Are you looking to elevate your outdoor space and make it the ultimate gathering spot for family and friends? Imagine hosting a weekend barbecue with the added thrill of a friendly pool competition. If this sounds like a dream come true, then an outdoor pool table is just what you need.
Having an outdoor pool table isn’t just about bringing one of your favorite indoor games outside. It’s about enhancing your outdoor living space, extending your home’s usable square footage, and creating a unique entertainment area that everyone can enjoy. Plus, there’s something remarkably liberating about playing a game of pool under the open sky, wouldn’t you agree?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to select the perfect outdoor pool table for your home. From understanding the benefits of having one, to what you should consider when buying, and even a roundup of the top 5 tables in the market—this article is your one-stop-shop for all things related to outdoor pool tables.
Why an Outdoor Pool Table?
If you are wondering, “Why go for an outdoor pool table when I can simply have an indoor one?” Well, the idea is not just about playing pool; it’s about where you’re playing it. Here are some compelling reasons why an outdoor pool table could be the best investment you make for your home and social life.
Weather-Resistant Materials
One of the most attractive features of an outdoor pool table is its durability. These tables are built with weather-resistant materials such as marine-grade plywood, aluminum, and specialized outdoor cloths that withstand the elements. Whether it’s a scorching summer day or a light drizzle, your outdoor pool table is built to last, allowing you to enjoy a game in virtually any weather condition.
Space-Saving
Indoor spaces can get crowded, especially if you already have furniture or other recreational items like a ping pong table or a home gym. An outdoor pool table allows you to utilize your backyard or patio space effectively. Now, you can have more room indoors while also enriching your outdoor area.
Adds Fun and Functionality to Outdoor Spaces
An outdoor pool table instantly transforms any backyard or patio into a recreational haven. It’s not just a piece of furniture; it’s an entertainment hub where you can host parties, family get-togethers, or casual hangouts. Plus, a well-designed table’s aesthetics can enhance your outdoor space’s visual appeal.
Versatility
Outdoor pool tables offer incredible versatility. Many models can be converted into dining tables, or have added features like built-in lighting for nighttime play, or pockets that can be sealed to turn the table into a flat surface for other games or activities.
Social Benefits
Lastly, but certainly not least, is the social factor. An outdoor pool table creates a focal point for gatherings, encouraging social interaction in a fun and relaxed environment. Pool is a game that people of all ages can enjoy, making it a perfect addition to family homes.
If you’re looking to make your outdoor space a true extension of your home, adding an outdoor pool table could be the game-changer you’re looking for.
What to Consider When Buying an Outdoor Pool Table
Selecting the perfect outdoor pool table involves more than just picking the first attractive option you come across. When buying a new table, it is crucial to evaluate factors such as functionality, durability, and overall value in addition to aesthetics. Here’s a rundown of what you should keep in mind:
Size and Dimensions
Before you make any decisions, measure the space where you plan to place your table. Outdoor pool tables come in a range of sizes, commonly starting from 7-foot tables for casual play, up to 9-foot tables for professional-standard games. Remember, you’ll also need sufficient space around the table for cueing. Plan for at least 5 feet of extra space on all sides for optimal play.
Material
The material of your outdoor pool table is crucial for its durability and longevity. Opt for tables made from marine-grade plywood, aluminum, or other weather-resistant materials that won’t warp or deteriorate due to environmental conditions. Some tables even offer a combination of these materials for extra durability.
Price Range
Investing in an outdoor pool table can be a significant expense, with average prices over a thousand dollars. It may be tempting to choose a less expensive option, but it’s important to keep in mind that the quality of the product often corresponds with its price. A table of higher quality might cost more initially, but it will likely last longer than a cheaper one. Ultimately, investing in a durable table can save you money in the long run.
Safety Measures
Especially important for homes with children, safety measures like rounded corners, secure leveling systems, and sturdy construction can be invaluable. Make sure that your choice is as safe as it is fun.
By considering these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision when purchasing your outdoor pool table. Remember, this is an investment in not just a piece of furniture, but in endless hours of outdoor fun and socializing.
The Best Outdoor Pool Tables Reviewed
The Playcraft Santorini is an exceptional Slate Pool Table that epitomizes versatility and elegance in outdoor entertainment. Crafted with a heavy gauge aluminum unibody, this table boasts durability and stability, perfectly suited for outdoor conditions. Its modern Gray on Graphite colorway adds a contemporary touch, ensuring it will complement a range of outdoor decors.
What truly sets the Santorini apart is its multifunctionality. It’s not just a slate pool table; it transforms into a dining table and even a ping pong table, offering endless entertainment options. The inclusion of a dining top and two matching benches also adds a practical touch, allowing users to switch from gaming to dining effortlessly. The adjustable feet and K66 profile gum rubber cushions further enhance playability and convenience.
The table features a one-piece slate playfield, ensuring a smooth roll during a pool game. The weather and UV-resistant Cobalt Blue cloth covering the playfield adds an extra layer of durability, ensuring long-term use. The stainless steel assembly hardware is the cherry on top, giving users peace of mind about the table’s longevity.
| Specification & Features | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | The Table weighs 330 Lbs and has dimensions as follows: Length is 82 inches, Width is 46 inches, and Height is 31.25 inches. This compact size makes it suitable for a variety of outdoor spaces while ensuring it remains a substantial piece of entertainment equipment. |
| Material & Build | The table is crafted from heavy gauge aluminum with a unibody construction, making it both durable and stable. The one-piece slate playfield ensures a smooth roll for pool games. This slate is covered in a Cobalt Blue cloth that is weather and UV-resistant, enhancing the product’s longevity. |
| Accessories Included | The table is not just a standalone pool table; it comes with a range of accessories. These include a dining top, two matching benches, and a ping pong conversion set, as well as all the playing equipment you’d need for both pool and ping pong. |
| Stability | Stability is a key feature of this table, provided by its adjustable feet. These feet can be tailored to your specific outdoor surface to ensure the table remains level. K66 profile gum rubber cushions add to the table’s playability and in-game experience. |
| Assembly & Portability | The table comes with stainless steel assembly hardware, indicating a user-friendly assembly process. Despite its weight of 330 Lbs, the unibody construction likely contributes to a degree of portability, allowing you to move it as needed. |
| Design | The Santorini table features a Modern Gray on Graphite colorway, adding a sleek, contemporary aesthetic to any outdoor setting. Beyond its visual appeal, the table’s design focuses on multifunctionality. It serves as a pool table, a dining table, and a ping pong table, making it a versatile choice for outdoor entertainment. |
The Imperial 8-Foot Outdoor Pool Table is an excellent investment for anyone looking to bring the game of pool outdoors. One of its standout features is its construction quality—built with anodized aluminum rails, aluminum corners, and legs, the table is designed to withstand various weather conditions, making it durable and weather-resistant.
The waterproof Taclon cloth that covers the table bed ensures that the table stays in top condition even when exposed to moisture. Coupled with K66 cushion rubber, the table offers a true rebound, closely mimicking the experience of playing on a traditional indoor pool table.
Ease of assembly is another huge plus. The table comes mostly assembled; you only need to bolt on the legs and level it to the surface, making it convenient for those who are not so handy with tools.
| Specification & Features | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | The dimensions of the Table are 98 inches in length, 54 inches in width, and 32 inches in height. The table has a substantial weight of 340 pounds, adding to its stability and robustness. |
| Material & Build | The table is built with weather-resistant and rust-resistant materials, featuring anodized aluminum rails, aluminum corners, and legs. The bed of the table is made of a waterproof Pearl Board and is covered with waterproof Taclon cloth, enhancing its durability for outdoor use. |
| Accessories Included | The table is well-equipped with accessories, including 2 cues, a set of polyester balls that are designed to resist chipping and cracking, 2 pieces of chalk, a triangle, and a table cover. These accessories make it easy for you to start playing as soon as the table is set up. |
| Stability | The table’s aluminum construction, coupled with K66 cushion rubber, provides excellent stability and true rebound, making the playing experience closely resemble that of a traditional indoor pool table. |
| Assembly & Portability | Assembly is fairly straightforward, as the table comes mostly pre-assembled. Users only need to bolt on the legs and level the table to the surface. Given its substantial weight, the table is not designed for easy portability but rather for stable, long-term outdoor placement. |
| Design | The Table is available in a sophisticated Champagne color. The design is sleek and modern, featuring all-aluminum corners, legs, and rails that add to its aesthetic appeal while also enhancing its weather-resistant qualities. |
The Playcraft Extera 8-Foot Outdoor Pool Table is a game-changer for outdoor entertainment. Built with durability in mind, its extruded aluminum construction and anti-rust treatment make it a long-lasting investment. Its 1″ composite weatherproof playfield stands out, designed to withstand the elements and offer a consistent playing experience.
The table’s design is both modern and luxurious, featuring an eye-catching combination of aluminum and black components. Adding a pop of color, the electric blue, UV-resistant polytech billiard cloth not only looks great but is built to last.
Functionality is another strong point; large unified aluminum corner posts and top caps provide stability, while the K66 profile cushions offer a reliable bounce. Additional thoughtful features like a cover and tenting frame for water shedding indicate that Playcraft has really considered the outdoor conditions.
| Specification & Features | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | The Table has substantial dimensions, measuring 99 inches in length, 55 inches in width, and 31.5 inches in height. It is a hefty table, weighing in at 326 pounds, which adds to its stability and durability for outdoor use. |
| Material & Build | The table uses extruded aluminum for its 5-7/8-inch top rails, 5-1/2-inch aprons, legs, and square tubular beam sub-frame. These elements are treated with anti-rust coatings for long-lasting durability. The playfield is made of a 1-inch composite material that is weatherproof, ensuring the table can withstand the elements. |
| Accessories Included | The table comes with a complete set of playing equipment. This includes two 57-inch composite billiard cues, a set of 2.25-inch phenolic billiard balls, a 15-ball plastic triangle rack for setting up your games, a billiard cloth brush for maintenance, and two pieces of cue chalk. Moreover, a PVC cover and a tenting frame are included, making it easier to protect and maintain the table when it is not in use. |
| Stability | The table’s stability is enhanced by its large unified aluminum corner posts and top caps. Additionally, it features large tubular beam legs that are further supported by cross-truss bracing. This robust construction ensures a stable and reliable playing surface. |
| Design | The table boasts a sleek and modern design, featuring an eye-catching combination of aluminum and black components. It comes with electric blue UV-resistant polytech billiard cloth to add a splash of color and additional durability. This enhances the table’s aesthetic appeal, making it a luxurious addition to any outdoor setting. |
The Malibu Nights Outdoor Pool Table by Chamberlain Game Tables is a fantastic addition for anyone looking to extend their living space to the great outdoors. The table comes in an appealing white and blue color scheme, instantly elevating the aesthetics of any patio, yard, or poolside area. Built with durability in mind, the table is crafted from ADF Aluminum, a material known for its weather-resistant properties. This ensures that the table will hold up well against the elements, be it rain or sunshine.
One of the standout features of this table is its UV-resistant felt, which is a game-changer for those sunny summer days. Not only does it withstand harsh weather conditions, but the powder-coated rails and corners add an extra layer of durability, ensuring that the table maintains its pristine condition for years to come. It comes with all the accessories you need to get started, allowing you to dive right into the game as soon as the table is set up.
| Specification & Features | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | The Table offers generous playing dimensions of 84 inches in length, 48 inches in width, and a height of 31 inches. Despite its sizable surface area, it weighs a substantial 450 pounds, ensuring stability during play. |
| Material & Build | Crafted from ADF Aluminum, the table is designed to be weatherproof, allowing it to withstand varying environmental conditions. Additional durability is provided by the powder-coated rails and corners. The felt surface of the table is UV-resistant, allowing it to hold up well under direct sunlight, which is particularly useful for outdoor settings. |
| Accessories Included | The table comes as an all-inclusive package, which means you won’t have to worry about buying accessories separately. The package includes a protective outdoor cover, a rack for setting up your game, two billiard sticks, chalk for cue tips, and a complete set of balls. |
| Stability | Weighing in at 450 pounds, the table offers excellent stability, ensuring that it stays firmly in place during rigorous games. The robust construction and weight contribute to a stable and reliable playing surface. |
| Design | The design of the table is one of its most attractive features. Its white and blue color scheme is designed to complement outdoor settings beautifully. The glossy white finish adds an extra layer of aesthetic appeal, making it a stylish addition to any outdoor entertainment area. |
The Jiuxing Outdoor Pool Table is an excellent addition to any outdoor gaming space. Designed with an elegant white color, the table not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also packs a punch in terms of functionality and durability. Its aluminum frame and slate table top are built to withstand various weather conditions, thanks to their waterproof and corrosion-resistant properties.
What sets this table apart is the high-speed blue felt that enhances the gameplay experience. This, along with the top-quality K66 cushion rubber, ensures that the balls glide smoothly, allowing for a more professional gaming experience.
The manufacturers have also thoughtfully included a reinforced frame structure, guaranteeing not just stability but longevity, making this table a long-term investment. If you’re an enthusiast who enjoys snooker or billiards, this table offers an excellent blend of quality, durability, and sophistication.
| Specification & Features | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions & Weight | The Table has dimensions of 97.6 inches in length, 54.3 inches in width, and 32.28 inches in height. The table weighs a sturdy 771 pounds, highlighting its robust construction. |
| Material & Build | Constructed with an aluminum frame, the table is designed to be both waterproof and corrosion-resistant. The slate surface of the table is specifically designed to prevent corrosion, ensuring its longevity in all weather conditions. The aluminum frame comes with a powder coating, and the table also features top-quality K66 cushion rubber for an enhanced gaming experience. |
| Accessories Included | The table is sold as a complete package that includes a range of high-quality accessories for playing snooker and billiards. These accessories include two cue sticks, a set of 2.25-inch diameter balls, one triangle rack, two pieces of chalk, one brush for table maintenance, and a cover to protect the table when not in use. |
| Stability | The table offers excellent stability due to its reinforced frame structure, which is designed to withstand outdoor conditions. The robust weight of 771 pounds further ensures that the table stays stable during gameplay, providing a professional playing experience. |
| Assembly & Portability | One of the table’s key advantages is that it is easy to assemble, offering convenience to the users. However, given its weight and size, the table is not easily portable and is best suited for a dedicated outdoor space where it can stay set up for extended periods. |
| Design | In terms of design, the table sports a sophisticated white color with high-speed blue felt on the surface, combining aesthetics with functionality. The elegance of the design is matched by its high-grade materials and construction, making it a stylish yet practical choice for outdoor gaming. |
How to Maintain Your Outdoor Pool Table
So, you’ve invested in an outstanding outdoor pool table and are enjoying endless hours of fun and entertainment with family and friends. However, to ensure that the good times keep rolling, it’s essential to maintain your table properly. Here are some essential tips to keep your outdoor pool table in the best possible condition:
Cleaning
- Surface: Use a specialized pool table brush to remove chalk dust, debris, and other particles from the felt. Vacuuming is not recommended as it can stretch and wear out the material.
- Balls: Clean them with warm water and mild detergent, drying them thoroughly before use.
- Rails and Sides: Wipe down with a damp cloth, making sure not to soak the material. Use mild cleaning solutions if necessary.
Storage
- Winter Months: If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider moving the table into a garage or storage area. If that’s not possible, invest in a heavy-duty, weatherproof cover.
- Detachable Accessories: Store cues, balls, and other accessories indoors when not in use to extend their lifespan.
Periodic Checks
- Level: Use a carpenter’s level to ensure that the playing surface remains even. Most tables have adjustable feet for fine-tuning.
- Cloth: Inspect the cloth for wear and tear. Replacing it periodically ensures a smoother playing surface.
- Cushioning: Check the rubber cushioning on the rails; it can degrade over time and might need replacing.
Maintaining your outdoor pool table might seem like an additional task, but the rewards are well worth it. A well-cared-for table not only lasts longer but also offers a superior playing experience, ensuring that your investment continues to bring joy for years to come. Read our detailed maintenance guide here.
Conclusion
Investing in an outdoor pool table is about more than just buying a piece of recreational furniture—it’s about transforming your outdoor space into an exciting entertainment hub for family and friends. From the high-quality materials that ensure durability, to the multitude of games you can play, an outdoor pool table promises endless hours of fun and social engagement.
We’ve covered what you need to consider when buying your table, from size and material to price range and additional features. We’ve also touched on how to maintain your investment, ensuring its longevity and top-notch condition.
Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, a place where memories are created, and an outdoor pool table can be the centerpiece of those unforgettable moments. So, if you’re looking to elevate your outdoor gatherings and take your social events to the next level, an outdoor pool table might just be the game-changer you’re looking for.
Happy cueing!
