Pool tables can be made out of different materials- one of the most popular materials is slate. However, there are also wood pool tables. Slate is a more expensive material, but it provides a better playing surface. So how can you determine whether a pool table is slate or wood? This blog post will discuss the differences between slate and wood pool tables and how to tell which type of table you are looking at.
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Slate Vs Wood: What’s The Difference?
As we mentioned, pool tables can be made out of either slate or wood. Both materials have their own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the key differences between slate and wood pool tables:
-Slate is a natural stone, while wood is a man-made material.
-It is much heavier than wood, making it more difficult to move around.
-Slate provides a smoother, more consistent playing surface than wood.
-Wood is less expensive than slate.
So, how can you tell whether a pool table is made out of slate or wood? There are a few key things to look for. Let’s find out!
How To Determine If A Pool Table Is Slate Or Wood
There are a few key ways you can tell the contrast between the two tables. Here are ten of the most important ways to differentiate between the two:
Weight
First and foremost, slate is much heavier than wood. If you try to pick up one end of a slate pool table, you’ll definitely feel the difference in weight. This is because slate is a natural stone, and therefore, much heavier than wood.
Wood is much lighter than slate, so if you try to pick up a wood pool table, it’ll be significantly easier than picking up a slate one.
Construction
Slate pool tables are made of three pieces of slate that are fit together with a very tight seam in the middle. You should never be able to see the seam on a well-made slate pool table. Wood pool tables are made out of, you guessed it, wood.
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They usually have a plywood base with a hardwood frame and rails. The playing surface is covered with felt. Some wood pool tables have a slate playing surface but will never be as level as a slate pool table.
Size
Slate pool tables are much heavier than wood. This is because slate is a natural stone, and is, therefore, denser than wood. You can usually feel the difference in weight when you pick up each type of table.
Wooden pool tables are typically made of MDF (medium-density fiberboard), which is a man-made material. MDF is much lighter than slate, so you can usually tell the difference by picking up each type of table.
Slate pool tables are also larger than wooden pool tables. This is because slate is a natural stone that comes in large slabs. Wooden pool tables are typically made of smaller pieces of wood that are glued together.
It’s usually possible to distinguish between slate and wood by looking at the size of each type of table. Slate tablets are typically larger and heavier than wood tables.
Sound
Slate pool tables make a different sound than wooden pool tables when the balls hit the surface. The sound is more of a dull thud with slate, while wooden tables make more of a sharp ping noise.
This can be tricky if you’re trying to figure out what type of table you have by sound alone, as the cue ball can also affect the noise. However, if you hit the side of the table with your hand, you should be able to tell which type of table you have.
Portability
If you own a pool table, you know that it is not easy to move. A slate pool table can weigh up to 1000 pounds. That is why it is important to know whether a pool table is a slate or wood. If you are planning on moving your pool table, then you will need at least two people and a lot of time to do it correctly. A wood pool table will be much lighter than a slate pool table.
You can usually tell the difference by looking at the side of the pool table. If you see that the side is bowed in, then chances are that it is a slate pool table. This happens because of the weight of the slate. A wood pool table will not have this problem because they are not as heavy.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, slate is the way to go. It is nearly indestructible, so you won’t have to worry about replacing it anytime soon. Wood is much more delicate and will require replacement every few years.
For instance, if you have a family with small children, it is probably best to go with slate. It can take the abuse that kids are known for! Wood is much more prone to scratches and other damage that can be caused by kids running around or playing on the table.
Price
When it comes to price, slate is going to be the more expensive option. This is because slate is a natural stone that needs to be mined. Wood, on the other hand, is much more affordable since it’s a common building material. If you’re on a budget, wood may be your better option.
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In this way, slate is the more luxurious and expensive option, while wood is the more affordable and common choice.
Is a wooden or slate table better for your game?
Now that you know what slate and wood are, you may wonder which type of table is better for your game.
The answer to this question really depends on your personal preferences. Some people prefer the solid feel of a slate table, while others prefer the lighter weight of a wood table.
It really comes down to what you prefer and what you’re used to playing on. If you’ve always played on a wood table, then you may be more comfortable with that type of table.
However, slate may be the way to go if you’re looking for a change or want to try something new. Who knows, you may even find that you prefer playing on a slate table!
At the end of the day, it’s important to choose the type of table that you’re most comfortable with. After all, you’re the one who has to play on it! Hopefully, this article has helped you figure out what slate and wood are so that you can make the best decision.
Final Words
While there are many different factors to consider when choosing a pool table, hopefully, this article has helped shed some light on the differences between slate and wood tables. As you can see, each type of table has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to weigh all of these factors before deciding so that you can choose the right table for you. Thanks for reading!
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