Can You Really Keep a Pool Table Outside?

Imagine stepping out to your patio on a warm evening, cue in hand, ready to sink a few balls under the stars. Tempting, right? But here’s the reality: not all pool tables are built for life outdoors. The sun, rain, and humidity can be harsh on pool tables, and this should be considered; traditional indoor tables don’t always hold up under those conditions. That said, with the right approach and materials, an outdoor setup can absolutely work, but you need to know what you’re getting into.

Why Most Pool Tables Aren’t Made to Stay Outside

1. The Elements Work Against Them

Everything that makes a pool table great, wood, felt, slate, is vulnerable to weather.

• Moisture and humidity can warp wood, stretch felt, and damage slate.

• Rain or even morning dew may seep into the table, shifting its level or weakening its structure.

• Constant sun exposure fades felt, dries out wood, and can degrade rubber cushions.

2. Temperature Swings Take Their Toll

Outdoor temperatures fluctuate. As materials expand and contract, joints can loosen, fasteners may weaken, and over time, the table’s precision can suffer.

3. Traditional Materials Aren’t Always Up to the Job

Most indoor tables use slate, hardwood, and standard felt. Outside, these materials can crack, warp, or simply degrade if not protected or built for that environment.

How to Make It Work: Outdoor Pool Table Smartly

If you're set on having a pool table outdoors, here are two sensible routes:

Option 1: Get a Table Built for the Outdoors

Pick a model designed to handle weather. These tables usually have:

• Metal or rust-resistant frames

• Synthetic or treated playing surfaces instead of fragile slate

• UV-resistant felt

• Hardware that resists water and corrosion

Such tables are engineered to survive the elements while still offering a quality playing experience.

Option 2: Bring an Indoor Table Outside—With Caution

If you already own a quality indoor table, you can try to use it outdoors temporarily, but only with serious protection:

• Use a tight-fitting, waterproof, UV-proof cover.

• Place the table under shelter—a covered patio, gazebo, or similar.

• Clean and maintain it regularly: remove debris, check for rust, and brush the felt.

• Monitor for moisture change or other damage—tools like dehumidifiers or airflow solutions help.

• Consider seasonal storage: move the table inside or into a dry space when conditions become extreme.

Why the Risk Is Real

People who've tried this speak up: pool tables left outside can warp, warp, or worse. Even with a cover, humidity has wrecked fine tables. Rain, sun, and temperature swings all combine to challenge the materials, and without constant vigilance, damage can add up.

Proven Tips for Ready-to-Risk Pool Table Owners

If you’re sticking with your plan, here’s how to protect your table the smart way:

1. Invest in a premium, weather-resistant cover.

2. Choose your spot wisely—shade + shelter = less risk.

3. Keep cleaning: brush off leaves, dry the surface, and inspect weekly.

4. Stay on top of climate: use dehumidifiers or fans to control moisture.

5. Think long-term: consider storing the table during the off-season.

The Bottom Line

Yes, you can put a pool table outside. But it’s not a simple choice, and traditional indoor tables aren’t best suited for it unless you take serious precautions or modify your setup. If you want long-lasting performance, a table built for outdoor use is often the safest bet.

FAQs

1. Can you keep an indoor pool table outside?

No, indoor pool tables are made with felt, wood, and rubber materials that cannot withstand outdoor weather. Exposure to humidity, temperature changes, and sunlight can damage these materials, causing warping, swelling, brittleness, and deterioration of playability.

2. Can you waterproof a pool table meant for indoors?

No, you cannot waterproof the felt surface of an indoor table. While wood can be sealed, felt absorbs moisture, and sealing it would affect the gameplay and leveling.

3. What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pool tables?

Outdoor pool tables are designed with weather-resistant materials like aluminum or steel frames, and waterproof playing surfaces made from vinyl or Sunbrella fabrics that can handle rain, sunlight, and temperature changes.

4. Can you keep a pool table under a covered patio?

A covered patio helps protect the table from some exposure, but it is not sufficient for an indoor table. Even under cover, indoor tables can still be exposed to humidity and temperature fluctuations that cause damage.

5. How do you maintain an outdoor pool table?

Use a high-quality, waterproof cover to shield it from rain, snow, and UV rays when not in use. Position the table in a covered or shaded area if possible. Regular cleaning, drying after moisture exposure, and avoiding heavy objects on the table help extend its life.

6. Can outdoor pool tables be used all year round?

Yes, outdoor tables are built to handle various weather conditions and can last 5 to 10 years or more with proper care, though the longevity depends on the materials and maintenance.

7. Are outdoor pool tables worth the investment?

They free up indoor space, provide entertainment outdoors with natural light, and add to outdoor amenities. Some models even convert into dining tables for extra versatility.

8. Should billiard balls and cues be stored indoors?

Yes, to prolong their life, balls and cues should be stored indoors when not in use.