Pool Table Knowledge

When we think of moving “Rec Rooms” or “Man Caves”, one of the first components to come to mind is a Pool Table. Here are some key points to consider when making the decision to include a third party service like Custom Movers Services.

Servicing a Pool Table can be costly:  First, pool tables can vary in size and weight. They can range from 6′ to 10′ long, and weigh up to 2,500 #.  They require 2, and sometimes 3- man teams of experienced technicians to properly service.

The disassemble of a Pool table:  The first step is to unfasten the 6 pockets exposing the bolts holding the pool table rails in place. The rails are usually attached as one unit, taking 2 men to flip and simultaneously disconnect them together.

Removal of the felt is next. It can be either stapled, glued, or sometimes both. It must be removed slowly around the edge of the table, lifting the felt carefully so not to stretch or tear the fabric.  The most difficult part is detaching and lifting of the slates.  The slate is attached to the table frame with screws that are filled in with plaster or beeswax. With 2 to 3 men, the slates are carefully dislodged from the frame, and placed in slated crates for easy and safe mobility.  The final step is the disassembly of the legs.  Again, a 2- man team is necessary, as the table must be flipped to allow for the removal of the legs.  The entire process to disassemble a table usually takes about 1 1/2 – 2 hours with 2 experienced technicians.

Pool Table slates, and why we crate them:  Pool tables have either 1, 2 or 3 pieces of slate located directly under colored felt that creates the playing surface. The slate is extremely heavy and very fragile. If it is bumped or dropped, it will shatter  It is very important to have the slate properly and carefully removed from the table frame, and then protected in a wooden crate during a move. Each piece must be crated individually to ensure the crate can be lifted. Have them in separate crates allows for easy handling in addition to preventing possible injury because of their wieght.

After the legs have been reassembled the slates are set in place.  A carpenters level is necessary to ensure a level surface in all directions. Beside their adjustable feet, wooden wedges or even playing cards are used to “shim” the table for precision balance. This is why a pool table should never be repositioned after the service is completed.

Each piece of slate must be leveled. The level must remain on the table until all pieces have been secured. All holes and seams are then refilled with plaster or beeswax. If at any time the level is disturbed, it must be redone.  At this time the felt is installed. It must be rolled onto the table to form a completely smooth surface.  The felt is adjusted, stretched and secured around the pockets.

The final steps are reattaching the rails and pockets. The level of the playing surface and the felt is checked a final time once the job is completed.  This entire process can take twice as long as the disassembly , anywhere from 2 to 5 hours. Please note; pool tables can become unbalanced over time due to floors settling. Additional adjustments may be needed after the table has acclimated to its new environment.

New felt for the table:  If the felt for the pool table has no “wear” or thin spots, and no tears or slits; it can be reused.  If there is noticeable wear and tear”, or the shipper wants to change the quality or color of the fabric; the table can be refelted.  Refelting is an additional cost, but a nice touch to offer someone who enjoys the game.

Custom Movers Services has a network of experienced, professional technicians and Pool Table specialists than can make the transition of your shippers “Man Cave Centerpiece” a painless and successful experience.  Call us at 800-514-6927, or visit us on the Web at www.custommoversservices.com for more details and special pricing.