Your Billiard Room
Room size is a crucial factor in deciding which table will best suit your need.
| Table Size (Imperial) | Minimum Recommended Room Space (Imperial) | Table Size (Metric) | Minimum Recommended Room Space (Metric) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7′ x 3’6″ | 16′ x 12’6″ | 2133mm x 1066mm | 4.90m x 3.80m |
| 8′ x 4′ | 17′ x 13′ | 2438mm x 1219mm | 5.20m x 4.00m |
| 9′ x 4’6″ | 18′ x 14′ | 2743mm x 1371mm | 5.50m x 4.30m |
| 10′ x 5′ | 20′ x 15′ | 3048mm x 1524mm | 6.10m x 4.60m |
| 12′ x 6′ | 22′ x 16′ | 3657mm x 1828mm | 6.70m x 4.90m |
Space Requirements
Purchasing a Billiards or Pool Table is a significant decision. Few of us purchase more than one Table in a lifetime. Therefore, it is crucial that we choose a size of Table suitable for the available room space. It is also important to recognise that it is inappropriate to move a Table with a slate bed frequently. With this purchase you are committing the space on a semi-permanent basis.
We recommend that you give consideration to the Room Space Indicator provided. And, if you have concerns, perhaps with an irregularly shaped room, or with a room which you are planning with more than one purpose in mind, please feel welcome to discuss the issues with us.
Other Features of The Billiard Room
Purpose
When planning a Billiard Room define your primary purpose. This may range from promotion of active, family, leisure, at home or at a holiday house, a means of creating enjoyment with friends, a step to improve your game, or inclusion of a significant furniture piece in your home.
Establishing your primary purpose is helpful when considering the style of Table you might choose, but it may even influence your choice of Table size.
Natural Light
Consider natural light in the room space. Billiard cloth fades readily when exposed to direct sunlight, so if your space has large windows we strongly recommend use of a billiard table cover. If natural light is likely to produce substantial glare we advise protection by means of suitable blinds or curtains.
Provision of Lighting
Your plan should provide for adequate lighting above the Table. Players seek an even light, consistent throughout the surface area of the Table. If you are planning a dedicated Billiard Room you might consider a hooded light. Or if you are planning a multi-purpose room you may prefer a metal frame light with several metal or glass shades.
Storing Equipment
Cues and rests may be stored in a variety of ways. If space is minimal you may store them economically using a cue rack fitted to the Billiard Room wall. If you wish to avoid interfering with walls there are several types of cue stands available. Alternatively, in a multi-use space you may prefer to have cue racks out of view. Wall fitting racks may be attached to the inside of a suitable cupboard door. Similarly, scoring devices may be placed in a drawer or cupboard when not in use.
Room Character
In planning your Billiard Room you may choose from an almost unlimited number of styles. With a dedicated room it is best to select a common theme, for example, Traditional, Modern, Minimalist, Sports orientated, etc. You may have a hushed serious theme or a much more casual approach with other entertainment facilities. With a multi-purpose room the variety is endless. For ideas see some of the Great Australian Billiard Rooms, no doubt some of these will inspire creative thoughts!
The Table – What to Look for
When you decide to purchase a Billiard Table seek advice from friends who already have one or from someone who plays regularly. When doing your homework, if you find a Table without a brand name it is best to pass by. If you intend to purchase a second hand table check as to likely add on costs, including transport and installation
MAJOR AREAS OF CONCERN ARE:
SLATE
Is the table fitted with a slate bed, and if so, how well is the slate supported?
THE CUSHIONS
The performance of the cushions on a table is crucial, particularly the speed and angle of response. To minimise costs, many new tables are manufactured with poorly constructed (and therefore poorly performing) cushions. Pay close attention to the table cushions as replacement can cost hundreds of dollars.
The Cloth
The most highly regarded billiard cloths are manufactured in England and the best of these in the west of England. A true English billiard cloth is made from wool and has a directional nap on the surface. If you rub it lightly in one direction, it gives a smooth feeling to the hand. Rubbed in the opposite direction it has a rough, resistant feel. High quality billiard cloth is very fine and allows a ball in motion to roll with very little friction to arrest its travel. Replacement of inferior cloth with the high quality article costs hundreds of dollars.
The Pockets
The brackets holding the pockets should be made of metal – plastic or metalised plastic brackets tend to break. The pocket nets should be held in place using strong wire – use of staples for this purpose is inadequate. Brackets should be fitted with genuine hide leather to prevent damage to the balls.