5 Easy Steps to Level a Billiard Table

Man leveling a billiard table
$title$

Leveling a billiard table is essential for precise and enjoyable gameplay. An uneven table can affect the trajectory of the balls, making it difficult to accurately predict their path. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an occasional player, ensuring your table is properly leveled will significantly enhance your billiard experience. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process to level a billiard table effortlessly.

Before beginning the leveling process, gather the necessary tools: a level, preferably a machinist’s level, a spanner wrench, and some shims. The machinist’s level offers the highest precision, ensuring accurate measurements. Once you have the tools ready, proceed to assess the levelness of your billiard table. Place the level on the playing surface along the length and width of the table, ensuring it rests directly on the slate. Observe the level’s vials and note any deviations from the center line.

To adjust the table’s level, locate the leveling bolts or screws, typically positioned at each corner of the table’s base. Using the spanner wrench, carefully adjust the bolts by fractional turns, observing the level as you do. Rotate the bolts either clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the direction required for leveling. Once the table appears level along its length, reposition the level across the table’s width and repeat the adjustment process. Continue making fine adjustments until the level indicates a perfectly level surface. To ensure accuracy, rotate the level on the playing surface to check for any variations.

Preparing the Table

Preparing your billiard table for leveling is crucial to ensure an accurate and enjoyable playing experience. Here are the detailed steps to prepare your table effectively:

Gather the Necessary Tools: You will need a spirit level (preferably a 6-foot level with magnetic feet), a carpenter’s pencil, a piece of chalk or marking tool, and a shim kit (thin sheets of material used for leveling).
Remove Obstacles: Clear the table of all accessories, including balls, rack, and lights. Check underneath the table to ensure there are no obstructions that could impede leveling.
Check for Levelness on the Floor: Use the spirit level to check if the floor underneath the billiard table is level. If not, use shims or a leveling compound to level the floor before proceeding.
Clean the Table Surface: Wipe the surface of the table with a damp cloth to remove any debris or dust that could affect the leveling process.
Mark the Table’s Center: Draw an “X” on the center of the table using the chalk or marking tool. This will serve as a reference point for subsequent leveling.
Place the Spirit Level on the Table: Position the spirit level on the table’s surface, perpendicular to the side rails. Align one end of the level with the center mark.

Measuring the Levelness

With the spirit level in place, carefully observe the bubble within the level. The bubble should be positioned in the center of the level. If it is not centered, proceed to the next step.

If the bubble is to the left of the center, place a shim under the right-hand leg to raise the table on that side. Conversely, if the bubble is to the right, add a shim under the left-hand leg to lower the table.

Continue adding or removing shims until the bubble is centered in the level. Once the table is level in the first direction, rotate the spirit level 90 degrees and repeat the leveling process for the other side of the table.

After both sides are level, check the table’s diagonal levelness by placing the spirit level diagonally across the table. Ensure that the bubble is centered on both diagonals.

Disassembling the Rails

The first step in leveling a billiard table is to disassemble the rails. This will give you access to the slate bed and allow you to make any necessary adjustments.

1. Remove the rail bolts.

The rail bolts are located on the underside of the rails. They are typically 5/16″ or 3/8″ bolts. Start by removing the bolts from one rail, then do the same for the other rail.

2. Lift the rails off the slate bed.

Once the bolts have been removed, you can lift the rails off the slate bed. Be careful not to damage the slate bed when doing so.

Here are some tips for lifting the rails:

Use a pry bar or a flathead screwdriver to help you lift the rails.
Lift the rails slowly and evenly.
Do not put any pressure on the slate bed when lifting the rails.

3. Store the rails in a safe place.

Once the rails have been removed, you can store them in a safe place until you are ready to reassemble the table.

Leveling the Slate

Checking the Level

Begin by placing the level lengthwise across the slate, parallel to the side rails, and check for level. If the bubble is not centered, insert shims underneath the slate at the appropriate corners or sides to raise or lower the slate. Repeat this process until the level is centered when placed in both directions across the slate.

Inserting Shims

Shims are thin pieces of material used to adjust the height of the slate. They are typically made of plastic or metal and come in various thicknesses. Select shims of the appropriate thickness based on the amount of adjustment needed. Insert the shims between the slate and the frame, using a shim tool or a small screwdriver. Ensure that the shims are evenly distributed around the slate to prevent warping.

Final Adjustments

Once the slate is roughly level, make final adjustments by using a carpenter’s level to check the level in the corners of the table. Adjust the shims as necessary until the level is centered in all positions. This process may require several iterations of checking and adjusting to achieve perfect level. Once the slate is perfectly level, the shims should be secured in place with screws or glue to prevent them from moving and compromising the level.

Adjusting the Cushions

Once the slate bed is level, you can now adjust the cushions. The ideal height for the cushions is such that the cue ball sits about 1/4 inch below the top of the rail. It’s worth noting that different types of cushions may have different ideal heights, so it’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific cushions you have.

To adjust the height of the cushions, use a shim. A shim is a thin piece of material, such as cardboard or plastic, that can be placed under the cushion to raise it. To raise the cushion, place the shim under the center of the cushion. To lower the cushion, place the shim under one end of the cushion.

Once you have placed the shim, check the height of the cushion with a level. The cushion should be level both horizontally and vertically. If the cushion is not level, adjust the shim until it is.

When adjusting the cushions, it is important to work slowly and carefully. Make small adjustments and check the level frequently. This will help you to achieve the desired height and alignment for the cushions.

Once the cushions are adjusted, you can move on to the next step, which is aligning the rails.

Cushion Height Adjustment Table

Cushion Type	Ideal Height
K66	1/4 inch below the top of the rail
K55	5/16 inch below the top of the rail
Simonis	3/8 inch below the top of the rail

Installing the Rails

Once the table has been assembled and the frame is level, it’s time to install the rails. The rails are the long, padded cushions that run along the sides and ends of the table.

To install the rails, you will need the following tools:

A Phillips head screwdriver
A hammer
A level

Follow these steps to install the rails:

Start by attaching the side rails to the table frame. There will be two holes on each side of the frame where the rails will attach. Insert the screws through the holes and tighten them using the screwdriver.
Once the side rails are attached, you can install the end rails. There will be two holes on each end of the frame where the rails will attach. Insert the screws through the holes and tighten them using the screwdriver.
Use a level to check that the rails are level. If they are not level, you can adjust the screws to level them out.
Once the rails are level, you can insert the rubber cushions into the rails. The cushions will help to protect the rails from damage and provide a consistent playing surface.
To insert the cushions, simply press them into the rails until they are fully seated. You may need to use a hammer to tap them in if they are tight.

Part	Quantity
Side Rails	2
End Rails	2
Phillips Head Screws	12
Rubber Cushions	4

Tightening the Bolts

Once the table is leveled, it’s crucial to tighten the bolts securely to maintain the level. Follow these steps to tighten the bolts properly:

Use a wrench or socket: Locate the bolts holding the slate to the frame and use a wrench or socket to tighten them.
Tighten gradually: Gradually tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern, moving from one bolt to its opposite to ensure even distribution of pressure.
Apply sufficient torque: Tighten the bolts firmly but not excessively. Aim for a snug fit without overtightening.
Use a torque wrench (optional): If available, use a torque wrench to apply a precise amount of torque to the bolts, ensuring consistent tightness.
Double-check: Once tightened, double-check the levelness of the table using the same spirit level used earlier.
Secure with threadlocker (optional): For added security, apply a drop of threadlocker to the bolts to prevent them from loosening over time.

Inspecting the Playing Surface

To assess the levelness of the playing surface, you’ll need a straight edge, such as a carpenter’s level or a long ruler. Place the straight edge on the slate along the length, width, and diagonals of the table. Check for any gaps or unevenness between the straight edge and the slate.

Checking for Crooked Rails

Apart from the slate surface, it’s crucial to inspect the rails for any warping or misalignment. This can be done by placing the straight edge along the length of each rail, checking for any gaps or inconsistencies in height. If you notice any deviations, it indicates that the rails may need adjustments.

Identifying Loose Slates

In addition to checking the levelness of the playing surface, it’s essential to identify any loose slates. This can be done by gently tapping on each slate using a rubber mallet or your knuckles. A loose slate will produce a hollow or rattling sound, indicating that it needs to be secured.

Determining Pocket Alignment

Proper alignment of the pockets is essential for accurate gameplay. To check this, drop balls into each pocket from various angles and distances. If the balls consistently hit the rails or pocket covers before falling in, it suggests that the pockets may need to be adjusted or re-leveled.

Assessing Cushion Response

The responsiveness of the cushions is crucial for smooth and consistent ball movement. Check the cushions by gently pressing your fingers against them and releasing. The cushions should rebound quickly and evenly, with no noticeable dead spots or inconsistencies.

Inspecting for Loose or Damaged Hardware

Examine the table bolts, screws, and rails for any signs of looseness or damage. Loose hardware can affect the stability and alignment of the table. Tighten any loose bolts or screws as needed, and replace any damaged hardware.

Measuring the Playing Height

Finally, measure the playing height of the table to ensure it meets the standard specifications. The height should be approximately 30 inches from the playing surface to the floor. Adjust the legs or levelers as necessary to achieve the correct height.

Calibrating the Pocket Angles

Calibrating the pocket angles ensures that all six pockets are positioned correctly and level. This is crucial for fair play, as it affects the behavior of the balls as they enter the pockets.

To calibrate the pockets, you will need a leveling tool, such as a carpenter’s level or a billiard-specific leveling device. Position the tool on the table’s surface, parallel to the long rail, and adjust the table legs until the bubble in the level rests in the center.

Next, measure the distance from the bottom of the slate to the top edge of the rails at each pocket. These measurements should be consistent across all six pockets. If they vary, adjust the rails accordingly until the measurements are equal.

Once the rails are level and the pocket distances are consistent, it’s time to check the pocket angles. Roll a ball from a central point on the table towards each pocket. The ball should enter the pocket smoothly without hitting the cushions or bouncing off the rail. If the ball does not enter cleanly, adjust the pocket angle by gently bending the narrow part of the pocket opening. Continue adjusting until the ball rolls smoothly into the pocket.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for calibrating the pocket angles:

Step	Action
1	Level the table surface using a leveling tool.
2	Measure the distance from the slate to the rail at each pocket.
3	Adjust the rails to ensure the distances are equal.
4	Roll a ball into each pocket to check the pocket angle.
5	Adjust the pocket angle if the ball doesn’t enter smoothly.

Cleaning and Maintaining the Table

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for preserving the longevity and playability of your billiard table. Here are some tips to keep your table in pristine condition:

Cleaning the Rails and Cushions

Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the rails and cushions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the material. For stubborn stains, you can use a mild dish soap solution. Rinse the cloth thoroughly and wipe the surface dry to prevent moisture buildup.

Lubricating the Rails

Lubrication is essential for preventing balls from sticking to the rails. Apply a thin layer of billiard rail lubricant to the inside edges of the rails where the balls make contact. Avoid over-lubrication, as this can make the balls more difficult to control.

Cleaning the Felt

The felt on your billiard table should be regularly vacuumed to remove dust and debris. Use a soft brush attachment and avoid using too much suction, which can damage the felt. Additionally, you can use a billiard table brush to gently remove surface dirt and fibers.

Removing Stains

If you spill a liquid on the felt, blot it up immediately with a clean, dry cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can spread the stain. If the stain persists, try using a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for billiard tables. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Polishing the Rails and Cushions

Regular polishing helps to protect the rails and cushions from wear and tear. Apply a small amount of billiard rail polish to a soft cloth and rub it along the surface. This will create a protective layer and enhance the appearance of your table.

Inspecting and Adjusting the Level

Periodically check the level of your billiard table to ensure fair play and accurate ball trajectories. Place a level on the bed of the table and adjust the levelers at the base until the bubble is centered. Ensure the table is level from both the long and short sides.

Table Cover

covering your billiard table when no playing helps to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture. Choose a cover that fits snugly and is made of a breathable material to prevent condensation buildup.

How to Level a Pool Table

Leveling a pool table is important for the table to play correctly and for the balls to roll straight. Here are the steps involved in leveling a pool table:

Gather necessary tools You will need a level, a 9-foot straight edge, and a wrench.
Position the table Place the pool table on the desired location.
Assemble the table If your table is not already assembled, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling the table.
Attach legs to the table If your table has adjustable legs, attach the legs to the table.
Level the table Place the level on the table and adjust the legs until the table is level.
Check the table with a straight edge Place the straight edge across the table from one end to the other. If the straight edge is level, the table is level.
Tighten the legs Once the table is level, tighten the legs to secure them in place.
Set the felt If your table has a felt surface, set the felt on the table.
Install the rails Install the rails on the table.
Install the pockets Install the pockets on the table.

Troubleshooting Common Leveling Issues

Here are some troubleshooting tips for leveling a pool table:

The table is not level If the table is not level, adjust the legs until the table is level.
The balls do not roll straight If the balls do not roll straight, the table may not be level. Check the table with a level and adjust the legs until the table is level.
The cloth is not flat If the cloth is not flat, the table may not be level. Check the table with a level and adjust the legs until the table is level.
The legs are not secure If the legs are not secure, the table may not be level. Tighten the legs to secure them in place.

How To Level A Billiard Table

It is important to level your billiard table before playing on it to ensure a fair and accurate game. There are two main ways to level a billiard table: using a level and by using shims.

To level a billiard table using a level, place the level on the playing surface of the table and adjust the legs until the bubble in the level is centered. Repeat this process for all four sides of the table.

To level a billiard table using shims, place shims under the legs of the table until the table is level. Shims are thin pieces of material, such as cardboard or plastic, that can be used to adjust the height of the legs. Once the table is level, tighten the bolts on the legs to secure the table in place.