Clear space on all four sides of the table for standing and shooting in comfort, without striking wall or furniture with cues! At least 3½' of free space, next to each side, is a good minimum.
For "4 x 8's" (tables with a playing surface twice as long as they are wide or four feet by eight feet), center the table in an area approximately 165 square feet, and for 4½ x 9's, about 185 square feet. Leave extra room nearby for storing accessories!
Avoid damp rooms prone to mold. Excessive humidity can ruin a felt and warp cues and tables.
Keep drinks and cigarettes far away from your pool and billiards. If your hands sweat exceedingly or bleed (you're playing too much, get some fresh air!) be careful not to stain your felt.
An overhead light source should hang from the ceiling about three feet above the direct center of the playing surface. Using a natural light source alone, from bay windows and the like, tends to create shadows on the table that make aiming and shooting incredibly difficult and frustrating, no matter whether you have adequate pool room space.
