How To Choose The Right Shuffleboard Table?

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Shuffleboard Federation Shuffleboard Tables,
Accessories Supplies How To Choose The Right
Shuffleboard Table? Thinking about buying a
shuffleboard table for your home or business?
What is the difference between a shuffleboard
table that is just so-so and one that is perfect
for you? There are many factors to consider, such
as the size of the table, the choice of
materials, finish and design. Note that the
tables discussed here are intended for indoor
use. If you have never tried shuffleboard, the
game is played by pushing weights, or pucks along
a waxed shuffleboard surface with your hands.
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Shuffleboard Federation Shuffleboard Tables,
Accessories Supplies Table Size The first
important factor to consider is the size of the
table you want to purchase. Shuffleboards are
long and narrow. They are between approximately
9 feet to 22 feet in length and are usually 16 -
20 inches in width. A professional table is 22
feet long and 20 inches wide. So the first
decision is where you plan to put your
shuffleboard table. In addition to the size of
the table, you must allow space for players to
stand at each end of the table and lean forward
to shoot. This is generally estimated at three
feet of playing space at each end and enough
space to walk around the table. Also make sure
your doorways and hallways are wide enough to get
your beautiful new table into the room. When
considering size, don't guess, or quickly pace
it off -- measure. Generally, it is best to get
the largest size your room will comfortably
hold, because longer tables mean more challenging
games and the longer you have your table, the
more your skills will improve. Table
Width Table width is an important consideration.
Many experts recommend a width of at least 18
inches. In order to have a competitive, strategic
game, you will want to have enough room to move
your weights around those of your opponents. If,
however, your budget or your room size is
limited, you may wish to consider a 16 inch wide
table that is 12 - 16 feet long. Smaller sized
weights will work better on a smaller playing
field. Materials The best shuffleboard tables
are traditionally made from North American maple
or white maple. This type of wood offers a
smooth, hard surface and resists changes in
humidity and other climatic factors. Other good
quality woods for shuffleboards are Russian
birth and Canadian soft maple.
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Shuffleboard Federation Shuffleboard Tables,
Accessories Supplies Less expensive
shuffleboard tables may be made from poplar,
rubber wood or China birch. These may be
affected by climatic conditions and result in an
uneven playing surface. Surface Finish The top
of a shuffleboard table consists of layers of
wood which have been laminated together. These
run vertically to the playing surface. The
quality of the finish is critical to consistent
game play. The top surface should be a good
quality polymer coating. This will provide a
smooth finish. The polymer resin should be about
a quarter-inch thick. Shuffleboard Design There
is a slight concave curve in a shuffleboard
table, to reduce the chance of the weight
slipping off the side. This curvature is affected
by weather conditions, particularly humidity.
All shuffleboards have this curvature, so you
should look for a table that has climatic
adjusters. These are metal bars under the table
that keep it from warping. Another design
feature is a scoring grid. These are marked at
both ends of the table. Some tables feature the
triangular scoring grid, often used for outdoor
shuffleboards. The most common scoring grid is
known as the 1-2-3 scoring system. It is a
three-level grid which is sectioned into three
categories. Your shuffleboard table is a
long-term investment. There are excellent waxes,
board wipes and other cleaning supplies available
to help you keep your shuffleboard in the best
possible shape. Your shuffleboard table will be a
great addition to any family game room. Whether
you are playing for recreation or sport,
shuffleboard encourages social interaction,
improves eye- hand coordination and it is
competitive, spirited fun.