There’s nothing quite like relaxing with your mates and playing a few rounds of pool. It’s one of the most challenging, yet enjoyable indoor sports. But what happens when you move and want to take your prized possession to your new home? Typically, slate pool tables weigh over three hundred kilos, so moving one can seem like a difficult task. But with this simple guide, it doesn’t have to be.
Should you move the pool table yourself?
Attempting to move the pool table yourself can save on costs. Before doing so, however, it’s important to consider the effort, time, investment and logistics involved (especially if it is slate-based). If moving it yourself is not feasible, there are two key options. You can either leave the pool table and sell it with the house, or you can call a removalist. This is your best choice. Simply contact our team today for an online quote.
If you decide to move it yourself, however, here are some useful tips.
Considerations when moving your pool table
If you do decide to move it yourself, there are a few important things to consider. Firstly, if the table has a slate base, you will need a few friends to help you disassemble and move it. Secondly, you will need to rent a light truck or ute to transport it. When you consider the cost of truck rental, a removalist is far more viable. And, factors such as stairs, hallways, door widths, room sizes and available parking are also important considerations.
Steps to disassemble your pool table
To move a slate pool table safely, it must be disassembled first. This involves removing the felt, rails, pockets and legs. To do so, you will need the following tools:
- Needle-nose pliers or staple remover
- Socket spanners
- Rechargeable drill
- Screwdrivers
- Carpenter’s level, and;
- Plenty of packing material (i.e. blankets, packing tape, bubble wrap and tarps for weatherproofing)
#1 Remove the accessories – Remove the table’s rails and pockets. After doing so, wrap the pool table’s accessories securely.
#2 Remove the felt tabletop – Using a staple remover, remove the felt top. Then, carefully fold and wrap it for easy reassembly later.
#3 Remove the slate – If your pool table is slate based, carefully remove the slate. This must be done with the utmost care. Then, carefully wrap and appropriately label each slab. This is crucial, as they should go back exactly as they came out. Be sure to handle the slate pieces very carefully, as they are made of an extremely soft stone and may chip.
When you remove the slabs, you will feel the slate’s full weight. Depending on the type of slate, the slabs can weigh up to a massive 450 kilograms (while most weigh between 70 and 120 kilograms).
#4 Remove the legs – Unscrew and remove each of the table’s legs, and wrap them carefully.
#5 Ensure careful transportation – A pool table is extremely fragile, so ensure you travel very slowly and carefully. It’s important to take special care when going over speed bumps, driveways, gutters or any unstable road surface.
Can you move the table without disassembly?
Yes, this is sometimes possible. However, it depends largely on the distance, how many people can assist you and if the area is free of access difficulties. In this case, you can move the table as a whole, after removing the legs. Place the table on its side and lift carefully. Ensure your path is free of obstacles and move the table using either furniture sliders or a trolley.
If you aren’t confident in removing the pool table yourself, call or email the team at JD Movers. Our helpful team can give you a free quote, so you can choose the most cost-effective option.