Disassembling Your Pool Table: A Comprehensive Guide

Disassembling a pool table is a task that might seem daunting, but with the right tools, preparation, and a systematic approach, it’s manageable. Whether you’re moving, re-carpeting, or simply need to store your pool table, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you do it safely and efficiently. Attempting to move it without disassembly can cause damage to the table or injury to yourself. So, follow these instructions carefully.

Why Disassemble Your Pool Table?

Before diving into the process, let’s understand why disassembly is necessary:

* **Moving:** Pool tables are heavy and bulky. Disassembly makes them easier to transport.
* **Storage:** Storing a disassembled table requires less space.
* **Repairs/Renovations:** Disassembly provides access for repairs, re-felting, or room renovations.
* **Preventing Damage:** Moving a fully assembled pool table significantly increases the risk of damage to the frame, legs, or slate.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Gathering the necessary tools beforehand will streamline the disassembly process. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

* **Screwdrivers:** A set of screwdrivers, including Phillips head and flathead, in various sizes. The size you will need most is a #2 Phillips head screwdriver.
* **Wrench Set:** A set of wrenches, typically adjustable or socket wrenches, to remove bolts.
* **Socket Set:** Socket wrenches of various sizes.
* **Staple Remover or Pliers:** To remove staples holding the felt in place.
* **Level:** To ensure the table is reassembled correctly.
* **Drill/Driver (Optional):** A power drill with screwdriver bits can speed up the process.
* **Safety Glasses:** To protect your eyes from staples and debris.
* **Gloves:** To protect your hands.
* **Moving Blankets or Padding:** To protect the components during transport and storage.
* **Tape and Marker:** For labeling parts and hardware.
* **Digital Camera or Smartphone:** To take pictures during disassembly for reference.
* **Stud Finder:** To help locate the frame studs behind the felt when you are removing the staples holding the felt down.
* **Cardboard or Plastic Wrap:** To protect the slate.
* **Helper(s):** Pool tables are heavy. Having at least one or two helpers is essential, especially when handling the slate.

Step-by-Step Disassembly Guide

Follow these steps carefully to disassemble your pool table:

Step 1: Preparation and Safety

* **Clear the Area:** Ensure you have ample space around the pool table to move and work comfortably. Remove any obstacles.
* **Protect the Floor:** Place moving blankets or padding around the table to protect your flooring from scratches or damage.
* **Safety First:** Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from staples, debris, and sharp edges.

Step 2: Remove the Pockets

* **Inspect the Pockets:** Examine how the pockets are attached to the table. Some are screwed in, while others are bolted or stapled.
* **Unscrew or Unbolt:** Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws or bolts securing the pockets. Place the hardware in a labeled bag to avoid confusion during reassembly.
* **Remove Stapled Pockets:** If the pockets are stapled, use a staple remover or pliers to carefully remove the staples. Be gentle to avoid tearing the felt.
* **Set Aside:** Once the pockets are detached, set them aside in a safe place.

Step 3: Remove the Rails

* **Locate Rail Bolts:** Look for bolts underneath the table, attaching the rails to the slate. These are typically located along the inner edge of the table.
* **Loosen the Bolts:** Use a wrench or socket wrench to loosen the bolts. Don’t remove them completely yet.
* **Support the Rails:** Have a helper support the rail as you fully remove the bolts. Pool table rails can be surprisingly heavy, and you want to avoid dropping them.
* **Remove Rails Carefully:** Carefully detach each rail and set it aside on a padded surface. Label each rail with its position (e.g., “Head Rail,” “Foot Rail,” “Side Rail”) to simplify reassembly.
* **Bag the Hardware:** Put all bolts and washers into a clearly labeled bag or container. This is crucial for easy reassembly.

Step 4: Remove the Felt

This is one of the trickiest parts of the disassembly process and should be done with care, especially if you plan to reuse the felt.

* **Determine Attachment Method:** The felt is usually attached to the slate with staples or glue. Stapled felt is more common.
* **Remove Staples (If Applicable):** If the felt is stapled, use a staple remover or pliers to carefully remove each staple. Start at one corner and work your way around the table. Pull the felt gently as you remove the staples to avoid tearing it.
* **Removing Glued Felt:** If the felt is glued, this step becomes more complicated. Gently pull up a corner of the felt. If it’s lightly glued, you may be able to peel it off slowly and carefully. If it’s heavily glued, you may need to use a heat gun to soften the adhesive. Be cautious not to damage the felt or the slate. If the felt is very tightly glued, and you plan to refelt anyway, you can carefully cut the felt around the edges of the slate, leaving a small border. Be extremely careful not to scratch the slate with your blade. The existing border can then be used as a guide for gluing the new felt.
* **Roll the Felt:** Once the felt is detached, carefully roll it up to prevent creases or damage. Store it in a clean, dry place.

Step 5: Remove the Slate

* **Prepare for Weight:** The slate is the heaviest part of the pool table. Each piece can weigh hundreds of pounds, so having multiple helpers is crucial.
* **Locate Slate Screws:** Look for screws around the perimeter and in the center of each slate piece. These screws attach the slate to the frame.
* **Remove Screws:** Use a screwdriver or drill to remove all the screws holding the slate in place. Place the screws in a labeled bag.
* **Lift the Slate:** With your helpers, carefully lift one slate piece at a time. Lift evenly to avoid cracking or damaging the slate. Use a slow, controlled motion.
* **Protect the Slate:** Place each slate piece on a padded surface or wrap it in cardboard or plastic wrap to protect it from scratches or chips.
* **Number the Slates:** Clearly label each slate piece (e.g., “Slate 1,” “Slate 2,” “Slate 3”) to ensure they are reassembled in the correct order. This is crucial because the slates are often matched to each other to create a perfectly flat surface.

Step 6: Disassemble the Frame

* **Inspect the Frame:** Examine how the frame is assembled. It may be held together with screws, bolts, or brackets.
* **Remove Fasteners:** Use the appropriate tools to remove the screws, bolts, or brackets. Place the hardware in a labeled bag.
* **Detach the Legs:** Most pool table legs are attached to the frame with bolts or screws. Remove these fasteners and carefully detach the legs. Label each leg with its corresponding corner.
* **Disassemble the Frame:** Depending on the frame design, you may be able to disassemble it into smaller pieces. This makes it easier to transport and store. If the frame is a single unit, simply wrap it in moving blankets for protection.

Step 7: Inventory and Organization

* **Check the Inventory:** After disassembly, ensure you have all the parts and hardware. Compare the components to your photographs or diagrams to verify nothing is missing.
* **Organize Hardware:** Keep all hardware (screws, bolts, washers, etc.) in labeled bags or containers. This will save you time and frustration during reassembly.
* **Protect Components:** Wrap all components (rails, legs, frame pieces) in moving blankets or padding to protect them from damage during transport or storage.
* **Store Parts Properly:** Store all parts in a dry, secure location where they will be protected from moisture, extreme temperatures, and pests.

Tips for a Smooth Disassembly

* **Take Pictures:** Before you start, take detailed pictures of the pool table from different angles. These photos will be invaluable during reassembly.
* **Label Everything:** Use tape and a marker to label all parts and hardware. Be as specific as possible.
* **Keep Hardware Organized:** Store hardware in labeled bags or containers. Group similar items together.
* **Work with a Helper:** Pool tables are heavy and awkward. Having at least one helper is essential, especially when handling the slate.
* **Be Patient:** Disassembly can take time, especially if you’re doing it for the first time. Don’t rush the process.
* **Consult the Manual:** If you have the original pool table manual, refer to it for specific instructions and diagrams.

Potential Problems and Solutions

* **Stripped Screws:** If you encounter a stripped screw, try using a rubber band or steel wool between the screwdriver and the screw head to get a better grip. As a last resort, a screw extractor can be used.
* **Stuck Bolts:** If a bolt is stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen it again.
* **Damaged Felt:** If you accidentally tear the felt, you may need to replace it. Consider re-felting the table during reassembly.
* **Cracked Slate:** Handle the slate with extreme care to avoid cracking it. If a slate piece does crack, it may need to be professionally repaired or replaced.

Reassembly Considerations

While this guide focuses on disassembly, it’s important to consider the reassembly process as well. Here are a few tips:

* **Keep the Slates Labeled:** The slates must be reassembled in their original order. Their positions are specially leveled at the factory to ensure a perfectly flat plane for play. If they are reinstalled in the incorrect order, the table will not be level.
* **Leveling:** When reassembling the table, use a level to ensure that the frame and slate are perfectly level. Shims can be used to make minor adjustments.
* **Professional Help:** If you’re not comfortable reassembling the pool table yourself, consider hiring a professional. They have the experience and tools to ensure the job is done correctly.

Conclusion

Disassembling a pool table requires careful planning, the right tools, and a systematic approach. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and efficiently disassemble your pool table for moving, storage, or repairs. Remember to take your time, stay organized, and prioritize safety. With patience and attention to detail, you’ll be able to complete the task successfully. If you don’t feel comfortable undertaking this process yourself, always consider hiring a professional pool table technician.