What Is the Difference Between English Pool and American Pool?

Aside from the physical differences described above, English pool and American pool tables are generally used for different games. English pool tables are generally used for 8-Ball, while American tables are used for 9-Ball.

8 Ball Pool

The object of the game is to win by being the first player to pot a group of colours in any order, in any pocket, and then pot the 8 Ball in any pocket. This is the type of game most commonly played in pubs around the UK. For a complete set of rules you can refer to our 8 Ball Pool Rules page, which covers the WBA Blackball rules (the most common form of 8-Ball in the UK), the WEPF World 8 Ball Association rules, the WPA Eight Ball rules and the Supreme Pool Rules.

9 Ball Pool

Nine balls are used for 9-Ball (hence the name); each has a different colour, and they are numbered 1 to 9. The balls are set up in a diamond formation - the 1 ball sits at the front of the rack, on the spot nearest the back cushion. The 9 ball is placed in the middle of the diamond, and the rest of the balls can be placed anywhere in the rack. The object of the game is to pot all nine balls in number order, lowest to highest, finishing with the 9 ball. Whoever pots the 9 ball is the winner. To see a complete set of rules please refer to our guide to 9 Ball Pool rules.

In simplified terms, 8-Ball is a slower, more thoughtful game, while 9-Ball is faster and more exciting and is played on bigger tables.

You can play both types on either type of table, but remember that you will need to have spots and stripes balls to play 9 Ball pool.

5. What Is the Difference Between Slate Bed and MDF Bed Pool Tables?

Slate Bed Tables

Slate bed pool tables have a playing surface made from slate, which is then covered in cloth. Most often the cloth is stuck to the surface of the slate, to ensure a consistent playing surface. The slate can vary in thickness from 19mm to 30mm. The thicker slate is used on larger and more expensive tables, and some larger tables will use two or even three pieces of slate. Slate bed pool tables are most commonly used in pubs, clubs and pool halls. A slate bed gives the best and truest playing surface, which will not deteriorate over time. If the cloth starts to wear or gets damaged you can just get a new one fitted.

MDF Bed Pool Tables

Wood bed pool tables have a playing surface made from MDF - a type of hardboard, which is made from wood fibres glued under heat and pressure. This makes the tables very cost effective to build and lighter to ship, carry and move after installation. The downside to an MDF pool table is that its response is not the same as you get on a slate bed table and that, over time, the MDF bed can begin to warp slightly, so the ball doesn't play true.

MDF pool tables come with the benefit of being cheaper and lighter than slate bed tables, but at the cost of longevity and play quality. They also do not fare well in humid environments, as this can cause swelling or warping of the wood.

6. How Much Space Do I Need for a Pool Table?

Pool tables come in a wide range of sizes, starting at 6 feet in length (around 1.8 metres) and ranging all the way up to 12 feet (3.6 metres), the same size as a snooker table. Most people will be looking to buy a table in the 6ft-9ft range, with 7ft and 8ft being the most common sizes.

The amount of space needed for cueing will depend not only on the size of your pool table, but also on the cues used for playing. Full size cues measure 57" (145cm), but 48" (122cm) and even 36" (92cm) can be used. The longer your cue, the more space you will need around the pool table to be able to cue properly. This means that you will need sufficient space between the edges of the table and the walls, but also that you will need to be wary of furniture in the room which might interfere with your stroke.

The minimum space we recommend, for a 6ft table with 36" cues, is a room 11'6" by 8'11" (or 350cm by 273cm). Any room smaller than this isn't really suitable for a game of pool. That doesn't mean that you absolutely can't put a table in a room which doesn't meet these measurements, but you will have to expect problems with cueing and your game just won't be as much fun as it could be. Of course, there is no maximum size for a room!

We have a complete pool table room sizes guide - our reference guide covers all sizes of table and cue so you can work out exactly what size table will suit your space.

7. How Much Does a Pool Table Cost?

The simple answer to this question is: as much as you want to spend. Pool tables start at surprisingly low prices for simpler tables and can range up to many thousands of pounds for luxury pool table models, so there's bound to be a table to suit your budget.

Affordable Tables

As mentioned above, wood bed pool tables are among the cheapest options available. Typically only wood bed tables will be priced below £500, and some may still cost more than that. However, slate bed pool tables can still be found for not much more than a good quality wood bed table, with all of the attendant advantages mentioned earlier. If you're looking for an affordable slate bed table then you can expect to be paying anything from £750 upwards. These tables are suited for players who just want an occasional game, but aren't looking for a top-quality piece of furniture or a professional standard of play.

Mid-Range Tables

Mid-range slate bed tables will cost from around £1,000 to £2,000, which will get you a more robust and aesthetically attractive table for your money. At this price the slate is usually supported by cross and centre beams, and the materials used for the entire table's construction will be of premium quality, as you would find in pubs and pool halls. Tables at this price level are of a commercial standard, well-finished, and are available in a wide range of finishes and cloth colours.

Professional/Luxury Tables

From around £2,000 to £2,500 and more, you can expect a very high quality of table. You will benefit from being able to customise many elements of the table's design including the type of wood finish, the type and colour of the cloth covering the table, and more. In addition, such tables offer much more durability and excellent playing conditions.

When it comes to deciding how much to spend, remember that as tables increase in price, the more solid their construction, and the better the game quality you can enjoy.

All of the above assumes that you're buying your pool table first-hand, which is always recommended. See below for more information on the problems with second-hand pool tables.

8. What Personalisation Options Are Available on a Pool Table?

There are almost limitless options when choosing your pool table, allowing you to customise it to get exactly the look, feel and play style you want.

Once you've chosen the model of table you want, the game you want to play (whether English or American pool), and the size of the table, your first customisation choice should be the finish of the table. Almost all tables will come in a choice of wood colours, which can be matched to your own décor and furniture. It is also common for tables to be available in black or white, which are easy to match to your own style.

Aside from these standard finishes, many tables can be made in a variety of varnishes, paints and veneers. Some manufacturers will make tables in any RAL colour, giving you a huge amount of choice if you're looking to make a statement with your table.

Once you've chosen a cabinet finish, the next step is to determine the cloth you want fitted to the slate. There are many types of cloth including Elite Pro, Smart, Simonis and more, which not only come in a large range of colours but also offer different play characteristics. If you're playing English pool you'll probably want a napped cloth, while American pool is usually played with faster, napless cloth.

If you're looking to personalise your cloth even further, you can choose a logo cloth with football club logos or company logos, or even have your own cloth designed and printed. With individual cloth printing the possibilities are literally endless; you can create your own geometric design, have a company logo printed on a cloth, or even use a photograph to make your table truly personal. Cloth printing will usually cost a little more than choosing a pre-determined cloth, but is well worth it for anyone looking to make their table truly their own.

On luxury tables with a dining top you'll often find a choice of tops are available. For example, these can be solid wood, painted or lacquered to match or complement your table finish, inlaid with glass panels, or more. If you're planning to use your table as a dining or work surface between games of pool, it's important to choose a dining top which will suit your needs and give you the right look.

In addition to all of the options already mentioned, there are always accessories to accompany your table, which will change its look. Please see our pool table accessory guide or read on below for a summary of what else you will need with your pool table.

9. Should I Buy My Table New or Second-Hand?

We almost always recommend that tables be bought new rather than second-hand. In some circumstances, such as when a table is intended for a situation where it is likely to suffer damage and no-one minds about the quality of play, a second-hand table may be suitable. However, this is almost always a false economy; second-hand tables may need to be re-clothed, the slate may be cracked or broken, and damage to the cabinet is likely if the table has not been professionally moved.

When you buy a brand new pool table, you can be assured of getting exactly what you pay for. A table with unused cloth will play smoothly and properly, the cabinet will be pristine, and you can be assured that the slate is in perfect condition which will give you the best and most predictable roll during play.

In addition, when you buy a table brand new, it will be delivered by trained, insured professionals, who will move the table without damage to the slate (one of the most common problems when tables are moved). You can even get your table installed (which may cost extra but is often included on luxury tables at no extra cost), which will see your table placed exactly where you want it, assembled, levelled, and all packaging removed and taken away. Assembling and installing a pool table can be very difficult if you don't know what you're doing, and any damage you cause to it may completely ruin your table. We always recommend that you pay to have installation completed by professionals so you can get it exactly right without having to lift a finger. See below for more on installation.

Finally, if anything does go wrong with your table, a brand new table will be covered by a warranty, while a second-hand table obviously comes with no such guarantee. No matter how careful you are, there's always the possibility of something being broken, damaged or mislaid during transit, so the reassurance of a warranty takes away that worry. On luxury pool tables over a certain value, we even offer a lifetime warranty - so you never have to worry about the unexpected.

10. What Can I Expect After Purchasing My Table?

After you complete your purchase - whether in person, by phone or on our award-winning website - you can expect the very best service from Home Leisure Direct.

Once your order is placed, you'll receive an email confirming your choice of pool table and options, and explaining what will happen next. We will work with you to arrange a convenient day for table delivery (and installation if applicable), and then all you need to do is sit back and wait.

When your table arrives, our team of highly-trained professionals will deliver the table to a room of your choice. By default this will be a ground floor room, but by arrangement we can deliver a table anywhere it will fit. We have installed pool tables on high floors of multi-storey buildings, in basements, on boats, and will happily take on any challenge. You may be asked to provide pictures and measurements before the table arrives so that we can be sure it will fit through any difficult gaps, so you should be aware of any difficulties that might arise from the shape of your property.

If you have chosen installation as well as delivery (or if installation is included at no extra cost, which is the case on many of our tables), the table will be unpacked and assembled. The slate will be fitted to the table, the cabinet will be fully constructed and the table will be levelled to ensure the best possible game. Once you're satisfied with the table's location and orientation, we'll take away all of the packaging and leave you to your first game on your brand new table.

If you're happy with the service we offer (and we're sure you will be), we'll ask you to leave a review for us online so that you can share your experience. If anything is not completely to your satisfaction, you can always contact us and we'll do what we can to resolve any issues.

11. How Is a Pool Table Installed?

Many people prefer to have the table installed for them, to save potential damage to their table, their property, and most importantly themselves. If you select this option then the table will be professionally handled by one of our fully insured specialist two man delivery teams. It will be placed in a ground floor room of your choice, and all packaging removed.

Our team will professionally level the table and show you how to do so yourself, as this is something you will need to do throughout the life of your pool table. They have years of experience, and will be able to answer any questions about the care and use of your table to ensure you get the very best from your new purchase. You will be left with a perfectly installed table, ready to play the first frame of many.

We use dedicated two man teams to complete all of our installations, so you don't have to lift a finger. We are fully insured, just in case any accidents happen. Our installation teams just install pool and snooker tables, nothing else. This shows in the high quality of the work we do. Your complete satisfaction is guaranteed.

Upstairs, downstairs, and other hard to reach locations:

It is also possible to deliver and install the table to a location with difficult access - loft conversions, basements, upstairs, downstairs, up and down steep slopes, etc. We are experts at installing tables where many other retailers would not dare to go. If you want to discuss your exact requirements you can always contact one of our sales team and get an idea of what will be involved in your installation.

12. What Else Do I Need with My Pool Table?

Now that you've chosen your perfect pool table and decided where to put it, there are a few things you'll need and a variety of things you may want to add.

The most obvious accessories you'll need for pool are cues and balls. Most tables come with a set of cues, though you may find you want to choose your own cues - especially if you're looking to improve your game. There are hundreds of pool and snooker cues available on the market so we advise finding one which suits your needs in terms of size, weight and style.

When it comes to choosing a set of balls, there are still a lot of options available to you. English Pool is played with reds and yellows, while American Pool is played with spots and stripes, so you'll need to choose based on whichever game you want to play. Of course, if you have a set of each, you can switch between games whenever you like. There are also blues and yellows, which are commonly used as an alternative to reds and yellows (particularly if playing on a red cloth, for example). We supply all of our tables with a set of balls to get you started, but if you're looking to practise at a higher level you may want to invest in a set of tournament-standard balls, such as Aramith.

To protect your pool table between games, a cover is a useful and inexpensive way to increase the lifespan of your table. Keeping dust and spills away from the cloth means you'll be able to play a better game every time, and the cabinet will also be protected from smaller knocks.

One issue which can arise from installing a pool table in your home is ensuring you have adequate lighting. The best lighting for a game of pool should be installed directly over the table, and cast a wide, even light to ensure minimal shadows and total illumination of the playing surface. A pool table light might seem an unnecessary addition for casual games at home, but if you're looking to get more serious about your game or even just looking to get the very best quality of game, a ceiling-mounted light can make all the difference.

Eventually, your cloth will start to wear out; this is inevitable with a cloth surface experiencing the friction of balls rolling across it many times. If you're unlucky or reckless you might even tear your cloth - all it takes is a single miscue from a particularly aggressive shot and you can easily damage it. Luckily, replacing a pool table cloth is a relatively simple affair for experts, though we wouldn't advise trying it yourself unless you have experience. Pool table cloths can be bought separately and installed onto an existing table, renewing your playing standard. A brand new cloth can completely rejuvenate an old table and give it years of extra use.

Finally, accessories for your cue will prove useful: a cue rack to store the cues between games, a rest (or a choice of rests for expert players), and tips and chalk to keep your cue at its best possible quality. Chalk is of course essential to ensure proper contact between the tip and the ball, and a replacement tip when an old one loses its shape can make a huge difference to the quality of your shot.