How to Level a Pool Table: 14 Steps
A well-leveled pool table is crucial for an enjoyable game. An unbalanced table can ruin your shots, making it difficult to practice and improve your skills. Fortunately, leveling a pool table is not as challenging as it may seem. Through the following 14 steps, you can ensure that your table provides a fair and smooth playing surface.
1. Gather the necessary tools: Before beginning, gather a quality carpenter’s level, shims (thin pieces of wood or cardboard), and an adjustable wrench.
2. Check the initial level of the table: Place your carpenter’s level in the center of the table and check for balance along both the length and width of the surface.
3. Mark any low spots: If you notice any low points in the table, mark them with a sticky note or piece of tape.
4. Determine which legs need adjustment: In most cases, only one or two legs will need adjusting.
5. Locate the adjustable leg screws/features: Depending on your specific pool table, there may be screws or other features that allow for minor adjustments to each leg.
6. Adjust the leg height accordingly: Using your adjustable wrench, adjust each leg’s height in small increments until you have leveled out all low spots.
7. Recheck the table’s level: Once you’ve adjusted the necessary legs, recheck the level with your carpenter’s tool along both axes to ensure a balanced surface.
8. Shim where necessary: If some spots remain uneven after adjusting legs, use shims to compensate for any remaining discrepancies.
9. Repeat steps 1-8 as needed: If further adjustments are needed, repeat these steps until your table is completely level.
10. Check for gaps underneath legs: Ensure there are no gaps between floor and legs after leveling, which could cause instability during play.
11. Recheck periodically: Over time, tables may shift out of alignment due to usage or changes in floor conditions. Periodically recheck your table’s level and make adjustments as needed.
12. Maintain a consistent environment: To keep your table in top condition, maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in its surroundings.
13. Protect the table from external factors: Install rubber pads under the table legs, which can help reduce the impact of vibrations from nearby activities, such as foot traffic or adjacent rooms.
14. Invest in a quality pool table: High-quality tables are designed with precision components and better materials, making them less prone to irregularities and easier to level.
In conclusion, leveling your pool table is essential for an accurate and enjoyable gaming experience. By following these 14 steps, you will ensure that your table remains balanced and ready for action. Keep in mind, maintaining a level playing surface will require periodic checks and adjustments over time.