Choosing a Pool Table for Professional Use
Any old billiards table might be enough for a fun round with friends, but it may fall short of what you need for serious gameplay. If you’re building a game room with competition-level expectations or furnishing a billiards venue, you need a table engineered for performance. Choosing a pool table for professional use involves considering factors such as slate thickness, cushion response, and frame integrity. Use this guide to explore what defines professional-grade tables.
Solid Construction
Professional pool tables start with superior construction. The frame must provide unwavering stability during intense gameplay. Tournament tables use kiln-dried hardwood frames with reinforced joints and cross-bracing systems. This construction prevents warping and maintains perfect level alignment over decades of use.
The cabinet work on professional tables should showcase exceptional craftsmanship. Precision-cut joints, hand-sanded surfaces, and multi-coat finishes create furniture-quality pieces that withstand daily use. These tables often weigh 700 to 1,000 pounds, with the mass contributing to stability and consistent ball response.
Slate Playing Surfaces
Professional tables exclusively use slate playing surfaces, typically consisting of three pieces of one-inch-thick Brazilian or Italian slate. The slate undergoes precision grinding and polishing to achieve perfectly flat surfaces within 0.005 inches. This level of precision ensures consistent ball roll and accurate rebounds.
Quality slate installation requires skilled technicians who level each piece individually and seal the seams with specialized compounds.
High-Quality Rails and Cushions
Professional-grade tables feature hardwood rails with rubber cushions. The cushions must provide consistent rebound characteristics across the entire table. Tournament specifications require cushions that return balls at specific angles and velocities.
The rail construction features precision-machined pockets made of leather or synthetic materials, which reduce ball impact and noise.
High-Performance Cloth
For serious players, worsted wool cloth is the industry standard. Unlike traditional woolen felt, worsted wool has a tighter weave that’s smoother, faster, and more responsive to spin. It resists pilling and delivers tournament-level performance that seasoned players expect. The investment in better cloth enhances gameplay and extends the life of the table.
Space Requirements
Professional tables are typically 9 feet long and require ample surrounding space. You’ll need about 14 feet by 18 feet to comfortably accommodate the table and allow full cue movement. Poor spacing can affect shots and frustrate players. Proper lighting is equally important. Install overhead fixtures that eliminate shadows and ensure players can see every spot on the table.
Choose a Trusted Brand
Among serious players and billiard halls, Olhausen pool tables stand out for their craftsmanship and reputation. Made in the USA, Olhausen tables use premium materials, including Accu-Fast cushions and precisely matched slate. Their commitment to durability and playability makes them a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts.
Elevate Your Game With the Right Table
When choosing a pool table for professional use, every detail counts, from slate thickness to the type of cloth. Atlantic Spas and Billiards carries high-end tables and offers expert advice to help you find the perfect fit for your space and playing style.
