If you have made the decision to get a pool table, it’s important to know that you will have enough space for it. Not only to fit the table itself, but to also play around it properly with ample cue space to take shots. This guide will explain everything you need to take into consideration when measuring up your space.
What You Will Need
There are two very basic things you will need to work out everything you need to know:
- A Tape measure
- Playfield dimensions for your given table (these can be found on every pool table product page)
- A calculator (or a good head mental maths)
That’s it!
Step 1: Measure your Room.
The first task is simple enough: measure your room! We recommend doing all measurements in centimetres as it allows for a more accurate measurement. Note down the length and width of the space of your room; these will be important later. You can ignore certain lower pieces of furniture like sofas and sideboards in your measurements for now (for reasons we’ll explain a little later).
Step 2: Do the maths
Once your room is measured up, you can then determine whether your table will be suitable for your space. To do this, some very basic addition needs to be done. You’ll be using two sums to decide whether you have sufficient space:
For reference on cue sizes,
- A full size 57 inch cue is 145cm
- A 48 inch cue is 122cm
- A 36 inch cue is 91cm
Why these measurements?
If you’re wondering why the size of cue and such is relevant, then the below graphic should explain.
Imagine a pool table in the centre of a room, and you’re presented with a shot where your cue ball starts resting against the cushion. If you were to play a shot from that position, would you have enough room for your cue, or would you find yourself with a wall or tall furniture in the way stopping you?
Compare your answers to your room measurements, will the table and cue space fit? If so, then excellent! You will have enough room not only for the table of your choice, but for space to cue around it.
If you’re looking short on space, try switching the cue length for a shorter cue and seeing if that makes a difference. Also take into account how you may cue in certain situations: Is the ball right up against the cushion? You may take the shot at an angle which could give you additional space.
What about furniture? Is there furniture in your room that you think may be getting in the way? Read on…
Step 3: Accounting for Furniture
If there is furniture in your space, then there are some allowances you can take into account. Let’s say for example you’ve measured your room, but also in that room is some furniture that infringes on your ‘cue envelope’ that would go around your table.
In cases like this, all is not lost! Take into account how high any furniture in the area is. Unless it’s a tall display cabinet or similar, there’s a good chance you will be able to cue over it. A sofa or a sideboard is a prime example of this. In cases like these, as long as you will have the space to walk around the table easily, you should still be able to play a good game. Check out the accompanying video at the top of the page to better see what we mean.
If you’re still unsure, our product pages offer several pointers to give you more information including a ‘will it fit’ guide on every product page, and our free and very easy to use Games Room Designer. Our team will be equally happy to help you with any questions you may have. Drop us a line on 0800 622 6464 or 01454 413 636 to ask us anything.
