Let’s face it --- not everyone has extra space like a basement or a game room to set up a pool table in their home. But don’t worry! Having a pool table at home is still possible.

A garage, for instance, is a cheap and excellent place for your pool table. However, it requires strict maintenance, careful planning, and a bit of hard work. Moreover, there are several factors you need to consider before doing so, such as:

• The type of table you have
• The exact amount of space you need
• How to deal with potential moisture (e.g., water pooling) and climate issues
• How to protect your pool table from regular wear and tear.

Is a Single Car Garage Enough to Store Your Pool Table?

The short answer is YES. A single car garage has enough space for you to set up a pool table.

If you’re wondering how this arrangement could be pulled off, keep on reading. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about keeping a pool table in the garage: The best type of pool table, as well as the exact space you need, what to expect when owning a pool table, and different ways to protect it in the long run.

Pool Table in the Garage: How Much Space Do You Need?

A typical two-car garage is 22’ by 20’ big, but not everyone has the same garage dimensions, so it’s up to you to ensure that you’ll have adequate space for your pool table and your car.

In addition, when installing your pool table in the garage, make sure that you have enough legroom and space for the pool cue stick to move.

Here’s how much space you need depending on the size of your pool table:

• 14’ x 18’ free space (minimum) for a 4.5’ x 9’ pool table
• 13.5’ x 17’ free space (minimum) for a 4’ x 8’ pool table
• 13’ by 16’ free space (minimum) for a 3.5’ x 7’ pool table

What Is the Best Kind of Pool Table for Your Garage?

Two of the pool table’s weaknesses include humidity and extreme temperatures. Hence, ensure that your pool table will last you for an extended period of time.

If your garage is not insulated and climate-controlled, don’t worry! It’s not the end of the world. The following are the best type of pool tables you might want to consider for your garage right now:

Slate Bed Pool Tables

These tables can last you for several decades and still look good as new as long as you give them some proper care and maintenance.

On top of that, this type of pool table is highly resistant to warping as it won’t be affected by humidity or temperature. No doubt, this is an excellent choice for your garage.

Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) Bed Pool Table

This is a great alternative if you are a bit tight on budget. The Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) Bed Pool Table is made from tiny wood fibers that are moisture-resistant, making sure it lasts for several years.

Factors that Can Ruin Your Garage Pool Table

Now, let’s take a look at some factors that can quickly ruin your pool table, especially when not given enough care and maintenance.

Extreme Temperature Changes

Pool tables are susceptible to extreme temperature changes. It could target the cushions and cause them to harden upon prolonged exposure.

Does it affect the overall playability? No. But if you want to save time, money and get away from the maintenance and the hassle, this is something you might want to look out for.

Conducive Play Environment

Your garage can easily get too hot or too cold depending on the weather and the season, especially if it’s not insulated and climate-controlled. Hence, you may not feel comfortable playing at all.

Humidity

Most pool tables are made of wood. Thus, they are not that moisture resistant, even if the wood is treated properly.

Does your garage have high levels of humidity? In that case, your pool table can loosen up, warp, and crack easily. Since it’s made of wood, your pool table won’t be moisture resistant, even if treated properly. As a result, there can also be an increased risk of mold growth due to warm temperatures and excess moisture.

How to Protect Your Pool Table in the Garage

There are easy and practical tips to protect your pool table from being damaged. Here are they:

• Use a dehumidifier. If you live in a humid climate, this can help with cooling and drying in your garage.
• Add floor covering. This can help insulate your garage floor and regulate temperature.
• Install garage insulation. This can help protect your pool table, ensuring it stays safe and intact no matter the temperature and season.
• Use Air conditioning Unit and Heater. This can allow the internal temperature of the garage to regulate. You can either use your house’s AC and heater or a portable one.

Final Thoughts

Keeping a pool table in your garage is indeed plausible and worth the hassle, especially that you’re going to be saving all the money and trouble from driving to and from pool table rentals with poorly maintained equipment. However, it undeniably takes an extra amount of effort.

Most of the problems a garage pool table would face are with regards to humidity and temperature. Still, it’s definitely something you can easily overcome with a bit of patience, analysis, and cash. By just making sure you have enough space, a cheap air conditioning unit, a heater, and enough insulation, you will now be able to play pool at the convenience of your own home.

Want to have your own home (and possibly with a garage)? Read ”The Ultimate Guide to Buying Home as a Millennial” to learn more.