So, the pool table is your prized asset in the game room, basement, or garage. No doubt about it. But moving it to your own home is not an easy task at all.
In fact, it is probably the heaviest and largest item in your home that you will move. At the same time, it is also one of the most delicate ones. Now, you can hand over the entire process of transfer to professionals. That is the best way for those who do not have the necessary time for this cumbersome task.
In that case, a quick search of the “pool table movers near me” will provide you with a list of some companies that move pool tables. Do keep in mind, this is an expensive process. But if you want to make it a DIY project, you need to know the basics of carpentry and have the right organizing skills.
The reason is, moving a pool table without taking it apart will increase the chances of damage or breakage. This means you have to learn how to disassemble and assemble a pool table in the right manner. In this article, we will take a look at the steps that will answer the question- how to move a pool table?
1. Get the Right Tools and Supplies
Before you start to disassemble a pool table, you need to gather the right tools. Here are some of the necessary tools and supplies that you will need.
- A power drill
- A socket wrench
- A screwdriver
- A staple remover
- Cutting tools
- Shrink-wrap
- Carpenter’s level
- Thick blankets, bubble wrap, packing tape for protective wrapping.
A pool table consists of multiple large and small parts. To make the transfer process smooth, you need the right level of planning and organization.
The best way is to reopen the owner’s manual and find out how every part fits. That way, you will be able to gather sufficient bags or boxes of the right size for storing each item. Keep in mind, the right labeling of the items is also important.
Now, a pool table’s weight can be close to 1000 pounds. The individual parts can weigh up to 400 pounds or even more. So, this is not something a single person can handle. It is necessary to have at least 3 helpers to help you with the packing and moving process.
2. Measure the Exits and Entrances
Before you progress further, measure the doorways, staircases, and passages that the table will need to pass through. This way, you will be able to move the table without damaging it. This will also help you to determine the size of the largest disassembled parts. You can also plan about maneuvering the parts in the right manner in advance.
The other important aspect is to find the right vehicle for transportation. The best way is to rent a pickup truck for the move. There are plenty of moving apps that can help you out in picking the right one. Also, don’t forget to measure the destination as well. It’s easy to get caught up in the current location and making sure you can get it out of there but remember to check the new house too.
3. Taking Apart the Pool Table
One of the first questions that might come to your mind is- how to take apart a pool table?
Without a doubt, this is a process that will need some skill. You need to disassemble the legs, rails, and felt, and assemble them back in the new location.
Here are the steps that you need to follow
- The first step is to remove the ball pockets. These are usually connected by screws or staples. Then, remove the bolts that connect the side rails to the table. Store the pockets and rail in a safe place.
- The next step is to remove the felt. You should be extremely gentle while removing the felt to avoid any damage to the material. If the felt is stapled, it’s easy to remove. In some tables, the felt is glued. In such cases, you need to rip it off carefully.
- Once the felt is removed, you can remove the slate pieces. The slate is a piece of rock and is the heaviest part. It is also brittle and can get damaged easily. Since the slate pieces are matched, damaging even a single piece will need a complete replacement. Remove the connecting screws, and lift the slate off the frame of the table. Wrap the pieces carefully.
- Now, it’s time to remove the legs. Turn the table upside down or on its side and unscrew the legs from the frame.
- If the frame is pre-built, you do not need to disassemble it. If not, you can take them apart for ease of transportation.
- Every connecting hardware that you have removed needs to be carefully cataloged. It is necessary to ensure that not a single screw or bolt goes missing. This will also help you to reassemble the table quickly.
- To prevent damage to the edges of the table, cover them with thick blankets or towels. Use protective cushioning or bubble wrapping to ensure that the parts do not suffer any damage during the move.
4. Reassembling the Pool Table
The only thing harder than disassembly is putting the pool table back together. For this, the best way is to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines about how to set up a pool table. Otherwise, you can simply follow the steps for disassembly in reverse order.
If you have disassembled the frame, start by reattaching the pieces together. Next, connect the pool table legs to the frame. Once this is done, you can place the frame in an upright position.
Then place the slate back on top. Keep in mind, you need to level the state according to the floor. Without a perfectly level surface, the game will be off.
Next, you need to add the felt. The felt has to be perfectly flat and free from any wrinkles or bumps due to air bubbles. A smooth felt is a must for making the perfect shots.
Finally, attach the rails and pockets to make the table ready. Make sure to fill up all the gaps.
Hiring Professional Help to Move Pool Tables
Are you still wondering how to move a pool table in the easiest way?
There are multiple small factors during the move that can have an effect on the performance of the table in the long run. We feel taking help from professional companies that move pool tables is the best way. A reputed pool table mover can make the process simple for you while preventing any damage to your favorite table.
Moreover, moving a pool table will need manpower. If you do not have strong helping hands around you, hiring a professional is the only option.
A specialist can take care of the disassembly and assembly process, while the moving can be handled by packers. This will also give you the time to concentrate on moving other items like fish tanks, pet supplies, and even hot tubs. other important items.
Admittedly, doing it on your own is less expensive. However, if you are not experienced with the process of dismantling a pool table, the task can be overwhelming. Even after disassembly, the components of a table are incredibly heavy. The vulnerable parts like the slate can be difficult to move without professional help.
A professional pool table mover can take the right steps to ensure proper transportation. They can also analyze the table for cracks and arrange the packing accordingly. They are also accustomed to leveling the slate in the right manner. Another option is to follow the middle path. You can disassemble the table on your own and hire a professional team for the movement and reassembly. This will help you to cut down the expenses to some extent.
Do You Really Need to Move the Pool Table?
Before you start planning for the move, think about this. Even though you love your pool table, the cumbersome process of moving it to your new location may not be the best choice.
Considering that the pool table weight is on the higher side, hiring professional movers for a pool table will be expensive. In addition, there will be separate charges for taking it apart and putting the pieces back together. You could even get charged for a moving quote from some companies.
Theoretically, it is possible to do it on your own. Even so, the process will take considerable time, skill, and manpower. Consider whether you have the time and energy to get it done right. Also, you need to consider the safety aspects related to the transfer. You do not want to get anyone injured while handling tools or transporting heavy pieces.
That means you have to consider the effort, logistics, and expenses involved in the entire process. One practical solution is selling the old table and purchasing a new one in the new house. We suggest you consider all the options before deciding how to move a pool table.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to move a pool table is sometimes a job better left to the professionals. While you can do it yourself, some things are more trouble than they’re worth. If you agree, it might be time to hire a moving company. Agoyu helps homeowners get free quotes online to find the most qualified moving companies in your area. Click here to get a free moving quote from Agoyu.
