Moving a pool table can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re just a beginner. Whether you’re relocating your table to a new room or a new home, understanding the process is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of moving your pool table. From the tools you’ll need, to disassembling, transporting, and reassembling, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Your Pool Table
Before you start unscrewing anything, it’s essential to know what kind of table you’re dealing with. Pool tables mainly fall into two categories: slate and non-slate.
Slate Pool Tables: These are the heavy hitters, quite literally. Slate tables are made with a thick, heavy stone slab under the felt, which provides a perfectly flat and stable playing surface. They’re incredibly heavy and require careful dismantling and moving.
Non-Slate Pool Tables: Often more affordable and lightweight, non-slate tables use materials like MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) instead of stone.
Preparation for Moving
Before you start disassembling your pool table, there are a few key preparations you need to make. This stage is all about planning and ensuring you have everything necessary for a smooth move.
- Gather Tools and Materials: You’ll need a set of tools for disassembly and reassembly. This typically includes a staple puller, flathead screwdriver, socket wrench, power drill, and a set of labeled bags or containers to keep small parts organized. If you’re moving a slate table, you might also need a dolly or a lifting strap to handle the weight.
- Prepare the Room and Path: Clear a path from where the table currently is to where it’s going. Measure doorways and staircases to make sure everything fits.
- Enlist Help or Consider Professional Movers: Don’t underestimate the weight of a pool table. For slate tables, you’ll need at least a few strong helpers. If you’re not comfortable with the process or if your table is particularly high-end, hiring professional movers who specialize in pool tables can be a wise idea.
Disassembling the Pool Table
Disassembling your pool table is not just about taking it apart; it’s about doing so in a way that ensures easy and safe reassembly later. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
- Removing the Pockets: Start by removing the pockets. This might involve unfastening screws or staples, depending on your table’s design. Be gentle to avoid tearing the leather or fabric.
- Taking Off the Rails: Next, unscrew the rails from the table. They are usually attached with bolts or screws.
- Removing the Felt: The felt is either stapled or glued to the table surface. If it’s stapled, carefully remove each staple with a staple remover. If it’s glued, gently pull it back to avoid ripping.
- Taking Apart the Slate: This is the most challenging part, especially for slate tables. Slate can be in one large piece or multiple pieces, and it’s incredibly heavy. Remove the screws or bolts holding the slate in place. You’ll need a few people to help lift it. Label each piece of slate if there are multiple, as they need to be reinstalled in the same position.
Throughout the disassembly process, keep all parts, screws, and bolts organized and labeled. It makes reassembly much easier and prevents the panic of missing pieces.
Moving the Pool Table
This stage requires careful handling and a bit of strategy, especially with heavy components like the slate.
- Moving the Slate: If your table has a slate top, it’s the heaviest part to move. Use a dolly or a sturdy cart to transport it. If you’re moving it up or down stairs, it’s crucial to have enough helpers to manage the weight safely. Avoid twisting or turning the slate, as it can crack under stress.
- Handling the Frame and Rails: These parts are usually less heavy. Make sure you have a good grip and watch out for any protruding bolts or screws. If your table’s frame is particularly large or cumbersome, consider removing legs or other detachable parts to make it more manageable.
- Safety Tips and Techniques: Safety should be your top priority. Use proper lifting techniques – bend at your knees, not your back, and keep the load close to your body. Communicate clearly with your helpers to coordinate movements, especially when navigating through doorways or stairs.
- Protecting the Parts: Wrap each part in moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect it from scratches or damage during transit. This is especially important for delicate parts like the rails and the slate.
Reassembling the Pool Table
After safely transporting your pool table to its new location, the final step is reassembling it.
- Reconstructing the Frame: Start by reconstructing the frame and legs of the table. Make sure all connections are tight and secure.
- Placing and Securing the Slate: Carefully place the slate back onto the frame. If your table has multiple slate pieces, ensure they are positioned correctly as labeled during disassembly. Once in place, bolt the slate down.
- Re-stretching the Felt: Laying the felt back down can be tricky. It needs to be stretched tightly over the slate and secured. If the felt is old or damaged, this might be a good time to replace it. A smooth, wrinkle-free felt surface is crucial for a good playing experience.
- Attaching the Rails and Pockets: Finally, reattach the rails and pockets. Ensure they align correctly and are securely fastened.
- Leveling the Table: Once assembled, use a carpenter’s level to ensure the table is perfectly flat. You may need to adjust the legs or add shims under the slate for fine adjustments.
Reassembling a pool table can be a time-consuming process, but it’s worth the effort. Taking your time to ensure everything is done correctly will pay off with many hours of enjoyable gameplay.
