Leveling a billiard table is an essential step in ensuring a consistent and enjoyable playing surface. When a table is not level, it can cause the balls to roll erratically and make it difficult to play shots accurately. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to level a billiard table, ensuring that you have a perfectly level playing surface every time you play.
Before you begin leveling the table, it is important to gather the necessary tools. You will need a level, a chalk line, and a set of leveling bolts. Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the leveling process by placing the level on the slate of the table. The level should be placed lengthwise on the table, and you should check the level at both ends of the table. If the level shows that the table is not level, you will need to adjust the leveling bolts.
To adjust the leveling bolts, you will need to crawl under the table and locate the bolts. The leveling bolts are typically located at each corner of the table, and they can be adjusted by turning them with a wrench or a screwdriver. When adjusting the leveling bolts, you should turn the bolts in small increments, checking the level after each adjustment. You should continue adjusting the bolts until the level shows that the table is level at both ends. Once the table is level, you should tighten the leveling bolts to secure them in place.
Preparing the Equipment
A properly leveled billiard table is essential for accurate play. If the table is not level, the balls will not roll true and your shots will be off target. Leveling a billiard table is a relatively simple process, but it does require some precision. Here’s a detailed guide on how to level a billiard table:
Materials you’ll need:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Level | 2 |
| Wedge shims | As needed |
| Hammer or mallet | 1 |
Steps:
- Clear the table. Remove all balls, racks, and other objects from the table.
- Place the levels on the table. Place one level on the long axis of the table and one level on the short axis. The levels should be placed parallel to the rails.
- Adjust the legs. If the table is not level, you will need to adjust the legs. To do this, use a hammer or mallet to tap the bottom of the leg that is too high. Be careful not to hit the leg too hard, or you could damage it.
- Re-check the level. Once you have adjusted the legs, re-check the level to make sure that the table is now level.
- Install the shims. If the table is still not level, you may need to install shims. Shims are thin pieces of wood or plastic that can be placed under the legs to level the table. To install a shim, simply slide it under the leg until the table is level.
- Tighten the leg bolts. Once you have the table level, tighten the leg bolts to secure the legs.
Aligning the Slate
Once the frame is leveled, it’s time to align the slate. This is a critical step, as the slate is the playing surface of the table and any misalignment will affect the accuracy of your shots.
To align the slate, you’ll need to use a straight edge and a level. Place the straight edge across the slate, from one end to the other. Then, place the level on the straightedge and check for levelness. If the slate is not level, you’ll need to adjust the shims under the slate until it is level.
Once the slate is level, you need to align it with the frame. To do this, place a level on the slate, parallel to the long rail. Check for levelness, and if the slate is not level, adjust the shims under the slate until it is level. Once the slate is level and aligned, you can move on to the next step.
Here are some additional tips for aligning the slate:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a long straight edge. | A longer straight edge will give you a more accurate reading than a shorter one. |
| Check for levelness in both directions. | The slate should be level both from side to side and from end to end. |
| Make small adjustments. | Don’t try to adjust the slate too much at once. Make small adjustments and check for levelness each time. |
Adjusting the Legs
The billiard table legs provide a stable base for the table and play a crucial role in achieving precise leveling. Here’s a detailed guide to adjusting the legs:
Measurement and Marking
Use a level to measure the height of all four corners of the table. Mark the current height of each leg on the table base using a pencil.
Raise or Lower the Legs
The legs are typically fitted with levelers at the bottom. Turn the levelers clockwise to raise the leg and counterclockwise to lower it. Adjust the legs until each corner of the table is level.
Lock the Legs
Once the legs are level, lock them in place to maintain stability. Most billiard tables have a locking mechanism built into the base. Engage this mechanism securely to prevent any movement of the legs.
Advanced Leveling for Precise Adjustment
For advanced leveling, you can use a pool table leveling tool. This tool consists of two bubble levels mounted on a straight edge that spans the table. Place the tool across the table and adjust the legs until both bubble levels indicate a level surface.
Another method for precise leveling involves using a laser level. Position the laser level at the center of the table and adjust the legs so that the laser beam sweeps across all four corners of the table at the same height.
After adjusting the legs, recheck the level of the table using a level or leveling tool to ensure accuracy.
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Measure the height of each corner. |
| 2 | Mark the current leg height. |
| 3 | Adjust legs using levelers. |
| 4 | Lock legs in place. |
| 5 | Recheck leveling with a level or leveling tool. |
Leveling Side-to-Side
To level the table side-to-side, you will need the following tools:
- Level
- Shim
- Wrench
Step 1: Place the level on the playing surface
Place the level lengthwise on the playing surface, parallel to one of the long sides of the table.
Step 2: Adjust the feet
If the level shows that the table is not level, adjust the feet on that side of the table by turning them clockwise or counterclockwise with a wrench.
Step 3: Use shims if necessary
In some cases, the feet may not be able to adjust enough to level the table. In this case, you will need to use shims. Place shims under the feet that need to be raised, and then adjust the feet until the table is level. The table may require a shim no thicker than 0.005 inches.
| SIDE-TO-SIDE ADJUSTMENT | SLATE TABLE | WOOD TABLE |
|---|---|---|
| Without Shims | Yes | No |
| With Shims | Yes | Yes |
Leveling Front-to-Back
To level your billiard table from front to back, follow these steps:
1. Place a level on the table’s bed
Place a level on the table’s bed and adjust the height of the legs until the level is straight.
2. Check the level at different points
Move the level to different points on the table and make sure it stays straight at all points.
3. Adjust the legs if necessary
If the level is not straight, adjust the legs on the end of the table that is lower.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until the table is level
Repeat steps 1-3 until the level is straight and all points on the table.
5. Fine-tune the level
Once the table is approximately level, use a bubble level to fine-tune the level. Place the bubble level on the bed of the table and adjust the legs until the bubble is centered.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place a level on the table’s bed |
| 2 | Check the level at different points |
| 3 | Adjust the legs if necessary |
| 4 | Repeat steps 1-3 until the table is level |
| 5 | Fine-tune the level using a bubble level |
Checking the Level
Accurately leveling a billiard table is crucial for true ball roll and enjoyable gameplay. Follow these steps meticulously to ensure a flat and balanced surface.
- Locate Center Point: Set the rack in the center of the table, place a billiard ball on the spot, and gently tap it down to find the dead center.
- Mark Center: Use a chalk or marker to draw a small dot on the table at the center point.
- Place Level: Position a carpenter’s level on the table surface, ensuring it is perpendicular to the cushions.
- Check Sides: Move the level along each long rail, checking for level by adjusting the table’s legs accordingly.
- Check Cross Rails: Place the level across both short rails, measuring from the center point to the cushions. Adjust the legs to ensure the table is level in both directions.
- Cross-Check: Rotate the level 90 degrees and repeat the level checks from step 4 and 5 to verify accuracy and eliminate any potential errors.
| Side | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Long Rail 1 | 0.050″ |
| Long Rail 2 | -0.030″ |
| Short Rail 1 | 0.015″ |
| Short Rail 2 | -0.025″ |
Fine-tune the level by adjusting the legs in small increments until the surface reads perfectly level in all measurements. A properly leveled billiard table will enhance the precision of shots, improve the overall playing experience, and preserve the life of your equipment.
Securing the Legs
Once the billiard table is level, the legs need to be secured to prevent the table from moving or wobbling during play. This can be done by using a variety of methods, including:
- Bolts and nuts: This is the most common method of securing billiard table legs and is very effective.
- Screws: Screws can also be used to secure billiard table legs, but they are not as effective as bolts and nuts.
- Brackets: Brackets can be used to secure billiard table legs to the floor or to each other.
- Leveling feet: Leveling feet are a type of adjustable foot that can be used to level billiard tables.
- Shims: Shims can be used to level billiard tables by placing them under the legs.
- Weights: Weights can be placed on billiard tables to help keep them stable.
- Rubber pads: Rubber pads can be placed under billiard table legs to help prevent them from moving or wobbling.
The best way to secure billiard table legs will depend on the type of table and the type of flooring. It is important to choose a method that is both effective and safe.
| Method | Effectiveness | Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Bolts and nuts | Very effective | Very safe |
| Screws | Effective | Safe |
| Brackets | Very effective | Very safe |
| Leveling feet | Effective | Safe |
| Shims | Less effective | Very safe |
| Weights | Less effective | Very safe |
| Rubber pads | Less effective | Very safe |
Refinishing the Table Surface
1. Remove the old finish. Use a chemical stripper or sandpaper to remove the old finish from the table surface. Be sure to wear a mask and gloves when using a chemical stripper.
2. Sand the table surface. Once the old finish is removed, sand the table surface with a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth it out.
3. Apply a new finish. Apply a new finish to the table surface using a brush or a roller. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the finish you are using.
4. Let the finish dry. Allow the finish to dry completely before using the table.
Checking the Level
Once you have refinished the table surface, it is important to check the level to make sure that it is even. To do this, you will need a level and a straight edge.
Place the level on the table surface and adjust it until it is level. Then, place the straight edge on the table surface and move it around to check for any unevenness. If you find any unevenness, you will need to sand the table surface again and reapply the finish.
Adjusting the Legs
If the table is not level, you can adjust the legs to level it out. To do this, you will need a wrench or a screwdriver.
Turn the legs clockwise to raise the table and counterclockwise to lower it. Be sure to turn the legs evenly so that the table does not become uneven.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Level | Check if the table is level. |
| Straight edge | Check for any unevenness on the table surface. |
| Wrench or screwdriver | Adjust the legs to level the table. |
Maintaining the Level Table
To maintain the level of your billiard table, it’s crucial to perform regular checks and adjustments. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Check Regularly:
Inspect the table’s level monthly or more frequently if used heavily. This ensures any slight shifts are detected and corrected timely.
2. Use a Level:
Obtain a quality carpenter’s level, at least 48 inches long, for accurate measurements. Place it across the table’s length and width.
3. Check the Rails:
Ensure the rails are level by placing the level on each rail and checking for any deviations. Adjust the bolts or shims underneath to level them.
4. Adjust the Slate:
If the rails are level but the table still isn’t, use a slate jack to lift the slate. Insert shims or adjust the bolts at the corners to level it.
5. Use a Shim Kit:
A shim kit contains various thickness shims that can be inserted between the slate and frame to level it. Place shims where needed to eliminate any gaps.
6. Tighten Bolts:
Once the table is level, tighten all bolts and screws to secure it. Check the level again to ensure no further adjustments are necessary.
7. Fine-tune Adjustments:
Use a cue ball to roll across the surface and observe its movement. If it rolls straight, the table is level. If it curves, consider using a leveling agent or consulting a professional.
8. Maintain a Climate-controlled Environment:
Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause the table to warp. Maintain a stable environment around 65-75°F with 40-60% humidity.
9. Cover the Table:
When not in use, cover the table with a billiard table cover to protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture, which can affect its level.
10. Professional Assistance:
If you encounter any difficulties or significant leveling issues, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified billiard table installer or technician for professional assistance.
How to Level a Billiard Table
Leveling a billiard table is an essential step to ensure a smooth and accurate game. An uneven table will cause the balls to roll erratically, making it difficult to play well. Here are the steps on how to level a billiard table:
- Gather your materials. You will need a level, a chalk line or string, a straight edge, a shim kit, and a wrench.
- Place the level on the table. Start by placing the level on the center of the table, parallel to the long side. Note the reading.
- Mark the high and low points. Use the chalk line or string to mark the high and low points on the table. The high point will be the side of the table that is higher than the other side.
- Insert shims under the high point. Use the shims to raise the high point of the table until it is level with the low point. Be sure to insert the shims evenly so that the table is not tilted.
- Tighten the bolts. Once the table is level, tighten the bolts that secure the table to the floor. This will help to keep the table from moving and becoming unlevel.
Once you have leveled the table, you should check it again to make sure it is still level. If it is not, repeat the steps above until the table is level.
People Also Ask About How to Level a Billiard Table
How often should I level my billiard table?
You should level your billiard table every time you move it or if you notice that the balls are rolling erratically.
What is the best way to level a billiard table?
The best way to level a billiard table is to use a level, a chalk line or string, a straight edge, a shim kit, and a wrench.
How much does it cost to level a billiard table?
The cost to level a billiard table will vary depending on the size of the table and the difficulty of the job. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for a professional to level your table.
