How to Disassemble a Pool Table for Moving

Just like the bulky pieces of furniture in your home, pool tables are incredibly heavy and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces like doorways, hallways, or staircases. If you’re moving with a pool table, it’s advisable to disassemble it into smaller components to make it easier to move. Taking it apart reduces the risk of getting stuck or damaging your home’s structure. Besides, disassembly minimizes the weight of individual components, making the pool table safer to handle and reducing the risk of injury during transport.

In this guide, the seasoned junk haulers at The Junk Tycoons outline the 5 steps to disassemble a pool table for moving. Before we get into it, here’s a list of the tools you’ll need to get the job done.

Flathead screwdriver
Wrench
Drill with a screwdriver bit
Staple remover
Eye protection tools

Step 1: Remove The Ball Pockets

Most ball pockets are either screwed or glued on. For screwed pockets, use a socket wrench to remove the screws holding the pocket in place. If the pockets are glued, use a putty knife to carefully pry the pocket loose. Take care not to damage the surrounding slate.

Step 2: Detach The Rails

Once you’ve removed the ball pockets, locate the rail bolts. These are typically found on the underside of the rails, where they connect to the table frame. Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to remove the bolts, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions or a disassembly guide specific to your pool table model. Support the rail as you remove the last bolt to prevent it from falling and causing damage.

Step 3: Remove The Felt

The felt can either be stapled or glued. For stapled felt, use a staple remover to carefully remove the staples holding the felt down. Removing glued felt is more delicate, so you should do it with a lot of care. Slowly and gently peel the felt off the slate, starting from a corner and working your way inward. Apply heat with a hairdryer if necessary to loosen the adhesive.

Step 4: Lift Off The Slate

This step requires multiple people due to the weight of the slate. Make sure you clear the area around the table to create a safe space to lower the slate. You should evenly distribute weight among helpers, supporting the slate from underneath. Next, lift the slate carefully and slowly in a coordinated manner, placing it on a sturdy, level surface.

Step 5: Disassemble The Legs

Finally, locate the bolts or brackets that connect the legs to the frame. Use a wrench or socket set to loosen and remove these fasteners. Carefully detach the legs and set them aside with the other disassembled components.

When To Call The Experts For Help

Disassembling a pool table can be physically demanding and requires caution. If you’re unsure about any steps or don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, consider hiring professional movers experienced in pool table handling or a junk hauler to help you out. These experts have the necessary tools and equipment to disassemble your pool table and put it back together. Do not risk damaging your pool table or getting injured. Call the pros if you need help.