There are quite a number of different sizes and

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.

Of all of the features to take into consideration when purchasing or maintaining a pool table, none are quite as important as ensuring that the felt surface is absolutely flawless. Despite the popular nomenclature, the fabric surface of a pool table is not 'felt' but a manufactured woollen textile known as baize. Because even the slightest amount of surface moisture can affect the game, some pool tables are designed to provide constant warmth to the surface of the pool table and keep it completely dry.

A solid pool table can easily last for many generations so long as it is properly cared for. Much like a musical instrument, changes in humidity and temperature greatly increase the chance of warping a pool table in ways that can be fairly difficult to repair. Other damages come from simple thoughtlessness, such as setting a sweating beverage upon the fabric of the table.

While the most popular form of pool is the game of eight-ball, there are many other fun billiard games that you can play with a regulation pool table. Snooker is fairly popular in parts of Europe, while other common games include nine-ball, one-pocket and bank pool.

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.

One interesting project for the home hobbyist is purchasing a cheap, used pool table and restoring it to perfect condition. While much of the work of restoring an old pool table is involved with refinishing cosmetic flaws, the two primary steps of pool table repair are making sure that the table is absolutely level and steady and replacing the fabric surface of the table if necessary. Both of these items take a little bit of planning, but they are nothing that any home craftsman can't take on.

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 searching for a trusted pool table company please visit http://www.topofthecue.com