What should I pay attention to?
Because I often get the question from people what they should pay attention to when buying a (second-hand) billiard, pool or snooker table, I have compiled this document where I list the most important things. If you still have questions when you go to look at a table, you can always contact me.
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The table top
The table top is the most important factor when choosing a billiard table, replacing a bad table top with a second-hand table costs more than the purchase of the table itself.
Slate or mdf
The first thing to pay attention to is what material the table top is made of. A good play top is made of slate and with some (usually older) models this can also be a different type of hard stone, which is also perfectly fine.
If the top is made of mdf or another type of wood board, it is not interesting to buy it 2nd hand because the new price is already very low and there is a very good chance that the top is no longer perfectly straight because wood is much easier to sag due to changes in the ambient humidity and warping due to the tension of the cloth. Even with a new table, you should consider the difference between MDF and stone. the problem with mdf is that it doesn't extinguish vibrations due to the material as well as the low weight, which affects the game very much and the table is only suitable for pure entertainment and not for the more serious players.
Thickness of the slate
The 2nd factor with a playing surface is the thickness.
With pool billiards, the thickness for a café model with a tray underneath is around 2 cm, with the competition models the stone is 2.5 cm or even thicker. In snooker, the slate is at least 4 cm thick. Golf billiards can have a top of 2cm or of 4 to 5cm, in the first case you also have to pay attention to the size because these tables are not always the competition size, which makes them less suitable for practice when you play in a club. In addition, the thinner slates are also more sensitive to vibrations, but in contrast to the heavier models, they can be easily moved. With caroms, the slate is always at least 4 cm thick, with the exception of the mini tables for corner training, which usually have a thinner slate.
1 or more stones
One of the biggest points of discussion is the number of slates that make up the blade. 1 part is better on the one hand because there can be no difference in slope due to poor adjustment of the parts exceptionally, but has the downside that a large blade can more and more easily deal with sag in the middle under its own weight and at larger tables they become unmanageable for moving.
The best rule of thumb:
- for café models with 2cm stone: 1 stone
- 9 foot pool, 8 foot competition pool or snooker: 3 parts
- 12 feet snooker: 5 parts
- Bumper pool: 1 part
- Carom: 3 parts
Cloth
Especially when buying a new table or a second-hand table with new cloth from a dealer, it is important that you inquire which cloth they use. Unfortunately, more and more sellers are putting very low quality and very poor structure cloths on their tables in order to make the price more attractive. Below is a list of the most common better cloth. Of course there are a few other options, but with these choices you can be sure of a good cloth.
- Pool and older Golf Billiards: Simonis 760 of 860, Gorina Granito Tournament 2000
- Snooker: Strachan West of England 6811
- Carambole and Bumper Pool: Simonis 300 Rapide, Gorina Granito M
When buying a second-hand table with a multi-piece top, it is only possible to refit the old cloth with a snooker table, with pool and carom the cloth should always be replaced, even if it is not old yet.
Cushions
The cusions are also a factor to look out for, they can be worn out with age, causing the rubber to harden or even crumble. This problem can be solved and certainly not a reason not to buy an otherwise in order table, it is only important to keep this extra cost in mind when purchasing.
the furniture
This is obvious, but should also be mentioned to complete the list. Check the table for woodworm and warped parts of the base.
In the case of a snooker table it is normal for there to be beer tags under some of the legs, this is not an indication that there is anything wrong with the furniture. Most other tables have adjustable feet and padding could suggest that a leg is broken or missing.
Too good to be true!
There are some companies that offer new full-size (12-foot) snooker tables for 4000 euros or less, or promise a professional installation on any floor for under 300 euros. Stay away from these! These tables are of very poor quality and, in many cases, cannot be properly adjusted due to missing parts. The companies themselves often completely withdraw when asked for after-service or warranty.
Are you unsure about the quality of a table you have in mind? Feel free to contact me without any obligation. If I have encountered the table in question before, I will gladly provide you with honest advice.
Professional Installation of Your Webshop Purchase
Many online stores offer beautiful billiard, pool, and snooker tables, but do not always have the knowledge and experience to install them professionally. A correct installation is crucial for the optimal playing experience and lifespan of your table. Therefore, you can rely on GePe-Billiards for a professional installation of your new acquisition.
Whether you purchase your table directly from me or through a collaboration with one of the webshops we work with, I ensure that your table is perfectly installed. Even if you have already bought a table and want it to be professionally installed, I am here for you. With years of experience and expertise from multiple generations, I guarantee an installation that meets the highest standards, so you can enjoy your game without any worries.
Contact GePe Billiards for more information about our installation services and have your table installed by the expert. Your satisfaction and the quality of your playing experience are our top priorities.