As anyone who owns a pool or billiards table (http://www.houston-pool-tables.com/) can tell you, the decorative game table is usually considered a prized possession, as well as the focus of the room in which it is kept. Maintaining the beauty and functionality of the pool table means keeping it free of spills, stains and damage. The ongoing quality of your pool table can be significantly increased through the use of pool table covers . Available in a wide range of styles, materials and prices, pool table covers are a wise investment for any serious pool table owner.

Types of Pool Table Covers

Pool table covers are sold in a variety of materials and styles. Regardless of your room decoration or budgetary concerns, finding a pool table cover to fit your needs is a simple process. All you need to know is the dimensions of your pool table and you're all set. Standard pool table covers come in sizes ranging from 7ft to 9ft, but customized, fitted covers are also an option to consider. While many covers come in the traditional green of pool felt, more expressive colors and patterned pool table covers are the latest trend. To begin your search, you should decide which cover material best suits your décor, your personal style and your budget. Typical cover materials include:

* Basic vinyl – As the most cost-effective solution, basic vinyl table protectors are available in multiple color options. Providing protection for the delicate fabric of the table surface from drink spills, leaking water and pet hair, vinyl pool table covers main feature is functionality.

* Heavy vinyl – If you typically have frequent guests and provide entertainment in the room where your pool table is located, you might want to consider a heavier vinyl cover for added durability.

* Cloth – While cloth pool table covers don't offer as much protection as vinyl, they do provide a more aesthetic presentation. Typical fabrics include crushed velvet, suede and satin type material that add a luxurious element to your game room. Cloth table covers are available in many different colors to suit your palette and can also feature pool-themed patterns.

* Leather/Leatherette – Top-of-the-line pool table covers are those fashioned from leather and leatherette materials. Featuring both durability and good looks, leather style pool table covers add elegance to any room.

Customized Pool Table Covers and Other Options

Aside from the vast array of standard pool table covers , you also have the option of having a customized pool table cover created to fit your table. You can select the material, the color and the proportions and the cover will be created to exact specifications. The fitted corners of a custom pool table cover provide additional protection for the wood, as well as decreasing the chances of the cover slipping off. Your pool table is an investment, don't let careless treatment ruin the beauty and use you can get out it for years to come.