A pool table is more than a piece of furniture it’s an investment for recreation and skill-building. Over time, the felt covering on the playing surface wears down from repeated use, chalk dust, spills, or simple aging. Refelting your table restores smooth gameplay, ensures balls roll correctly, and enhances its appearance. But before calling a technician or considering a DIY project, the most common question is: How much does it cost to refelt a pool table.
This guide provides a complete breakdown of refelting costs, factors that influence pricing, and what you should consider before deciding between professional or DIY services.
Why Refelting a Pool Table Matters
Even the best-maintained tables eventually show signs of wear. Felt that becomes thin, torn, or uneven directly impacts gameplay. If the surface is rough, balls may slow down prematurely or roll off course, frustrating both casual players and enthusiasts. Refelting is more than cosmetic it maintains the table’s functionality and extends its lifespan.
Signs your pool table may need refelting include:
- Noticeable tears, holes, or fraying edges
- Uneven ball roll during gameplay
- Discoloration from chalk, dust, or spills
- Excessive pilling or fuzz on the fabric
Average Cost to Refelt a Pool Table
So, how much does it cost to refelt a pool table? The price generally ranges between $250 and $600 depending on table size, felt quality, and service provider. For premium materials and professional installation, costs may rise to $700 or more.
Typical Price Breakdown:
- 7-foot table (bar size): $250 – $400
- 8-foot table (standard home size): $300 – $500
- 9-foot table (tournament size): $400 – $600+
These figures cover both material and labor. If you choose high-performance felt or live in an area with higher service rates, expect the higher end of the range.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Refelting
The price is not fixed—it depends on multiple variables. Understanding these helps you budget more accurately.
1. Table Size
Larger tables require more fabric, which directly increases cost. A 9-foot tournament table may cost significantly more to refelt than a smaller 7-foot bar table.
2. Felt Material
There are different types of pool table felt, and your choice impacts both cost and performance.
- Standard woolen felt: $100 – $200 (material only)
- Worsted felt (professional quality): $250 – $400 (material only)
Worsted felt provides a smoother, faster playing surface and is commonly used in professional tournaments. While more expensive, it lasts longer and offers superior performance.
3. Labor Costs
Hiring a professional usually adds $150 – $300 for installation. Rates vary depending on location and expertise. Some technicians also include additional services like leveling the table or replacing cushions, which may increase the total.
4. Location and Availability
Urban areas with higher labor costs often charge more for pool table services. If you live in a rural area, you may pay extra for travel fees.
5. Additional Repairs
If your table requires cushion replacement, slate repair, or pocket adjustments, these add to the final bill. Cushion replacement, for example, can cost $300–$500 on top of refelting.
Extending the Life of Your Pool Table Felt
Once you’ve invested in refelting, proper maintenance will help extend the felt’s lifespan, delaying the need for another replacement.
Practical Maintenance Tips:
- Brush the felt regularly with a pool table brush to remove chalk and dust.
- Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment for deeper cleaning.
- Keep food and drinks away from the table to avoid spills.
- Cover the table when not in use to protect it from sunlight and dust.
- Avoid sitting or placing heavy items on the table surface.
On average, quality felt lasts 5 to 7 years with regular play, or up to 10 years with light use.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does it cost to refelt a pool table? On average, expect to spend $250 to $600, depending on table size, felt quality, and labor. Professional refelting guarantees accuracy, while DIY can save money for those comfortable with the process. With proper care, your newly felted table can provide years of smooth gameplay and entertainment.
Investing in refelting is not just about cost it’s about preserving the playing experience, extending your table’s lifespan, and ensuring every game is enjoyable.
