How To Take Pool Table Apart? Learn The Simple Steps Now

If you have a pool table in your home, then there may be times when you need to disassemble it. Whether you’re moving homes or simply rearranging the space, knowing how to take a pool table apart is an essential skill to have.

Pool tables can appear daunting at first glance, with their heavy frames and complex mechanisms. However, with the right guidance, taking one apart can actually be quite simple.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step so that you can safely and confidently break down your pool table. By following these straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to quickly dismantle your table and prepare it for transportation or storage.

“By learning how to take a pool table apart, you’ll not only save time and energy but also ensure that your table remains in good condition.”

Although pool tables are durable items, they do require proper care and maintenance. This includes regular cleaning and occasional disassembly as needed. So whether you’re a seasoned billiards player or new to the game, read on to learn how to take a pool table apart like a pro!

Clear The Area Around the Pool Table

Remove Furniture and Decorations

The first thing to do before taking a pool table apart is to clear the area around it. This means removing anything that may be in the way, including furniture and decorations that are close by. Move any couches, chairs, or tables that could get damaged during the disassembly process. Remember, you will need ample space to work, so consider moving items out of the room altogether.

If there are any wall hangings, artwork, or other decorations near the table, take them down. Store them safely out of the way where they won’t accidentally get bumped or broken. Additionally, if any rugs are on the floor beneath the table, roll them up and move them out of the way as well. You’ll need a clear path to maneuver the different parts of the table, so ensure there are no obstacles in your way.

Sweep and Clean the Area

After clearing the area around the pool table, sweep the entire space. Use a broom and dustpan or vacuum cleaner to pick up excess debris, dirt, and dust from the floor. Take extra care when cleaning around the pool table because even small pieces of grit can damage its felt surface.

Once you’ve swept the area, give it a thorough wipe down with a clean cloth to eliminate any lingering dirt or grime. Finally, inspect the area, paying special attention to the flooring. If necessary, make any required repairs to the floorboards, carpet, or tiling. A level playing field is essential for reassembling the table later without any bumps or lumps.

Taking a pool table apart is no small feat, but by clearing the area around the table and cleaning it thoroughly beforehand, you’ll make the process more straightforward and enjoyable. The next step is disassembling the table piece by piece with precision and care.

“Cleanliness is not just next to Godliness; it’s a way to preserve your equipment.” -Buzz Williams

Remove The Pockets And Rails

Remove Screws From Rails

The first step in taking a pool table apart is to remove the rails. Remove the screws from the rails with a screwdriver or an electric drill. You will need to take care not to lose any of these screws as they are essential when you reassemble the pool table.

Detach Pockets From Rails

Next, detach the pockets from the rails. Some pockets may be screwed onto the table using small wood screws. In this case, use a screwdriver to remove them. Others may be held on simply by tension springs. To remove these pockets simply push them up and out of their holders.

Remove Bolts From Rails

If your rails have bolts securing them to the table, you will need to remove these next. These bolts can typically be found at each end of the rail system. Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts until you can easily pull the rails away from the table surface.

Remove Rails From Table

You’re almost there! Now that the bolts have been removed, it’s time to take the rails off the table completely. This part should be done carefully to avoid damaging your table or injuring yourself. Gently lift up the rails one section at a time and set them aside somewhere safe where you won’t trip over them accidentally. Once all the rails have been removed, the playing surface of the pool table should be visible.

“Taking apart a pool table for moving is something you must do properly if you want your table to look its best when reassembled.”

-brunswickbilliards.com

Loosen The Screws Of The Slate

If you’re planning on moving your pool table to a new location, or simply removing it for some other reason, you’ll need to take apart the various components of the table first. One of these components is the slate bed that sits beneath the felt surface and provides a flat playing field. To remove this slate from the table, you need to loosen the screws that hold it in place.

Use A Socket Wrench

The screws holding the slate in place are usually located along the edges of the table frame, both on the long sides and short ends. You can use a socket wrench with a properly sized socket to loosen these screws. In most cases, a 9/16-inch socket will do the trick. It’s important to avoid using an adjustable wrench since it might slip off the screws, resulting in damage to the table itself.

You should also be careful not to strip out any of the screw heads while trying to loosen them. If a screw seems particularly stubborn, try spraying a small amount of penetrating oil onto it before attempting to loosen it again. This should make it easier to get the screw started without damaging the threads or head.

Loosen Screws on One Side

To begin the process of removing the slate, start by loosening just one side of screws at a time. Take care to keep the slack even between all screws along each side. Once you’ve removed the screws, gently push up on that side of the slate to lift it slightly off the table frame. Repeat the same process on the corresponding side of the table until the entire slate has been freed from its moorings.

Keep in mind that the slate used in pool tables is extremely heavy. Depending on the size of your table, the weight of the slate alone can range from several hundred to over a thousand pounds. That’s why it’s essential to take every safety precaution possible when handling and transporting the slate. It’s always best to have at least two people available to help lift it from the table and move it to its new location.

Now that you know how to loosen the screws of the slate on your pool table, you’ll be one step closer to removing this piece of furniture altogether. Remember to exercise caution when working with heavy components like the slate, and always enlist the help of one or more friends to make the job go smoothly. With a little planning and effort, you’ll soon have your pool table safely dismantled and ready for transport.

Detach The Slate From The Frame

If you’re moving or renovating your home, taking apart your pool table can be a time-consuming process. However, by following the right steps, you can make this task easier and more efficient. One of the first things you’ll need to do is detach the slate from the frame.

Remove Screws From Other Side

The slate on a billiards table is usually held in place by screws. To remove it, start by looking for the screws on the other side of the frame. Use a drill or screwdriver to unscrew them carefully while someone else holds each piece securely. Once you have removed all the screws, lift up one end of the slate enough to allow you to grab hold of it properly with both hands. With any luck, it will slide effortlessly out from under the felt on top of the table and come apart without breaking.

It’s worth noting that the screws may be located somewhere else depending on how your pool table was built. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to get an idea of what you’re dealing with before attempting anything, as some tables require specialized tools.

Place Slate on Blanket or Table

If possible, place the slate pieces on a blanket or table directly next to where they were attached. This will help keep them in order, prevent confusion, and avoid damage. Using something soft like a blanket can also ensure the slate doesn’t break if accidentally dropped.

Repeat for Other Slate Pieces

If your pool table has multiple slate pieces, go through the same process we just described for each of them. Carefully unscrew the bolts holding them in place, then gently lift and lay down each piece. Make sure to mark each piece so you know which part goes back where. It’s also a good idea to cover them with blankets or lines to avoid any scratches during transport.

Remove Felt from Frame

The last step in the process is removing the felt on top of the frame. This can be done easily by loosening it gently and then pulling back one end until it comes off entirely. Depending on how old your pool table is, the felt could be quite worn or even torn, so you should use care when taking it off not to damage the wood underneath.

• Pro tip: For best results, work slowly and ask for help if you need it. Taking apart a pool table solo can be difficult and risky, especially if you’re dealing with heavy slate pieces.
• Expert Advice: “Having worked as a professional pool player and technician myself for many years, I have seen lots of amateur efforts to take apart a pool table go wrong. If in doubt call an expert.” – Steve Auld, ex-professional Pool Player

“A failure is only the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently” – Henry Ford

Dismantle The Legs Of The Pool Table

Detach Legs From Frame

The first step to take when dismantling a pool table is to detach the legs from the frame. You will need a socket wrench or pliers and an assistant to help lift and hold the weight of the table while you work.

To begin, locate the bolts that secure each leg to the frame. Use your tool of choice to loosen each bolt, being careful not to strip them in the process. Once they are loose enough, ask your assistant to help you lift one side of the table off the ground while you remove the bolts completely. Lower that side of the table back down to the ground and repeat the process on the other side until all four legs have been disconnected from the frame.

Remove Screws and Bolts

Once you have detached the legs from the frame, it’s time to remove any additional screws and bolts that may be holding the table together. This will likely include screws securing the rails, pockets, and felt as well as any other hardware that needs to be taken apart for transportation.

To do this, use your toolkit to carefully remove each screw or bolt, taking care not to lose any small pieces or hardware along the way. Keep all screws and bolts organized in a container or bag to ensure nothing gets lost during transport.

Label and Store Leg Pieces

Now that all the necessary parts have been separated, it’s time to label and store them properly. Start by labeling each piece with masking tape or another type of marker indicating its location on the table and what type of hardware should be used to reattach it later.

You can also use bags or plastic containers to keep the different pieces separate and organized. Be sure to store all of the hardware and small pieces together with their corresponding parts so that nothing gets lost or misplaced during transportation.

“Taking apart a pool table can seem daunting, but it’s actually fairly straightforward if you have the right tools and knowledge. Just take your time, work carefully, and label everything, and you’ll be able to transport your table safely in no time.” – Dave Hall, Owner of Triangle Billiards

Label And Store The Pool Table Parts

If you need to move or store your pool table, it is essential that you know how to take it apart properly. Disassembling a pool table can be daunting because of the many parts and pieces involved. But with proper planning and organization, you can disassemble your pool table without any hassle.

Use Labels or Markers

The first thing to do when taking apart your pool table is to number each part as you remove them. Use labels or markers to indicate where each piece belongs when reassembling the table later on. This will save you time and effort during the reconstruction process.

If there are any complicated pieces, take photos from different angles before removing them. This way, you’ll have a visual guide of how everything fits together and will help you reassemble the pool table accurately and promptly.

Organize Parts in Storage Containers

All parts must be organized carefully when disassembling your pool table to avoid losing anything. The easiest way to keep track of all components is to use clear plastic bags for smaller items like screws or bolts. For larger cues or rails, use sturdy cardboard boxes or moving blankets.

Sort the labeled pieces by size and category so that they’re easy to find when it’s time to put the pool table back together. This will also make it easier for movers to handle the weight and prevent any accidental damage during transportation.

Store Parts in Dry, Cool Area

Pool tables are made of sensitive materials such as wood, felt, and slate which can warp if stored in humid areas. Therefore, ensure you store the table parts in a cool, dry place away from sunlight exposure. Keeping all the parts off the ground would protect against moisture and prevent damage to pieces and felt.

If you don’t have any suitable storage area, the ideal option is renting a climate-controlled storage container. This container will protect your belongings from extreme temperatures or moisture conditions that can cause warping or damage to parts.

Keep Hardware in Separate Container

A pool table requires some hardware like screws, nails, etc., which are small components that can quickly get lost during transportation or storage. Therefore, it’s wise to keep all the table’s hardware into one plastic bag to avoid misplaced items.

“Labels save time and effort during pool table disassembly because it’s effortless to put them back together.” – Kellman Brown Furniture.

Taking apart a pool table isn’t a one-person job. Always approach this task with a team of people who are willing to assist as it minimizes risks, saves time, and brings fun to work.

Successfully taking apart and storing your pool table requires proper planning and organization. Follow these steps carefully to keep all parts organized, efficiently transport everything, and reassemble a fully functional pool table without much hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions