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Or you one table tennis table you can leave outside depends on the type of table tennis table you have.
There is a difference between indoor table tennis tables and outdoor tables.
If you want to leave a table tennis table outside, you should also go for an outdoor model. If you want to use an indoor table outside, that is also possible, but it is best to put it back inside after use.
These types of tables are not resistant to UV radiation and other weather conditions.
What we discuss in this comprehensive post:
Features outdoor table tennis table
Outdoor table tennis tables are therefore intended for outdoor use, but also if you are looking for a table tennis table for the basement or garage.
An outdoor table should be used in any place where moisture can reach.
Outdoor table tennis tables get a special treatment and for these tables other materials used than is the case with indoor tables.
Outdoor tables are resistant to wind, water and solar radiation.
Manufacturers choose smart materials for developing outdoor tables, so it is no problem if your table is outside in bad weather.
Materials of outdoor tables
If you go for an outdoor table, you generally have a choice of two types: a table made of aluminum or one made of melamine resin.
We also see concrete and steel in outdoor tables.
Aluminium
If you choose an aluminum table tennis table, you will notice that it is completely covered with aluminum along the sides and at the bottom.
The playing surface receives a special treatment and is moisture and weather resistant.
Melamine resin
Melamine resin tables are very sturdy and thick.
In addition to being weather-resistant, the panel is also well protected against other influences. The table will not easily be damaged.
It brings extra fun if you can play on a table that can take a beating.
In general, we can say that the quality determines how well a table can withstand collisions and damage.
The thicker and harder the plate, the more evenly and higher the ball will bounce.
The great thing about outdoor tables is that you can leave these tables outside, even during a rain shower.
If the table has been rained on and you want to use it, you only have to dry the table with a cloth and it is ready for use again!
Concrete or steel
These are also called the 'permanent' outdoor tables. These are fixed in place and cannot be moved.
They are perfect for public authorities, or in playgrounds or on campsites, companies.
Because they are used so intensively, it is important that they can take a beating. Concrete tables are made from a single piece of concrete and/or with a robust steel frame.
Steel table tennis tables are made of galvanized steel and are also very strong. Just like concrete tables, they are suitable for schools, companies and outdoor locations.
Unlike concrete tables, you can simply fold them. And so easy to store!
Other reasons why you should choose an outdoor table
Outdoor tables are therefore specially designed for outdoor use, so that you can play outside if you feel like it.
Especially when the weather is nice outside, it is more fun to be outside table tennis to play indoors.
Another reason why you can go for an outdoor table is because you may not have enough space for a table tennis table indoors.
Or because you just like playing outside much more.
Furthermore, outdoor tables are provided with a coating that prevents sunlight from reflecting on the playing surface.
This will ensure that your view is not obstructed when the sun is shining brightly.
An outdoor model is often best
Even if you want to place a table tennis table in a shed or under a roof, it is best to go for an outdoor model.
Outdoor tables are made of durable materials, making them ideal for use in humid areas.
Due to the use of these types of materials, outdoor table tennis tables are a bit more expensive than indoor tables.
Outdoor table tennis tables can therefore be left outside all year round, but by using a cover, the lifespan will be extended.
Even in winter, the tables can be left outside.
If you have a moisture-free shed or want to use the table tennis table indoors, go for an indoor table.
You can also use an indoor table outside, but only do so when the weather is good. Put the table back inside after use.
Leaving the table outside and using a cover is also not an option.
Read here which table tennis tables are best to buy (also budget, pro and outdoor options)
Outdoor table tennis table: what is the effect on the game?
Using a table tennis table outside is therefore possible, but does playing outside affect the game?
Of course, if you play outside, the weather can affect your game.
It is important that you prevent the wind from ruining your game of table tennis. You can do that by playing with special outdoor balls.
Outdoor or foam table tennis ball
Outdoor table tennis balls have a diameter of 40mm - the same size as the general table tennis balls - but are 30% heavier than a regular table tennis ball.
This is the perfect ball if you play outside and there is a lot of wind.
You can also use a foam table tennis ball. This kind of ball is less sensitive to wind but otherwise bounces well!
You can't train with it, but children can just play with it.
I the best table tennis balls listed here (incl. best outdoor option)
More space
When you play outside, you generally have more space than when you play inside. That doesn't always have to be the case, but it often is.
This means that you can also play table tennis with more people, for example by playing 'around the table'.
The players move around the table in a circle. You hit the ball to the other side and move yourself to the other side of the table.
In general, it is recommended to go for a medium table if you do not have much space.
These are tables that have a smaller size than the standard tables. They have a length of 2 meters and a width of 98 cm.
To use a medium table, you need at least 10 m² of space to play without any problems.
Do you have enough space? Then go for the standard model.
These tables are 2,74 m long and between 1,52 and 1,83 m wide (depending on whether or not the net sticks out).
You need 15 m² of space to enjoy playing on a standard table tennis table.
In sunshine
If you are going to play a game of table tennis in the sun (wonderful!), then we recommend using a spare bat - if you have one - or alternatively an outdoor bat.
Sunlight can cause the rubbers to become less slippery, making the paddle less and less usable.
The terrain
If you place your table on an uneven surface (grass or gravel, for example), this can affect the stability of your table.
Take the following things into account if you want to set up your table as stable as possible:
Adjustable legs
If your table has adjustable legs, make sure that you use the legs to ensure that the table runners are placed perpendicular to each other.
Of course you want to prevent the table tops from moving.
Thick legs
The thicker the legs, the more stable your table will be.
Thickness of table edge and top
The thickness of your table edge and tabletop affects the stiffness of the table, which in turn determines its stability.
Remmen
If you have brakes on your wheels, you can use them to prevent the table from accidentally rolling or moving during gameplay.
In addition, the brakes will also limit the influence of the wind.
Additional tips
Always try to follow the assembly instructions of your table as closely as possible.
It is also important that you tighten the screws properly, so that the parts remain firmly attached to each other.
If you place your table on an even, flat surface (for example a terrace), it will simply remain upright.
In that case, a table tennis table without wheels is also an option.
If you use the table in a shared or public space, go for a sustainable table.
You must also take into account the safety regulations of the applicable legislation.
It can also be important for outdoor table tennis to set up your table in such a way that you are not bothered by the sun.
Sun rays that bounce off can affect your game and visibility. There are also table tops that limit the reflection of the sun.
Conclusion
In this article you can read that you can indeed leave table tennis tables outside, but that this must be an outdoor table.
You can also use an indoor table tennis table outside, but you should not leave it outside.
This is because it is not resistant to weather conditions such as sunlight, wind and moisture.
Playing table tennis outside can affect your game, so it's important to keep that in mind.
For example, it is advised to use an outdoor or foam table tennis ball.
You may also need to take into account the sun and the surface on which you place the table.
You know, by the way what is the most important rule in table tennis?
