How to Buy a Used Pool Table Without Getting Burned
A used pool table can save you thousands and play just as well as new if you know what to look for. Here's the complete buyer's checklist from our team at Billiard Home.
1. Why Buy Used?
A quality pool table is built to last 50+ years. Slate doesn't wear out. Hardwood frames don't degrade. The only parts that need replacement felt and cushion rubber are routine maintenance items that cost $300–$800 to replace.
That means a 15-year-old Brunswick or Olhausen, properly restored, plays identically to a brand-new one. But it costs 40–60% less.
Quick Math:
New 8ft quality table: $4,500–$7,000
Used 8ft (inspected, installed, refelted): $2,300–$3,500
Savings: $2,000–$3,500
2. The Inspection Checklist
Before you hand over any money, check these 10 things:
1. Slate Condition
Check for cracks, chips, or water stains. Slate is the most expensive component to replace. Hairline cracks along seams are often cosmetic, but large cracks mean walk away.
2. Frame & Legs
Look for warping, rot, or instability. Push the table from the side it shouldn't wobble. Check where the legs meet the frame for cracks.
3. Rail Cushions (Bumpers)
Bounce a ball off each rail. It should rebound consistently with a lively snap. Dead, mushy bounces mean the rubber needs replacing ($200–$500).
4. Felt/Cloth Condition
Worn felt is expected and cheap to replace ($250–$450 for refelt). Burns, tears, or heavy pilling just mean you'll budget for new cloth.
5. Level Check
Place a ball in the center it should stay still. Roll it slowly across the table. Slight imperfection is normal (re-leveling fixes it), but major slope suggests frame issues.
6. Pockets
Check pocket liners and drop nets. Leather pockets add character but may need replacement. Plastic ones are cheap to swap.
7. Slate Seams
3-piece slate tables have seams. Run your finger across them they should feel smooth and level. Bad seam work causes balls to jump or veer.
8. Ball Return (if applicable)
Coin-op or ball-return tables are common. Test the mechanism. Missing parts can be expensive to source.
9. Brand & Model
Know what you're buying. Brunswick, Olhausen, Diamond, and Connelly hold value well. Off-brand tables may use MDF instead of real slate.
10. Included Accessories
Cues, balls, rack, cover, light these add up to $200+ if bought separately. Ask what's included.
3. Red Flags That Mean Walk Away
✕ Cracked or broken slate (not seam cracks, actual breaks)
✕ MDF bed sold as "slate" (knock on it, MDF sounds hollow)
✕ Seller won't let you play a test game
✕ Water damage visible on wood frame or slate
✕ Previous DIY move with no professional reassembly
✕ "It just needs to be leveled" (could mean much more)
4. How to Negotiate the Price
Used tables on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp are almost always negotiable. Here's your leverage:
Moving costs work in your favor. Most sellers want the table gone. Moving a pool table costs $300–$800and the seller often can't do it themselves. You're solving their problem.
Factor in restoration costs. If the felt is worn and cushions are dead, deduct $400–$800 from your offer. Be transparent: "I'm budgeting $500 for refelt and cushions, so I can offer $X for the table."
Cash talks. Offer cash, same-day pickup. Most sellers will take 15–25% less for the convenience.
5. Why Professional Installation Is Non-Negotiable
This is where most people go wrong. They find a great table for a great price, then try to move and set it up themselves. Here's what happens:
DIY disasters we've seen:
• Cracked slate from improper carrying (each piece weighs 150–250 lbs)
• Scratched hardwood floors from dragging the frame
• Uneven seams that make balls jump at the center
• Table that won't level because shimming was done wrong
• Felt stretched unevenly, causing ball drift
Professional installation costs $300–$600 depending on distance and stairs. It includes disassembly at the seller's location, safe transport, reassembly, slate leveling, seam filling, and felt stretching. That's money well spent when you're protecting a $2,000+ investment.
6. Total Cost Breakdown
Compare that to $4,500–$7,000+ for a comparable new table with installation. The math is clear.
7. Where to Buy Used Tables in California
Option 1: Buy direct from Billiard Home. We source, inspect, and sell used tables with delivery + installation included in one bundle price. No surprises, no risk. We handle everything.
Option 2: Buy private + hire us to move/install. Find a table on Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp, then hire us for professional pickup, transport, and installation. We'll even inspect it for you before you buy.
Option 3: Tell us what you want. Looking for a specific brand, size, or style? We'll source it across our SoCal network and find it for you.
Ready to find your table?
Tell us your city, room size, and budget. We'll match you with the right table and handle the rest.