Pool table manufacturers base their minimum room size recommendations on the size of the table, the anticipated use of a 58-inch pool cue, and at least an additional 6 inches of backward cue movement during play. Even if a homeowner must make do with a smaller room, there are some work-around options, such as the use of shorter cues measuring either 52 or 48 inches.
Recreational Playroom Dimensions
The playing area of a standard 8-foot table measures 44 by 88 inches. To ensure comfortable play, place this pool table in a room that measures at least 14 feet 4 inches by 18 feet 4 inches.
Manufacturers that sell 9-foot tables provide an active playing area that measures 50 by 100 inches. Put this type of table in a room that features a size of 14 feet 10 inches by 19 feet 4 inches.
A 12-foot table, such as the homeowner might use for snooker, features a surface of 70 by 140.5 inches. The minimum room dimensions to fit this type of table into a home should be 16 feet 6 inches by 22 feet 5 inches.
Onlooker Accommodations
Another reason for increasing the room size allotment is the addition of creature comforts, storage and player accommodations. For example, benches and tables make it possible for onlookers, guests and other players to wait during play. Extra area also allows the homeowner to serve beverages and refreshments. Storing pool cues in wall-mounted cabinets further encumbers the available space that surrounds the pool table and can therefore interfere with game play.
Manufacturers recommend that the homeowner center the pool table in the room in such a manner as to provide a 6-foot buffer between the outer rails and the furniture or walls. Keep in mind that the bench or sitting area must feature a depth of at least 2 feet 5 inches to allow for guests' outstretched feet. This foresight protects spectators from accidental contact with the cues and prevents players from stumbling over feet.
Tournament Room Requirements
Although tournament rules do not specify the room size--generally speaking, tournaments are held in larger stadiums--it is possible for the homeowner to take some clues from the rules when setting up an in-home billiard room. This holds true especially when the player attempts to prepare for professional or tournament play. The World Pool-Billiard Association sets the standards for championship play.
The player must use a table that provides an 8- or 9-foot playing surface. Cue sticks must measure at least 40 inches in length but weigh no more than 25 oz. Taking a page from the playbook of recreational players, this enables the player to use a shorter cue and make do with a room that measure only about 14 by 18 feet. What sets apart this setup from the billiard room that the homeowner prepares strictly for fun is the lighting rule. A fixture must hang no lower than 40 inches above the table bed.
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