The felt on your pool table plays a huge role in how well your game runs. Over time, even the best billiard cloth will wear down, affecting how the balls roll and impacting your overall experience. Whether you’ve picked up a used pool table and want to refresh its look, or you’re considering changing the color of the felt on a newer table, knowing when to re-felt is key to keeping your game sharp and protecting your investment. So, how do you know when it’s time for a felt replacement? Here are a few signs to watch for:
1. Obvious Wear and Tear
One of the clearest signs your pool table needs new felt is visible damage. You might notice:
- Frayed edges around the pockets or seams.
- Rips or tears in the fabric.
- Worn-out spots where the felt has thinned or completely worn through.
If you see any of these, it’s time for a replacement. Not only do they affect the table’s look, but they can also interfere with the game, causing balls to roll unevenly or unpredictably.
2. Stubborn Stains
Spills are bound to happen—whether it’s a drink, chalk dust, or the oils from your hands. If you’ve tried cleaning the felt and the stains just won’t budge, it might be time to replace it. Stains can not only look bad, but they can also affect the texture and playability of the felt.
3. Slow or Weird Ball Movement
When your pool table felt starts wearing out, you’ll likely notice the balls moving more slowly than usual, or not rolling as smoothly as they should. Felt that’s past its prime loses its smoothness and causes the balls to drag. If your shots are inconsistent or sluggish, re-felting your table can get everything back on track.
4. Loose or Wrinkled Felt
If you’re seeing bumps, wrinkles, or areas where the felt feels loose, that’s a definite sign it needs attention. Loose felt means it’s stretched or wasn’t installed properly in the first place. These imperfections affect the playability of the table, and re-felting is the best way to smooth things out.
5. It’s Just Old
Even if everything looks fine, the felt on your table may be reaching the end of its lifespan. On average, felt lasts between 5 to 10 years, depending on how often you play. If your table’s felt is approaching or has passed that mark, consider replacing it to keep things playing smoothly.
Why Re-Felting Makes a Difference
Getting new felt isn’t just about looks—it’s about restoring how the table plays. Fresh felt makes a huge difference in ball control and accuracy, giving you the fast, smooth surface that makes for a great game. At Pro Billiards, we’ve re-felted thousands of tables, and we know how to get yours back to its best condition.
Time to Re-Felt Your Table?
If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s probably time to think about re-felting your pool table. With over 20 years of experience, Pro Billiards offers fast and professional service to get your table back in top shape. Contact us today to schedule your re-felting and enjoy your pool table like it’s brand new again!