The quest to find the perfect pool table can often be a daunting task. Whether you’re a casual player looking for some friendly competition or a serious enthusiast aiming to elevate your game, the best value for your money is paramount. But what exactly makes a great pool table? It needs to be long-lasting, resistant to warping, and cater to your personal preferences. One popular option you might be considering is a wood-bed pool table, specifically those made from MDF.
Are MDF Pool Tables Any Good? The Short Answer
MDF pool tables can be a fantastic choice for some players but may not suit everyone. They are particularly durable when kept in temperature-controlled environments to minimize exposure to humidity, which can cause warping. Being much more affordable and lighter than slate-bed pool tables, they are an ideal pick for budget-conscious individuals or those who might need to relocate the table at some point.
What’s Next? Considering the Nuances of MDF Pool Tables
While the short answer provides an overview of MDF pool tables, there are more intricate details and considerations that might not be on your radar. From the specific type of play they’re best suited for, to maintenance and customization options, these tables offer unique attributes that can greatly influence your final decision.
Read on as we dive deeper into the world of MDF pool tables, exploring aspects that may determine whether one is the perfect match for your game room or a choice to be avoided.
What is an MDF Bed Pool Table?
An MDF bed pool table, often referred to as an MDF pool table, usesMedium-Density Fiberboard as the playing surface. These small fibers are bound together with a resin and then compressed to make a flat and true surface.
Other pool tables, like those used in professional tournaments, use slate (a type of rock) as the playing surface. It can be hard to tell the difference between the two at a glance unless you know what you’re looking for. In a showroom or online, the best way to tell the difference between a slate and an MDF pool table is the price tag.
How Much Do MDF Pool Tables Cost?
One of the reasons pool tables are made with MDF is they’re much cheaper to make than slate tables. Thus, the savings are passed on to the consumer, making the price of an MDF bed significantly lower than a slate table.The average range for a quality MDF pool table is between $700 and $1500.
Youcan actually get an MDF pool table for around $500but it’s generally best to tack on a few hundred dollars and get something a little more sturdy. For this reason, MDF tables are great for those on a budget. They’re available in the same sizes as slate bed tables, and you can get several years of excellent play out of an MDF table when you take the proper precautions.
How Much Do MDF Pool Tables Weigh?
Weight is a significant concern for many potential buyers of pool tables. This section explores the weight of MDF pool tables and why it might matter to you.
MDF vs Slate: Weight Comparison
MDF pool tables are typically easier to move than slate tables due to the absence of the extra weight associated with slate rock. Most MDF pool tables weigh between 100 and 300 pounds, while larger, tournament-size tables can weigh around 500 pounds.
Materials and Ease of Movement
Some MDF tables are constructed with aluminum, hardened plastic, or plywood, making them lighter and easier to move. If relocating is in your near future, an MDF table might be a more practical choice.
Hiring Professional Help or DIY
Hiring professional pool table movers is an option for transporting heavier tables. Alternatively, gathering friends to assist can also be a solution. If moving isn’t a concern, you might prefer the investment in a slate table.
Can MDF Pool Tables Warp?
Warping Concerns
MDF tables can warp relatively easily, altering the dynamics of the game. While this may benefit the table owner, if a level playing surface is desired, it’s essential to understand the risks of warping.
Advantage of Slate Tables
Many people prefer slate tables as they are less prone to warping. They can sometimes crack or break, but it’s rare and often results from an accident during moving.
Proper Care to Avoid Warpage
With appropriate placement and care, it’s possible to minimize or even avoid warpage in MDF tables. Investing in maintenance and understanding the material’s nature will ensure a longer-lasting and more enjoyable gaming experience.
Best and Worst Places to Put an MDF Pool Table
The Common Query: Garage or Not?
“Is it okay to put a wood bed pool table in the garage?” This is one of the most frequent questions asked. The answer varies, depending on your location and how you’ve set up your garage.
Click here for our full guide on putting a pool table in your garage.
Dry Climate and Proper Setup
If you live in a dry climate like the southwest and your garage is equipped with AC and insulation, placing an MDF table there may be fine. However, it’s not without risks, even in the desert.
Why You Should Be Cautious
Rain and upticks in humidity can eventually lead to warping. Though it might not cause noticeable damage initially, the table can only resist warping for so long.
The Best Place for an MDF Table
A temperature-controlled room is the ideal location for a wood table. To protect it even further, keep drinks out of that room, as spilled liquids can cause quick warping.
The Worst Place: Avoid the Outdoors
The worst place to put a wood table is outside. Some MDF tables claim “weather resistance,” but the technology may not be reliable. Even a slate bed outside isn’t recommended, though it would last longer than an MDF bed when exposed to the elements.
Can You Replace an MDF Pool Table Top?
If you do wind up with a warped MDF pool table, you may just want to replace the warped piece under the felt. However, many MDF tables are not designed to be taken apart to have the playing surface replaced like slate tables are.
Most aren’t even designed to have the felt replaced.Those that do offer the option of replacing the MDF bed will often be cost-prohibitive. Meaning it will cost you almost as much as you paid for the table, if not more, to have someone remove the felt, replace the warped MDF bed, and then re-felt the table.
For this reason, people often just purchase a new pool table and use the old one as a storage area or send it to the dump.
How Long Do Wood Pool Tables Last?
How long a wood pool table lasts depends on how much it’s used and where it’s stored.A mid-range MDF pool table can easily last you 10 years when it is cared for properlyand stored in a climate-controlled room. Who plays on the table will also help determine its lifespan.
If you have kids, the table is bound to take a bit of a beating, which can reduce its lifespan significantly. Particularly if drinks or other liquids are spilled on it, and if it’s used as anything but a pool table.
In the end, an MDF pool table is like anything else. It will last a long time if it’s taken care of. But it’s hard to get a wood pool table to last nearly as long as a slate table, no matter how well you care for it.
Click Here to dive further into the details of how long MDF pool tables last.
Maintenance Tips for MDF Pool Tables
While MDF pool tables are generally more affordable than their slate counterparts, proper care and maintenance are key to ensuring they remain in good condition for as long as possible. Here are some expert tips to help you keep your MDF pool table in prime shape:
Regular Cleaning: Use a soft brush or a handheld vacuum cleaner to remove chalk dust and other debris from the table surface. Always brush in the direction of the felt nap, typically from the head end to the foot end of the table, to avoid damaging the surface.
Protect from Moisture: As we know, MDF is more susceptible to warping due to humidity. Use a dehumidifier in the room where the table is kept, or place silica gel packets underneath the table to help absorb excess moisture.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keeping your table out of direct sunlight will prevent the color of the felt from fading and will reduce the risk of the wood warping due to excessive heat.
Use a Pool Table Cover: When the table is not in use, cover it with a high-quality pool table cover. This will protect the surface from dust, spills, and other potential damages.
Avoid Heavy Objects: Never sit, lean, or place heavy objects on your pool table. MDF is not as strong as slate, and undue pressure can cause the playing surface to warp.
Inspect Regularly: Make it a habit to inspect your pool table for signs of wear and tear. Look for loose pockets, fraying felt, or warping wood and address issues promptly.
Refelting When Necessary: Although many MDF tables are not designed for easy refelting, it is possible with some models. If your felt becomes too worn or damaged, consider hiring a professional to replace it.
Climate Control: As highlighted earlier in this article, the ideal place for an MDF table is in a temperature-controlled room. Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level to minimize the chances of warping.
Keep Drinks Away: It’s tempting to have a drink while playing, but an accidental spill could have disastrous consequences for an MDF table. Set up a separate area for drinks to reduce the risk of spills.
Professional Leveling: If you notice that the table isn’t as level as it used to be, it might be time to call in a professional. They can assess whether the table can be re-leveled or if it’s time for a replacement.
By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your MDF pool table and enjoy many years of great games. Remember, the longevity of an MDF table largely depends on how well you care for it.
Pros of MDF Pool Tables
- Budget-friendly.
- Lightweight (compared to slate tables).
- Great for beginners or casual play.
- Easy to transport.
Cons of MDF Pool Tables
- Can warp when exposed to humidity and liquid.
- Short lifespan when compared to slate tables.
- Aren’t as sturdy as heavier tables.
- Should only be used in temperature-controlled rooms.
MDF vs Slate Pool Tables
When it comes to deciding on a pool table, you have two major options: slate or MDF. Slate tables are sturdier, heavier, and more resilient than MDF tables. They’re also significantly more expensive and harder to move.
A slate table will last you 20 to 25 years with proper care, whereas an MDF table typically won’t last more than 10 years in ideal playing condition. Still, for the price you pay for an MDF table, many people are fine with getting a couple of good years out of it and then purchasing a new one when the time comes.
For a more in-depth look, check out my other article onMDF vs Slate pool tables.
Is an MDF Pool Table Right For You?
Determining whether an MDF pool table is suitable for your needs requires careful consideration. Below are essential aspects to evaluate:
Questions to Ask Yourself
- How serious am I about developing as a pool player?
- Where will I be putting the table?
- How much am I willing to spend on a pool table?
- Will I need to move the pool table any time soon?
- Who else will be using the pool table?
These questions lead to several considerations:
Skill Development and Location
If you’re serious about developing your skills, a slate table might be a better investment. Similarly, if you only have a garage or an outdoor area, slate is the optimal choice.
Price Consideration
For those prioritizing the price factor, an MDF table can be an excellent option, especially if the budget doesn’t allow for a slate table.
Mobility of the Table
An MDF table is relatively easy to move compared to a slate table. If you anticipate needing to relocate the table, this can be a deciding factor.
Consideration of Other Users
Finally, consider who else will be using the table. If children will be playing on it, a durable slate table may be preferable, as it can withstand wear and tear. Slate tables also allow for felt replacement, which is usually not an option with MDF tables.
