You’ve always had space for it, maybe your kids have been asking for it, or maybe it’s always been an option to increase the value of your vacation rental property. Whatever the reason, you’ve decided there’s no better time to be the proud owner of a new pool table.
But there’s one problem: does anyone know how to properly set up a pool table? It’s not for the faint of heart, even if you’re a professional pool player. If you aren’t sure how to assemble a pool table, this guide will help you get the basics down so you can start making memories and honing your pool skills.
Disclaimer on Assembling a Pool Table Yourself
While it is possible to assemble a pool table on your own, it’s not recommended. If you don’t have the experience, the best way forward is to have a professional assemble and install the pool table for you. Expert help ensures that you don’t damage the table in assembly and that it’s safe for consistent use.
What You Need Before You Start
Assembling a pool table yourself will take a minimum of two to four hours. You should also pre-designate where you want the table to go and use that as your workspace. You’ll also want to have some tools ready before you start the installation. Put all of these within arm’s reach:
- Hammer and nails
- Phillips and flat-head screwdriver
- Stapler
- Measuring tape
- Paint scraper
- Leveler
- Utility knife
- Blowtorch
- Scissors
- Glue
- Felt/pool tablecloth
- Billiard table parts
- Beeswax or putty
- Safety goggles
Take a moment to double-check that you have all the table components. It should come with a list of pieces and accessories. You will likely also want to recruit another person to help cut down on time.
Regardless of whether you go it alone or not, you should follow every procedure properly. Professionals typically do pool table assembly, so you want to maintain focus and keep a clean workspace to avoid accidents. Always refer to the user manual if you’re confused or need extra guidance on how to assemble a pool table.
The Table Frame
Once you’ve unpacked the pool table pieces and separated everything, place the table’s frame upside down — make sure this is where you want your table to live!
Some frames come pre-assembled, but if yours doesn’t, check your instruction manual to see how to put it together. Use a screwdriver to attach the legs and leg supports to every corner of your table. Test them to ensure they’re tight and attached before flipping the frame right side up.
Placing and Sealing the Slates
Use your leveler to check that the table is balanced. You can use shims below the legs to raise the height. Find the center of your table with the measuring tape and place the center slate. Put the other two slates next to it on either side and recheck the balance.
Some pool tables have one slate so you can place the piece carefully on the frame. Screw it to your table and make any final leveling adjustments. This step will be significantly more manageable with a second person, as slates are incredibly heavy.
You can use wax or putty to seal the slate joints. For wax, you’ll use the blowtorch to melt your beeswax in the gaps to get the slate to adhere, wait for it to dry, and scrape off any excess wax. The putty method is similar, though putty usually takes a few minutes to dry, while wax can take hours.
Applying the Felt
Cut holes in your panels for the bolts and align the felt with the rails and pockets. Then screw or staple the pockets to secure them to the underside of your pool table. Place the felt from the head side and adhere the cloth in the center of the table. Secure the felt to each side of the table slowly to avoid bumps and wrinkles.
Placing the Rails and Fix Pockets
This part of the assembly can vary, so it’s best to check your manual for specific instructions. Once you secure your rails, you can use more beeswax to smooth out the edges and tighten all the screws and bolts. The table is mostly assembled now; you should only have to place the pockets on each corner and screw them in place.
Find Your New Pool Table at Billiard Factory
Now that you know how to properly set up a pool table, are you feeling inspired to pick up a pool table for yourself? Billiard Factory has the highest quality pool tables and billiard products at a fair price — and we can help you install them. Get in touch with us today and see what’s in store for you!