You're done with dinner. Then what? You and your family could go your separate ways or get involved in a hot table tennis game. In the past, it was very difficult to access tournament table tennis tables for home use. Fast forward today and things are a little different. Since table tennis became the sport of choice for many, tables have been much easier to find. All you have to do is find a design that you like at a price you can afford and your new table will be delivered to your door in a few days.
There is so much variety on the market that you are spoiled for choice in which table to invest in. Believe it or not, this can be a good thing as you want a wide selection so you can make the best possible choice. But how are table tennis tables made? Here's everything you need to know:
What materials should table tennis tables be made of?
The rules for table tennis state that the playing surface can be made of any material as long as it offers a uniform jump of approximately 23 cm or 9 inches when a standard table tennis ball is dropped onto the surface from a height of 30 cm or approximately 12 Inch. Most table tops are typically made of plywood, plastic, metal, particle board or glass fibers and can vary in thickness. However, the best table tennis tables are supplied with wooden boards with a thickness of about 25 to 30 mm. The thicker the surface, the better the table tennis table is.
For large tournaments and competitions, only wood or wooden surfaces are permitted. The surface of the table tends to have certain properties, including:
- A 1/8 inch centerline and 3/4 inch sideline
- The surface is always matt and has a maximum gloss of 60 degrees
- CIELAB must be 44% bright
- The surface should have a smooth surface that is free of dents, textures or markings
Is the color of the table tennis table important?
The color of the ping pong table may be the last thing to worry about, but it is important. The surface of the table must offer a good contrast between the walls, floors and other surrounding background colors of the play area. In the past, the surface of the table tennis table was traditionally green or gray. In order to better burst the surfaces for the television audience, there was an experimental phase in sports in the early 90s in which different colored tables were used.
Finally, matte blue was chosen as the preferred color because it complemented the red carpet of the floor in most tournaments. This means that the International Table Tennis Federation would only approve the use of blue or green tables. Things changed in 2016, however, when the association received complaints from players who would have trouble distinguishing between green and red hues. According to the current status of the ITTF, table tennis tables must have a dark, matt color.
What kind of paint is used for the surface?
Most tables are painted with a sprayer or roller. A primer must be used first before adding more layers (usually 2). Alkyd paint is by far the most commonly used paint for table tennis tables. Alkyd paint typically has thinners made from alcohol or mineral spirits. The thinners offer a smooth finish and excellent durability as well as resistance to damage and abrasion. Alkyd paint is mainly available in green and dark green shades.
What about the networks?
Table tennis nets are said to be 6 feet long and 6 inches high and can be made from a range of materials ranging from cotton cloths and nylon nets to synthetic plastics. When you clean your ping pong table, you need to remember to take care of the net too, so that it offers you excellent service.
The table tennis chassis
Affordable table tennis tables are usually supplied with a frame under the table surface, which is mainly made of aluminum. This type of table is ideal for beginners and learners. However, professional players and experienced champions find it difficult to play with a table with undercarriage, as they become very shaky and even collapse after a while. You can find more information in this detailed article.
The legs
The legs of the table tennis table can be either oval or square tubular. The legs are usually made from the same material as the chassis, most likely from heavy steel or aluminum. Heavy steel is the first choice for high quality table tennis tables because it offers more strength and stability. The wheels themselves are made of rubber.
Always use a protective cover when your table tennis table is not in use
Finally, a word about protecting your table tennis table. Although most table tennis tables, especially outdoor varieties, are made from strong materials that can withstand the tough outdoor elements, they are still not indestructible. If you leave your table unprotected all year round, you will be surprised at how much damage it can take.
Your table will have a better lifespan if you fold it up after each use and keep it in a protective cover. Protective covers are important investments because they not only help to extend the life of your table tennis table, but also protect them from the weather. Dirt, dust, moisture, sweat, animal hair and spills can quickly worsen your pride and joy.
High-end tables are usually supplied with a cover. However, if you don't have one, you can easily buy them at your local sports shop. When buying your table tennis table, you must pay attention to the dimensions, shape and material used for the construction. And with so many options available, there's no doubt that you'll get a solid, durable cover that will keep your table safe.
