A pool table can be a fun addition to your home, allowing you to play with your family and friends whenever you like. To set up the pool table in the best way, you need to know the requirements for the ideal room size for your pool table.
The room size you need for a pool table depends on its dimensions. A standard size table (9 feet) requires a room size of 14′-10″ x 19′-0″ or 4.52m x 5.79m. A bumper pool table (30 x 46 inches) requires a room size of 12′ x 13′-8″ for a standard 57″ cue and 11′-0″ x 12′-3″ for a 48″ cue.
Read on to learn more about the requirements for room size for pool tables, cueing space, typical dimensions of pool tables, the distance of the pool table from the wall, the height between them, and the lights.
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Room Size Requirements for Pool Tables
Pool tables come in various sizes, and you should be able to find a table that fits perfectly in your home. How much space do you need in a room to set up a pool table, and what additional factors should you consider? You need ample space of at least several feet on both sides of your pool table. This will provide enough space for your shots.
You need enough space for your pool table to function, as the tables can be quite large. You need to understand the dimensions of the pool table and the pool cue to know the exact room size requirements. Plan where you want to set up your room table. You can mark the floor to determine the space you need on both sides of the pool table.
For example, if you have a 9-foot pool table with a playing surface of 100″ x 50″, the minimum room size for a 58″ cue is 18′-0″ x 13′-10″ and a room size of 17′-0″ x 12′-10″ for a 52″ pool cue. An 88″ x 44″ pool table requires a room size of 17′-0″ x 13′-4″ for a 58″ cue and a room size of 16′-0″ x 12′-4″ for a 52″ pool cue.
For a playing surface of 78″ x 39″, the minimum room size is 16′-2″ x 12′-11″ for a 58″ cue and 15′-2″ x 11′-11″ for a 52″ cue.
Here is a video that will help you determine the right room size for your pool table:
Cueing Space
A pool table should have enough space around it for a player to line up a shot from any side or angle, preferably with a 57″ cue. It is advisable to have a cueing space of 5′-0″ around the playing surface of the pool table. This way, players can use the 57-inch cue without hitting the walls.
When determining the ideal room size requirements, you should not focus too much on the pool table itself but on the pool cues around the table. How close the grip of the cue is to the wall will determine the fun factor for the players participating in a game of pool. Typical two-piece cues measure 58 inches in length. A generous room size is the length of your pool table plus twice the cue length.
The ideal dimensions for the room size vary depending on the cue size. For example, the ideal room dimensions when using a standard 58″ two-piece cue are not the same as when using a shorter cue. You will need a smaller room size while using a shorter cue. However, even the shortest cue is not smaller than 48″.
Typical Dimensions of Pool Tables
There are several standard dimensions of pool tables:
- British 6′-0″ pool tables are typical for homes, clubs, and pubs.
- British 7′-0″ pool tables are full-size and tables with eight balls are common in tournaments and leagues.
- American 7′-0″ pool tables are the smallest American pool tables but larger than the British 7′-0″ pool tables.
- American 8′-0″ pool tables are medium-sized American pool tables that are common in the UK.
- The large American pool table, commonly known as a standard pool table, measures 9′-0″.
When determining the ideal room size, you should consider the measurements of your pool table. You should also consider the length of the pool cue and the width of the playing surface from the edges of the cushion.
How Far a Pool Table Should Be from the Wall
The distance between the pool table and the wall is important as players need to move around and adjust their position frequently during gameplay. Players also need additional space as they have to extend the pool cue backward while making a shot. To determine the correct distance, consider the cue length and the farthest distance. The cue needs to go back when a player needs to make a shot while the ball is against the rail.
Players will make most shots when the ball is not against the wall, and you likely won’t need too much space between the pool table and the wall. However, you should have a minimum clearance of 4′-6″ around all sides of the pool table. If space is a concern, you can adjust by using a shorter 52″ cue.
It would be ideal to set up your pool table in areas with larger spaces such as the basement. Even if there is an obstacle in these areas, the obstacle can be easily bypassed. For example, you can set up a pool table in the basement even if there is a pole present. The likelihood of colliding with just one obstacle is low and can be overlooked.
Height between Your Pool Table and the Ceiling/Lights
When determining the ideal room size, it is important to consider the distance between your pool table and the ceiling or lighting fixtures. You may plan to install special pool table lights above your pool unit, and you need to ensure you have enough space. Pool table lighting will come in handy to enhance the gaming experience. Placing the light directly above the table will allow players to shoot from all angles without shadows.
The purpose of pool table lighting is to illuminate the playing surface of the pool table and not the entire room. Guidelines recommend a distance of 62-66 inches between the light and the floor and 32-36 inches from the pool table. The canopy of the light should be approximately at eye level of an average player. You should position the pool table lighting in the center of the table to ensure adequate illumination.
Bumper Pool Tables
Bumper pool tables are small but offer the competitiveness and excitement of full-size pool tables. The great thing about a bumper pool table is that it provides the same thrill as standard pool tables but in a much smaller space. A standard pool table requires a room size of 14′-10″ x 19′-0″ or 4.52m x 5.79m. A bumper pool table requires a much smaller room size of 12′-5″ x 13′-8″ for a 52″ cue.
Bumper pool tables are a perfect option for you if you’ve always wanted a pool table in your home but don’t want to reserve an entire room. The cues are smaller for bumper pool tables and you don’t need much space to play comfortably. Due to their smaller room size requirements, bumper pool tables are the ideal pool tables for modern apartments.
Final Thoughts
The space you need for your pool table varies depending on the pool table dimensions and the length of your cue. You should also consider whether you would place other furniture in the same room as the pool table.
Furniture higher than your hips may interfere with your cue. Lower furniture pieces do not affect your gaming experience but still take up space, so you need to take this into consideration as well.