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How Much Room Do You Need for a Pool Table?


A pool table can make a great addition to any home, but these fun accessories can also take up a lot of real estate. Ensuring that you have the space needed for pool table games is paramount. It’s also important to choose the right size table for the room you’ll be putting it in.

The amount of room you need for a pool table depends on many factors. One rule of thumb states that a table should be at least five feet from a wall, but that doesn’t always need to be the case. 

Just how much room do you need for a pool table?

Pool Table Sizes

Pool tables come in three standard sizes: 

7’ long x 3.5’ wide 
8’ long x 4’ wide
9’ long x 4.5’ wide
Following the five-foot rule, 7-foot tables need no less than 13 feet by 16 feet; 8-foot tables need at least 13.6 feet by 17 feet; and 9-foot tables need at least 14 feet by 18 feet.

Cue Length

A standard regulation pool cue is 57–58 inches long. However, you may need more space around the table if you or another frequent player prefers to use a longer cue. Likewise, if you or another player uses shorter cues, you might be able to get away with situating your table in a smaller space.

Personal Preferences

Ultimately, it’s up to the owner to decide how much space for pool tables they need. 

Consider how you will be using the table. For example, will you be taking part in serious games or tournaments? If so, you’ll want a larger space to make sure you can play comfortably. If, on the other hand, you’ll only be using your new pool table for casual games, you can get by with a smaller area.

Other Considerations to Determine How Much Room You Need for a Pool Table

Here are a few more things to consider before making a final selection on a pool table. 

The Number of People Playing

Some billiard players prefer to have ample space around the table for everyone to move around freely, while others are fine playing with less space.

Consider the number of people who will likely be playing at any given time. If you’ll be shooting against several other people fairly often, you’ll probably want a few more feet.

The Measurements of the Room

Above all else, you must be certain of the exact dimensions of your room. If you’re working with a cramped space, you likely won’t be able to fit a larger table in it.

Furniture and Other Items

Consider the other furniture you have in the room as well. If you have tables, chairs, sofas, or other large pieces around the place, you may need to move some of them to make room for your new pool table.

Traffic Flow

The same holds true for the flow of traffic through the room. If the room is used for other activities like dining or entertaining, you’ll need to consider how the pool table will affect you and your guests’ movement.

Tips for Deciding the Right Room Size for Pool Tables

The amount of space needed for pool tables will often differ by setting. That said, the following tips can help you decide how much space you need.

Do a Mock-Up

Before you commit to buying a particular table, mock up the space needed for pool table games at the spot in the room where you plan on putting the table. This is a great tactic to help people visualize how much space for pool tables they need.

First, measure the room you want to put the table in. More specifically, you’ll want to measure the length, width, and height. Refer to the exact dimensions of the billiard table you want to buy. Then, mark off the space on the floor using masking tape or chalk.

Lastly, stand in the middle of the marked area and make a few pretend practice shots, ideally with an actual cue. Doing so will help you get a feel for your floor space and how you’ll feel while you’re actually playing.

Add on a Couple Extra Feet

Once you have a solid idea of how much square footage you need, it’s a good idea to add about two extra feet on all sides of the table. This will ensure that you, the other players, and your spectators can move around comfortably. 

It’s also wise to have a fellow player come over and give you their opinion on the situation. They may be able to offer some helpful insight into how to make the most of your space.

Consult the Pros and Shop for a New Table

If you’re still unsure whether you have enough space for pool tables or just want a second opinion on your mock-up, you can always reach out to a pro. They can help you measure the room size for pool tables and choose an appropriately sized table.

Once you decide on the best pool table for your space, shop online with Billiard Factory. We have hundreds of high-quality tables available in a wide range of colors, styles, and price ranges. We also offer billiard table services from assembly to repair to relocation.

Get started shopping for the perfect pool table with Billiard Factory now!

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