Find the Perfect Pool Table Light For your Game Room/Billiard Room

It is important to set a mood. Whether you are looking to fashion an atmosphere that creates a feeling of competitiveness or fun, finding a pool table light that balances ambiance with style is key.

Although design is important, you may want to figure out the technical stuff first. It is important to know the proper height to place your lighting. Although it is generally recommended that the light be placed about 36 to 42 inches above the bed, it is a rule of thumb that the bottom of the fixture should fall around bridge level of the player’s nose. What this does is illuminates the table, while simultaneously preventing a glare in the player’s eyes. If you are hanging your pool table light prior to installing the table itself, measure from the floor to the bottom of the fixture; the height should range from 66 to 72 inches from the floor.

Another thing to consider is heat buildup. Using the proper bulbs is just as important as determining the correct height, as too much heat can not only effect how the players play, but damage the fixture itself. As a rule, lights should be about 40 inches in length, and use around 4 incandescent, 100 watt bulbs. Plastic shades tend to produce more heat, so it is recommended that you use reflective floods; however, a reflective shade can usually handle regular light bulbs.

Now that you have established the technical requirements, you can move on to finding the perfect light for your billiard room. One of the most popular styles by far is the ‘rustic’ look. There are two distinctive variations on this design; the first, of course, being stained glass. These lights generally give the feeling of an old-timey bar, and have a certain nostalgic appeal. They usually have flat, colorful panes of glass held in place by a heavy lead frame. The glass almost invariably forms intricate patterns that are meant to throw off colorful beams of light at the sides, while keeping a clear, focused ray on the pool table. The second variation calls forth a more woodsy feel. Although stained glass may still be used, the colors are usually more subdued; often appearing in shades of brown, black, or a frosted white, and the lead frame may be used for more than just holding the glass in place; it may be used to create patterns, often of things like deer, bears or other wild game animals. It is not uncommon to see the base of this particular style made of aged wood, or to see it crowned with things like tree branches or antlers.

Although less frequently seen, a more modern style of lighting may be used, and can be just as stylish and effective as some of the more common designs. This style leans more towards simplicity of design and color. It is not unusual to see a modern pool table light done entirely in silver; these usually have triangular shades, and are mounted on a track. Occasionally you may see large round domes hanging from a silver or black track or chains. These usually hold 2 to 4 domes, and may have bands of color around the body – a vague homage to the old fashioned lights.

If you are creating a theme with your game room, you can also find lights that contain subjects that fit into the style you are going for. For instance, if sports play a large part in your design, you can easily acquire a pool table light that boldly states the name of a favored sports team; these are almost always done in the first variation of the rustic style. The glass can be formed into the teams’ font, and stained into its official colors. You can also include things like helmets, balls or other sports paraphernalia. If you prefer a barroom feel, you can also find alcohol and beer brand logo designs. These may be done in the stained glass style, or the modern designs which feature the triangular shades.

Searching through stores or online can yield a remarkable amount of variety, but if you still have not found the pool table light of your dreams, you might consider custom made lighting. By doing this you can create the perfect light that fits your theme; you can choose the right colors, whether you want a logo, pattern or words, and whatever style you prefer. This option tends to cost a little more than a pre-made piece; however, if you want something that is uniquely your own, this is a good choice.

Although it may be difficult to decide what type of light you want to illuminate your game play, there are many options to choose from, and with a little research, you will be certain to find a piece that fits your theme, your game and your personal style.