How to Assemble a Slate Pool Table

Slate top pool tables can be a great source of entertainment for you and your family. The drawbacks to slate top pool tables are their cost and weight. Because they are so heavy, it is extremely difficult to move and assemble the table. If you have several strong friends who are willing to help out, these steps will show you how to safely assemble your slate top pool table.

Things You'll Need

• Slate top pool table
• Screwdriver
• Wrench
• Level
• Beeswax sealant
• Propane torch
• Putty knife
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Place the pool table's cabinet upside down on the floor. Be sure you have the cabinet in the exact spot where you want the pool table to rest. It will be very difficult to move the table once you have the slate panels in place, so double-check your measurements before proceeding.

2. Affix the table's legs to the brackets located on the bottom of the cabinet. Tighten the bolts that hold the legs onto the cabinet. Turn the cabinet over and check the bolts to make sure they did not loosen now that the legs are supporting the weight of the cabinet.

3. Set the middle panel of slate in the center of the table. Use a tape measure to check the open space on either side of the slate panel to be sure it is directly in the middle. If it is not, the other two pieces of slate will not fit into place. Set the other slate panels in their places on each side of the middle panel.

4. Check the slate top to be sure it is level. Even the slightest slope will affect the quality of play on the pool table. If the table is not level, raise up the lower side with shims until it is even with the high side. Tighten the screws evenly and re-check the slate top to make sure it is still level.

5. Use a propane torch to melt beeswax sealant onto the seams between the pieces of slate. Drip some beeswax in the screw holes to create a smooth playing surface. Allow the wax to dry, then scrape off any excess with a putty knife.

6. Set the felt on the bed of the pool table. Cut the necessary holes in the slate top for the bolts. Line up the side rails and tighten the screws that hold everything in place. Depending on the style of your pool table, attach the pockets on the bottom of the table by either stapling them on or screwing them into the table cabinet.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure the room to make sure the slate pool table is centered. Leave at least 68 inches of space around the edges of the table so there is enough room for people to shoot without being pressed up against the wall.