Can An Outdoor Ping Pong Table Get Wet?
The materials used in constructing an outdoor ping pong table determine whether an outdoor ping pong table can get wet. These materials control the effect of weather damage, including wetness on the table. Rainwater, as well as other weather conditions, may affect the longevity and efficiency of the table.
A weather resistant-resin and the composition of materials that make up an outdoor ping pong tabletop allow the table to withstand different weather conditions, including rain. This resin, along with the steel composition of the tabletop, helps to protect an outdoor ping pong table that gets wet.
Even though an outdoor ping pong table can get wet, several weather conditions, aside from the rain, can also affect the table’s longevity. There are ways to improve the longevity and maintain the efficiency of an outdoor ping pong table.
Can Your Outdoor Ping Pong Table Get Wet?
When an outdoor ping pong table gets wet, damage will occur mainly on the tabletop. This damage will occur due to water lying on the tabletop’s surface. The effect of the water may result in an uneven surface and possibly even cracking the surface.
Not only does this affect the lifespan of the ping pong table, but it also affects the table’s efficiency. Players may struggle to control the ball’s bounce, speed, and spin due to the damage caused by wetness.
Why Can An Outdoor Ping Pong Table Get Wet?
The materials used in constructing the top of an outdoor ping pong table allow the table to get wet without causing severe damage. A weather-resistant resin used on top of the table surface provides maximum protection from the rain. The resin, coupled with the rigid materials used to construct the tabletop, increases the longevity and efficiency of the ping pong table.
The frame and legs of the outdoor ping pong table are usually made from galvanized steel which can cope with rainwater and sunlight.
In comparison, an indoor ping pong table is constructed mainly from wood. An indoor ping pong table should not get wet as severe damage may occur. This damage may include the ping pong tabletop losing its shape and the warping of the wood top. The frame and legs are also made of wood which will be damaged when wet
Differences Between An Outdoor And Indoor Ping Pong Table
There are several differences between an outdoor and indoor ping pong table aside from how the table may handle wet weather conditions.
| Outdoor Table | Indoor Table |
|---|---|
| Top made of metal, steel and laminate | Top made of wood |
| Top covered with a weather-resistant resin | No weather-resistant resin |
| Sturdier frame | Wooden frame |
| Can fold it for easy storage | It cannot be folded |
| More expensive | Less expensive |
| Longer lifespan | Shorter lifespan |
| It can be used outside | It cannot be used outside |
| It cannot be played in all weather conditions | It can be played in all weather conditions |
| It cannot be played easily at night due to lighting | It can be played easily at night due to controlled lighting |
An outdoor ping pong table is designed for the outdoors, giving it a longer lifespan. It does, however, cost more than an indoor table. An outdoor ping pong table requires more extensive maintenance than an indoor table, especially when exposed to wet weather conditions.
One benefit of an indoor ping pong table is that players may enjoy ping pong during the day and in the evening throughout the year. The surface of an indoor ping pong table lends itself to better ball control as opposed to an outdoor table, even though it does not handle getting wet. An indoor ping pong table is also more effective due to the controlled weather and lighting conditions indoors.
It is certainly not possible to play ping pong on an outdoor table throughout the year, especially during bad weather conditions. Aside from rain, snow, and hail, the wind can also affect a player’s ability to control the ball efficiently.
Indoor ping pong tables are superior in playing the game, but outdoor tables are more fun and less fragile.
It is also worth mentioning that all professional players play their matches on an indoor ping pong table.
Outdoor ping pong tables are used solely for recreational purposes.
How To Prevent A Ping Pong Table From Getting Wet
There are a few ways an outdoor ping pong table owner can prevent their table from getting wet.
The following actions can be taken when the ping pong table is not in use.
- Put a cover over the ping pong table.
- Fold the ping pong table.
- Fold the ping pong table and store it under a roof.
- Fold the ping pong table and store it in a garage or outside in a storeroom.
- Keep the ping pong table out of direct sunlight.
What To Do If An Outdoor Ping Pong Table Gets Wet
The longer rainwater is left on the surface of a ping pong table, the greater the risk of more severe damage. It helps to remove water from the tabletop’s surface as soon as possible and not leave it for an extended period. Removing the water is done by wiping the tabletop with a non-abrasive cloth and drying the top with a soft dry cloth.
It is not advisable to play ping pong on a wet table for the following reasons.
- Water may damage the tabletop surface.
- Water may damage the ping pong ball and paddles.
- Water may affect the ball’s bounce, speed, and spin off the wet surface.
Sanding down an outdoor ping pong table from time to time helps to keep the surface even and smooth. Cracks may be filled with putty, and the surface can be repainted. This maintenance results in a better playing experience and a longer lifespan if the table gets wet.
Protecting A Ping Pong Table From All Weather Conditions
Rainwater is not the only weather condition that can affect the lifespan of an outdoor ping pong table. Direct exposure to harsh sunlight, high humidity, frost, snow, hail, and temperature fluctuations may all have adverse effects.
Folding or covering the ping pong table may also protect it from these weather conditions. Leaves and dust may also collect on the table and cause possible damage. Removing leaves regularly and dusting an outdoor ping pong table will protect it.
Conclusion
An outdoor ping pong table can get wet due to the composition of its tabletop as well as the material making up the frame and legs. Over time, wetness on the table’s surface will affect its longevity. Protecting an outdoor ping pong table from all weather conditions, including rain, can help extend its lifespan and keep it optimally efficient.
