tips for buying a shuffleboard table for an arcade

6 Shuffleboard Table Buying Tips to Remember for Your Game Room

shuffleboard table buying tips

It’s not just for cruise liners anymore, shuffleboard is blast anytime, anyplace. Whether at your local pub, a party, or an arcade; a few rounds of shuffleboard will do you some good. The game is so simple and yet so nuanced. It’s a game that is both exciting and relaxing for everyone.

Shuffleboard is an easy game to pick up, and once you do you're hooked! The game is easy on the body, giving folks of all ages a chance to get in on the fun. Now, you might be wondering what’s the best shuffleboard table for your place and which one you should buy. It can all get confusing but don't worry! Here are six simple tips to help you along and get you shuffleboarding today:

1) Get Supplies for Maintenance

You’ll want to be prepared. Shuffleboard tables require a bit more regular maintenance than other game tables. However, the upkeep is pretty simple and should not deter you! Just be sure to pick up some shuffleboard powder and glaze to care for the surface. It's also highly recommended to acquire some broomsticks, table rags, and a wooden scraper. All these tools will be useful for keeping your shuffleboard table in good shape in the future.

2) Check the Shuffleboard Sizing

Although this might seem like an obvious one, you would be surprised at how many people get the board sizing wrong. A standard shuffleboard table is 22 feet long, however shorter tabletops are available. As far as the height of the table is concerned, if the table's too low, it can get pretty uncomfortable. Heights can vary from 30” - 37”, so be wary of any table that would take away from your enjoyment of the game. Bearing these in mind will ensure that you will get a shuffleboard table that's a perfect fit for your space

3) Look at the Material’s Finish

While most people look out for the shuffleboard board or rods, at the end of the day, the most important is the finish. For example, if you’re going for a high gloss finish table, give some serious thought to its durability or quality. While the lacquer finishes are stunning, they wear easily and with consistent play will need to be resurfaced annually. The alternative, epoxy, will last forever. However, there is a downside of discoloration over time. Ultimately, the decision is yours but when maintenance cost is a factor, epoxy is likely the best fit.

4) Be Mindful of the Cabinet

A good shuffleboard cabinet is very important to ensure that your shuffleboard table stays in good shape in the future. You need to make sure that the cabinet has locks and security features. These will make sure everyone doesn’t touch your board and use it without permission. It also keeps away any of the extra supplies from random people. After all, this is an arcade and you can’t be too careful.

5) Try to buy with Climactic Adjusters

The perfect shuffleboard surface has a slight concave. To ensure that this is maintained throughout the seasons is with climatic adjusters. While these can be added aftermarket, it’s best to choose a model that has them installed from the start. They are critical to the long-term playability of the table and will need to be checked periodically.

6) Aim for a Thicker Playing Field

One last bit of advice for your shuffleboard is to get a thick playing field. This will be doubly important if your table is constructed from soft woods as they are not as dent resistant as their hardwood counterparts. It will also decrease the number of times you will need to resurface, making it ideal for commercial use.

Conclusion

Knowing what to look for in the shuffleboard table takes the hassle out of finding the best fit for your arcade. Choosing a table with a hardwood construction using an epoxy finish and built-in climatic adjusters would be a great place to start when looking for one for commercial use. However, the choice is yours now that you’re set up with some helpful tips.

Looking for arcade games for sale? Game Exchange in Denver, CO is a full-line distributor of coin-operated games, shuffleboard supplies, pool tables, billiards, and more. Shipping is available in Continental USA Get in touch with us now!

Game Exchange of Colorado

2650 West 6th Avenue

Denver, CO 80204

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