So you have determined what size pool table you want. Next comes the initial research; this will be different for every person. We don’t all want the same thing. There are many different types, sizes, and styles of pool tables, not to mention brands. A very popular size is the 7ft pool table for sale, which is used extensively in pool parlors. Knowing the right size or brand can be incredibly confusing for the first or even third time pool table buyer. We will try to make it as easy to understand as possible.

Pool tables generally are made of wood, nuts, bolts, staples, glue, felt, screws, rubber and slate. This blog will take you deeper into the use and significance of the ‘slate’.

The Slate

The slate sits on the wood support or ‘frame’ and is leveled for play before attaching the cloth or felt. Generally the felt will be attached with staples to a piece of wood or MDF which is glued onto the back of the slate. This is referred to as “backed slate”. Slate is very important and besides the quality of the frame construction, it is like the backbone of the game.

The slate is very heavy and is actually rock; they mine it, cut it and home it flat at the manufacturer so it can be leveled to perfection. This helps the balls roll straight.

Note: If your installer is not experienced it does not matter how good your table is because they may not be able to level it.

Slate comes in 1 and 3 pieces most commonly

• 1 piece slates are generally made for commercial use like coin operated pool tables. It is not recommended for home use. 1 piece slate pool tables can be tipped up on edge on a dolly and rolled around for easy moving because they are designed for it.
• 3 piece slate pool tables are most desirable for the home or tournament play, they can be leveled more accurately with shims and other items used for leveling the pool table and they can be carried up stairs a lot easier than 1 piece slates weighing almost 400 pounds each. 3 piece slates, depending on thickness, weight less than one third of the 1 piece slates.

If you are in the market for affordable high quality pool tables, checkout So Cal Pool Tables range of pool tables, poker tables and accessories. We specialize in 7ft slate pool tables that are both of the highest quality standards and can be affordable by home and commercial users.