How to disassemble, move and reassemble a pool table

How to disassemble, move and reassemble a pool table - Pool Table Portfolio
SD Sarah DeFlumeri

Planning The Move

Moving a pool table is not a task that can be accomplished with impulsivity. Like any moving project, it requires planning, forethought and a bit of professional muscle.

Measure and Sketch: Begin by measuring the dimensions of your pool table and the areas through which it will need to move. This includes doorways, stairways, and the final destination area. A sketch or a scaled drawing of your home layout can be helpful in this phase, providing a clear vision of the route you'll need to take so you dont end up bumping into walls or objects in your home.

Tools: Several tools are needed to disassemble and move your pool table. These include a staple puller, flathead screwdriver, socket wrench, safety goggles, moving blankets, and a dolly. It’s crucial to have these prepared ahead of time to ensure a seamless process.

Disassembling The Pool Table

The structural complexity of a pool table makes it a formidable challenge to move as a single piece. Thus, the table needs to be carefully disassembled.

Remove The Pockets: Start by removing the pockets, which are usually attached to the table via staples or screws. A staple puller or flathead screwdriver will be your tool of choice here.

Detach The Rails: Next, detach the rails. These are typically bolted onto the table, requiring a socket wrench for removal. Take care not to apply too much force as it could damage the wood.

Remove The Felt: The felt, or the baize, is either glued or stapled onto the slate. Carefully pull it away from the slate, taking extra care if it's glued to avoid tearing. If it's stapled, a staple puller should do the job smoothly.

Lift Off The Slate: The slate is the heaviest part of a pool table, often weighing in excess of 800 pounds. It can be a single piece or several pieces, depending on the table's design. Remove the screws holding it in place and lift it off very carefully with the help of others.

Disassemble The Legs: The final disassembly step is to take apart the legs. Once the legs are detached, your table is ready for transport.

Moving The Pool Table

With the pool table disassembled, you're ready for the next phase - the actual move.

Wrap The Components: Each disassembled part should be wrapped in a moving blanket for protection. This reduces the chances of scratches or other damage during the move.

Transport With Care: The slate, due to its sheer weight and fragility, should be handled with extreme care. It's advisable to use a dolly for moving it. Other components, such as the frame, legs, and rails, though lighter, still require careful handling to avoid damage.

Reassembling The Pool Table

Once you've moved your pool table to its new location, it's time for reassembly!

pool table installation

Set Up The Frame: Start by setting up the frame in your desired location. Make sure it is perfectly leveled, as this is vital for proper gameplay.

Place The Slate: The slate should be placed onto the frame with the utmost care. Once again, use a level to ensure it's even. The seams between the pieces of slate (if there are multiple) should be filled with a special beeswax or a bonding agent and then smoothed down.

Attach The Felt: Carefully reattach the felt onto the slate, ensuring it is smooth and wrinkle-free. Depending on the original setup, you will either need to staple or glue it down.

Install The Pool Table Rails And Pockets: Finally, install the rails and attach the pockets. Check all bolts and screws for tightness and stability.

The process of moving a pool table, while a little complex, with careful planning, detailed disassembly, handling with care, and proper reassembly will all come together. Much like the artful arrangement of a living space, the relocation of a pool table can be a project. By following this guide, you can ensure your home pool table is moved safely and efficiently to its new spot.

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