How To Move A Pool Table To Another House – Moving a pool table to a new house can be challenging, but it’s not as difficult as you might think. With the right preparation and attention, you can move a pool table without much hassle. This guide is here to simplify the process for you to move a pool table. It is not recommended to move a pool table by yourself, so it’s a good idea to enlist the help of friends for the heavy lifting. Although it’s possible to complete this task without professional assistance, considering the option of hiring a professional moving company could make things much easier.
List Of The Steps
Here is the complete list of the steps to move the pool table –
Remove The Pockets
All standard pool tables typically have a total of six pockets: four in the corners and two on the sides. The way these pockets are attached can vary by manufacturer, but the most common method is to use staples on the underside of the table. To remove the staples, it’s best to use a staple puller. If you don’t have one available, you can carefully remove the staples using a flathead screwdriver.
Detach The Rails
You can begin detaching the rails now that the pockets have been removed. Different manufacturers may use various methods for this, but the most common approach involves bolting the rails to the table. To disconnect the rails, use a socket wrench. Once detached, you can carefully slide the rails out.
Remove The Felt
Removing the pool table requires careful attention and focus. Improper handling can lead to tears in the felt, resulting in permanent damage. The felt should be secured to the slate underneath using staples along the side edges. To remove the felt, gently pull out the staples with a staple puller, and carefully fold the felt to prevent any damage.
Take Apart the Slate from the Table
The slate of a pool table is very heavy, so it’s important to have assistance during this process. Typically, the slate is screwed into the pool table’s frame and can be unscrewed using a screwdriver or power drill. Be careful not to damage the surface while removing it.
Wrap the Slate in a Moving Blanket
Start by laying a large moving blanket on the floor before you remove the slate from the table. With the help of your assistants, lift the slate from the frame of the pool table and gently place it in the center of the blanket. Make sure the blanket is wide enough to cover the slate completely. If it isn’t, use a second blanket and securely tape both blankets together.
Remove the Legs
Generally, the legs of a pool table are screwed onto the bottom of the frame, making them easy to remove with a power drill or screwdriver. Have your helpers support the weight of the frame while you take off the legs to prevent it from falling. Once all the legs are removed, place them and the frame on the floor.
Wrap The Frame In A Moving Blanket
Wrap the pool table frame in a moving blanket and secure it with tape before loading everything into your moving vehicle. Do the same for each of the legs, ensuring the blankets are securely fastened with tape.
Loading the Slate, Frame, and Legs Into the Moving Vehicle
Now that the slate, frame, and legs are wrapped and ready for transport, it’s time to load them into the moving vehicle. Start by loading the slate, making sure it is placed on a flat surface. Next, gently place the frame of the pool table on top of the slate to avoid any damage. Finally, position the legs either on top of the frame or to the side.
Conclusion
Moving a pool table is not an easy task. It is a process that tests your strength, patience, and sometimes even friendships. After navigating the complicated steps of disassembly, careful packing, cautious transport, and reassembly, you’ve accomplished something significant. This is not just about moving a piece of furniture; it’s about preserving a source of joy, competition, and camaraderie. Take a moment to acknowledge your effort and the assistance of those who helped you.
The next game you play will be more than just another round of pool; it will be a celebration of what you have completed. Moving a pool table presents challenges both for personal safety and the table’s integrity. It involves managing heavy components, which can lead to injury or damage. High-value or intricate tables pose even greater risks. To minimize these dangers, it’s advisable to consult or hire professional pool table movers. They have the expertise, equipment, and insurance to ensure a protected move for you and your premises.
FAQs
Can a slate pool table be moved without disassembly?
No, you should not attempt to move a slate pool table without disassembling it. The slate is heavy and fragile; moving it as a whole can result in cracks or breaks in the slate slab. Many experts, including professional pool table movers, recommend disassembling the table before any relocation.
What precautions should be taken when moving a pool table to ensure the slate does not break?
First, remove the table’s felt and rails before handling the slate pieces. Wrap the slate in thick moving blankets or pads for protection. Always carry each slate piece flat and avoid tilting them. Ensure that enough people are available to evenly support the weight during the move.
Is it possible to relocate a pool table without professional help, and what are the risks?
While it is possible to move your pool table by yourself, doing so carries significant risks. You may damage the table frame, felt, or slate, or even injure yourself due to the heavy lifting involved. Professional pool table movers possess the right tools and expertise to move tables safely, providing an exceptional service for relocation.
