If you own a pool table, you are probably not aware of the maintenance required to help protect and preserve the table and its accessories. You need to service your billiards table for a number of reasons, but the biggest reason it needs to be serviced is you, the owner. As the person who uses the pool table the most, you are aware of the wear and tear that can take place with each game played. If you are aware of the damage your pool table faces as time passes it is best to schedule your pool table to be serviced by a professional.

Everyday ways you can help extend the life of your billiards table:

Clean the Chalk

Chalk can be abrasive and ruin your table felt. To help rid your table of the chalk dust that will linger and build up after each and every game it is best to run a small handheld vacuum over your table to help remove the chalk dust. Be careful not to use a vacuum with powerful suction, as this can pull or stretch your felt. You can also you a hand brush to softly brush the chalk back and forth to help pull some of the dust out of the depths of the fabric. It is also important to clean the balls after each session to rid them of the chalk and dust that linger after each game. Microfiber cloths are best because they will not add a slick film to the balls.

Table Placement

Where you place your table in your home could age your pool table more than you realize. Did you know that the sunlight that peers through your windows will damage your cloth and possibly even the finish on the wood? Unless you are investing in windows that block these harmful rays it is best to place your pool table away from the sun to help protect it. Room temperature plays a big factor in the life of your table. It is recommended that whatever room you place your table in that it has humidity levels of 40 to 60 percent, and if you live in a dry climate you may want to buy a humidifier.

Table Movement

It should be common knowledge, but if you have kids around be sure to explain the importance of the no sitting, standing, leaning, bumping or rocking the pool table because of the stress it’ll cause on the legs and the rails. The number one enemy of any billiards table is movement! You shouldn’t move your billiards table unless you are contacting a professional to help assist in the move.

No Water & No Pets

Water can do a lot of damage to the wood and felt of your billiards table so it is important that you keep liquids and pets away from the table. Pets may look at your pool table as a great place to urinate so it’s best if you keep it in a room they are not allowed in. Moisture from shampooing carpets can also do quite a bit of damage to the wooden legs. It is suggested that you apply a fabric sealant to your felt to help protect it from the accidents that are bound to happen.

Protect the Finish

Whether you realize it or not your billiards table is a piece of furniture so it will need a little TLC. Therefore, you will need to protect the finish with lemon oil and a soft cloth. Beware that other product finishes like Pledge can eat into the wood finish due to the chemicals.

Contact a Professional

A year after purchase, it is suggested that you contact a billiards servicer to come out and inspect your table. The service staff can make sure that your table is still level, inspect rubber cushions, wear-and-tear on the felt, check for cracks, and ensure that the bolts are still tight. Professionals are available to assist you and make sure that you get the intended life out of your billiards table and answer any questions that you might have. It is also important that you contact a professional to move or relocate your pool table because it can be very tricky. Often the table will have to be broken completely down and reassembled. While it may sound easy, seaming the slate back together, refelting the table, and precision leveling after assembled is much better left to a pro. You do not want to pick up a table and move it whole without special equipment, as this may break the rails or legs. In order to protect your investment, it is always suggested that you contact a trained professional with years of experience to service your table. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to take all the necessary steps to ensure that your billiards table is taken care of properly. To extend the life of your billiards table and protect your investment it will involve some work on your part, but it’s ultimately worth it. If you are interested in learning more about how we can service your billiards table, be sure to give us a call at 419-221-3494 or stop by and see us at Eversole Pool & Spa!