Cheap Pool Tables
Playing pool is one of the challenging activities that allow us to develop and use hand-eye coordination. It’s an interesting way to spend on a weekend or at night whilst relaxing after work. It’s great recreation and convenient to have in your home.
Having a pool table at home is a wise decision but buying a gaming table should not be taken lightly. There are important things that you need to consider especially if you are on a tight budget. Getting cheap pool tables can be more costly in the long term if you are not sure what to look for. To help you decide well, here are alternatives ways of buying cheap pool tables including their pros and cons below.
- Non-Slate Pool Table – This is more affordable than those with slate. Slate is the solid material underneath the felt or cloth that maintains the playing surface smooth and level. Slate increases the cost which is why there are variety of slate substitutes to lower the cost such as: Slatron, Permaslate, Honeycomb based on plastic, and MDF made of compressed wood particles. Each give a different quality of finish and some may deteriorate over time. It is better to ask for the type of material being used to get one that is best suited to your location and budget.
Pros: Affordable, lightweight, can be moved around
Cons: Prone to warp, nondurable, may not maintain flat surface for long - Buying second-hand can be cheaper than new. However, this is something you need to carefully consider, with wrong choice you can spend more or almost the same as new, instead of getting a cheap pool table, if you may need to repair or renovate the table. Buying a wooden pre-owned pool table may not be a good idea and should be done with care. Look for wear and tear on the playing surface, is it smooth and level, whether you will need to replace the pocket lining. Try to estimate how much it will cost to put the table into a good playing condition.
Pros: Affordable, can be of better quality
Cons: May be expensive to repair - However, there is a big difference if we are talking about second hand with slate bed. Slate is cut from solid rock of many minerals like quartz, clay and mica with fine grain. There is no warping here and it’s a lot easier to replace the cloth since it is designed to be replaced. If you’ll replace it on your own, it costs about £50 to £80 for a cloth kit that would cover the bed and the cushions. If you’re not willing to do the job, there are companies that offer affordable refurbished pool tables. They often change the pockets, felt and cushions making your installation look like brand new.
Pros: Durable, easy to replace the cloth
Cons: A bit pricey than above, heavy
Take time to check the whole structure whether it has a slate bed or not make sure it is well kept e.g. not stored in a damp garage, the frame is not damaged and the cushions are in good nick. Try out some pool tables that are on display for you to feel for yourself what the playing would be like.
After choosing a cheap quality pool table supplies to fully enjoy playing. You can easily find premium set of balls, care set and other supplies through online or on your nearest sports store. Happy playing.
