You will need to replace your felt depending on what game you play and in what conditions. There are several different types of felt to choose from and some are better than others. Quality felt will last for a decade so you don't need to replace it as often as with lower quality materials.
The woolen cloth, the most widely used type of felt for pool tables, is very popular. This type of material is at minimum sixty percent wool. It has a thick and heavy feel. This material is also more realistic and offers better quality. It is also more affordable than other types.
If you play a lot of pool and are looking to upgrade your table, you'll want to take the time to find the best felt for your game. You have two options: either hire someone to do it for you, or you can go with a professional. But you will have to account for the cost and cost of installation. This can be a substantial investment so it's important that you know what you're doing.
While the most common type of pool table felt is woolen, you'll also find some more expensive materials. You can buy a woolen-polyester mix. This fabric doesn't meet billiard play specifications and won't last as well as cloth intended for billiards tables. This material also tends to fade faster. It is not recommended for indoor pools tables. It is also known to pilfer.
There are several other types of felt that aren't as common. Wood and polyester blends are some of the most unusual, along with snooker cloth. These types are best suited for professional tournament conditions. They come in a wide range of colors. You may be limited to the style of color you want, though.
The most expensive option is likely the woven cloth. The cloth is typically made in 14-22 ounce weights. It has a tight weave that makes it naturally spill resistant. The weave is also important to ensure the material lasts. Although it is not cheap to produce, it can be extremely costly.
You will have a better game experience and a longer table if you use the highest quality felt. It is also easy to clean so it's a great choice for busy homes. Break pads are a great idea to reduce wear and tear, especially if you play on the material for long periods.
It's a smart move to buy a cloth with an interesting label. The best cloths have a unique label to differentiate them from others. It's a smart idea to buy cloth that has been backed up by a trusted company. Backed cloth will be much more resistant to wear and tear, making it a better choice for home use.