At Home Leisure Direct we offer the largest selection of slate bed pool tables in the country, with a vast range on display in our Bristol showrooms where you can try them for yourself. Slate bed tables are simply the best quality, and although the price is higher than that for wood bed tables, the difference in quality is often noticeable. However, we have a high-quality range of MDF bed pool tables that are more affordable and offer a comparable playing experience.
We stock a great selection of 6ft and 7ft slate bed pool table options in a variety of finishes. We source the very best slate pool tables from around the world to deliver the high quality you would expect. Many of our tables convert into Pool Dining tables, providing your home with a versatile space-saving table.
Slate Bed vs Wood Bed Pool Tables
When choosing to purchase a pool table there are many styles and finishes to choose from to find the perfect look for your space, but a lot of people forget how important the table underneath the cloth is. Many of our customers have asked what the differences are between each pool table bed, and which is the best choice for what they are looking for.
The options are either slate bed or wood bed tables. The 'bed' refers to the flat surface which is underneath the cloth and is very important for a consistent roll of the ball during play.
Each has different properties to suit various players and different environments. We've set out some key factors to help you decide which type of table is better for what you are looking for.
History of Pool Table Construction
The first pool tables were originally constructed from wood, including the bed of the table and the rails. In fact, the rails of the table were only added to stop the balls from falling off the table, not to make a shot. The rails started to be used to bounce the ball into a pocket much later on. Manufacturers then began to construct pool tables from different materials.
Around 1835 slate took the billiard world by storm. Manufacturers found if the table's bed was constructed by slate it was stronger, more durable, and lasted longer. Over time, wood beds became warped and didn't deliver the same quality. For a higher quality table, customers turned to slate bed tables, however, they came at a higher price tag.
Slate is mined from various places around the world, mostly Brazil, which is where we source our slate. The slate can come in a single piece which has been cut and polished to the ideal size and thickness for a pool table, as well as being perfectly flat. In some cases the slate will come in two or three pieces due to the sheer size and weight of the slate, meaning it is easier to transport, however it must be skillfully put together to ensure optimum playing conditions.
Wood bed tables still have their place. Although there are many cheap, low quality wood bed tables out there that won't last long, there are also many well-made wood bed tables which are constructed by skilled craftsmen from top quality wood. These tables are brilliant for beginners and are perfect for environments where the tables needs to be moved to different places due to being much lighter in weight. They often cost up to 50% less than slate bed tables making them desirable for many customers.
Our Slate Bed Tables
Slate bed pool tables are one of our specialities at Home Leisure Direct, and we have a fantastic and varied range from which to choose. We have a wealth of experience in advising and assisting customers in their purchase of slate bed pool tables.
All of our slate bed pool tables have passed rigorous testing to ensure they match a high standard, so whether you buy a luxury pool table or a table from the more affordable end of the spectrum, you can be sure to get high quality slate which ensures a consistent roll.
Slate bed pool tables are perfect for pool leagues and commercial sites such as pubs and clubs, but we sell thousands of slate bed pool tables to home users every year as they are prized for their robust and durable playability.
Why buy a Slate Bed Pool Table?
- More durable and will last longer
- Used by professional players
- Slate is non-porous meaning it is not affected by moisture
Why buy a Wood Bed Pool Table?
- Perfect for beginners and those starting out in pool
- Lower cost prices
- A lighter profile makes them easier to relocate
We offer a range of different types of Slate Bed Pool Table:
English Pool Tables
American Pool Tables
Pool Dining Tables
Luxury Pool Tables
Outdoor Pool Tables
Coin-Operated Pool Tables
Signature Columbia Pool Dining Table
Slate Bed Pool Tables for Sale
All of our slate bed pool tables come complete with free delivery and free accessories, so you have all you need to get started once you recieve your table.
Visit our Pool Table Showroom to look at a superb collection of pool tables, try them out and get some first hand advice on the right one for you. Our friendly staff are always on-hand to point you in the right direction for your perfect pool table.
We carry all the top brands available in the market today. There is a thriving community of UK-based manufacturers which have been in the industry for years. We also sell slate bed pool tables from all around the world, coming from Spain, Italy and France.
Slate Bed Pool Tables for Sale include:
Aramith Fusion Pool Tables
Billards Montfort Pool Tables
Billards Plaisance Pool Tables
Brunswick Pool Tables
DPT Pool Tables
Longoni Pool Tables
Sam Pool Tables
Supreme Pool Tables
Many models, finishes, and brands are exclusive to Home Leisure Direct, and are therefore unavailable through any other retailer.
All of our slate bed pool tables come complete with free delivery and free accessories.
We have years of experience behind us and have travelled the world meeting with the leaders in this field. We are happy to discuss at length your requirements and make qualified recommendations. We consider ourselves to be the market leaders in the UK. Put us to the test and we are certain you will agree.
DPT Fusion Pool Dining Table
Award Winning Advice
We understand with busy schedules, family life and work commitments not everyone can visit our showrooms. Buying a pool table is generally something you will only do once in your life, so its important to make the right choice. We understand this completely. If you are unsure about cloth colours or wood finishes we can send you samples out free of charge to help you make that decision stress free.
If you are concerned about your space, size of the table or whether or not a table will fit in your space, then you can either download any of our “will it fit” guides or call the team who will happily help you over the phone. We will never tell you an item will fit just to get a sale. You can trust us to offer you honest advice, all of the time, so no unwanted surprises come delivery day.
Showroom
Stressful city centre driving and expensive places to park are not part of the Home Leisure Direct experience. Instead we have three converted stone built barns, one of which was an old milking parlour, in the idyllic countryside where you will be greeted by a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team with free parking right outside the door.
We believe visiting us will be the most fun showroom visit you will ever have. Whether it be a pool table, a pool table that converts into a dining table or one of our other fantastic games room products, we look forward to welcoming you soon with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a truly enjoyable experience. Take our Showroom Tour to see what awaits you.
Useful Pool Table Resources:
To help you further when it comes to choosing your pool table and to better understand all the features and options available, these useful articles and videos will help you.
Pool Table Buying Advice - over 20 articles and videos, covering everything from the accessories that come with the tables, and which additional items you may need, to playing snooker on your pool table.
How to Play Pool - our expert professional players Gareth Potts (four time World 8 Ball Pool Champion) and Karl Boyes (four time Mosconi Cup Winner) explain how to play pool, from the basics right up to handling the most difficult shots and match tactics.
How to measure your space to fit a pool table - one of the questions we are most often asked is "will the pool table fit into the room?"; in this video we explain how to measure everything properly and make sure you have enough room to cue.
Games Room Designer - this powerful browser-based app is free for you to use to design your floor plan and where to situate all the items in your games room - in fact in any room of your house. It's a breeze to use, and you can save your work, print it out and share it with others by email.
Have Serious Fun choosing your new pool table.
Of course, if you need any help please call us on 01454 413636 or 0800 622 6464, or you can email us [email protected], or why not visit our amazing showrooms - here's How to Find Us.
