There are quite a number of different sizes and designs of pool tables in the world. In the sport of professional pool playing, the pool table of choice is the nine-foot long, six pocket tables found in serious pool halls across the United States. However, many pool tables found in homes and other gaming parlours are built of varying sizes in order to conform to the constraints of the room and other factors. Different designs of pool tables also exist for different games of pool altogether, such as bumper pool and carom billiard games.

The game of billiards dates back to the late sixteenth century when fans of outdoor sports such as croquet devised similar, smaller games to play indoors. These early versions of billiards were based upon pushing balls about a table with the ends of sticks. Later, players began to perfect their own pool cues in order to start shooting the balls about the billiard table. Various hazards such as holes and bumpers were added to the table in an effort to make the game more challenging, and the pockets of the modern pool table became incorporated into the most popular cue games.

There are few features of a pool table that are as important as the smooth felt surface that ensures unobstructed play. The all important fabric that covers the surface of the table is made of baize, a textile that is produced from woven wool. Pool tables that are designed for carom billiard games often have a special component that keeps the surface of the table slightly heated so that it remains completely dry during play.

By employing a few simple maintenance tips, a good pool table can easily last for generations to come. Many owners fail to realize the dangers of humidity to the life span of the table, and changes in room temperature will warp the frame over time.

Traditionally known as cue sports, there are actually quite a large number of variations that players might choose to play outside of the traditional game of eight-ball. Other common forms of billiards include nine-ball, bank pool, one-pocket and snooker.

In order for a six pocket pool table to be considered a regulation table, it must meet certain criteria for use in a professional game. If you are in the market for a top of the line pool table, be sure to shop for a table that is constructed with three separate slabs of slate to cut down on the accumulation moisture on the surface.

While a severely damaged pool table made need to be refinished by a professional furniture repair person, there are many pool table repair projects that any amateur craftsman should be able to accomplish. The most important parts to focus on are ensuring that the table is perfectly steady and universally level. In many cases, the fabric surface of the table may need to be replaced as well.

Matthew Kerridge is an avid pool fan and loves playing the sport. If you want more information about any type of pool table or are looking for a reputable pool table company please visit http://www.topofthecue.com