The felt on your pool table is one of the most important parts of the game. It provides a smooth, consistent surface for the balls to roll on, and it also helps to absorb the impact of the balls, which can help to prevent damage to the table. Over time, however, the felt on your pool table can become worn and damaged, which can make it difficult to play the game. If the felt on your pool table is starting to show signs of wear, you may be wondering how to recover it. Recovering a pool table is not a difficult task, but it does require some time and patience. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to recover a pool table.
Before you begin recovering your pool table, you will need to gather a few supplies. You will need:
– A new piece of pool table felt
– A staple gun
– Staples
– A hammer
– A chalk line
– A utility knife
– A measuring tape
Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin recovering your pool table. The first step is to remove the old felt from the table. To do this, you will need to use a utility knife to cut the felt around the edges of the table. Once the felt is cut, you can use your hands to peel it off the table. After you have removed the old felt, you can begin installing the new felt. To do this, you will need to place the new felt on the table and smooth it out. Once the felt is smooth, you can use your staple gun to staple it to the table. Be sure to space the staples evenly and to make sure that they are tight. After you have stapled the felt to the table, you can use your chalk line to mark the edges of the table. This will help you to cut the felt to the correct size. Once you have marked the edges of the table, you can use your utility knife to cut the felt to size. After you have cut the felt to size
Gather Necessary Materials
Gathering the right materials is crucial for a successful pool table recovery project. Here’s a comprehensive list to ensure you have everything you need:
Fabric
Choose high-quality billiard fabric that matches the style and color scheme of your pool table. Consider factors like speed, durability, and resistance to stretching and fading.
Cushions
Replace the old cushions with new ones that provide consistent bounce and response. They come in different densities and sizes to suit various playing styles.
Pool Table Cement
Pool table cement, a type of adhesive, is essential for bonding the slate pieces and fabric to the frame. It ensures a sturdy and stable playing surface.
Slate Pieces
If your slate pieces are chipped or damaged, you may need to replace them with new ones. They provide the foundation for the playing surface and should be level and free of imperfections.
Rails
Rails are the bumpers that surround the playing surface. They can be made from wood, metal, or a combination of materials. Choose rails that complement the style and aesthetics of your pool table.
Other Essential Tools
In addition to the primary materials, you’ll also need tools such as a staple gun, chalk, felt cutter, iron, and a level to ensure a precise and professional-looking finish.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Billiard Fabric | High-quality fabric for the playing surface |
| Cushions | Provides consistent bounce and response |
| Pool Table Cement | Adhesive for bonding slate and fabric |
| Slate Pieces | Foundation for the playing surface |
| Rails | Bumpers surrounding the playing surface |
| Staple Gun | For securing fabric to the rails |
| Felt Cutter | For precise cutting of fabric |
| Iron | For applying heat to the fabric |
| Level | For ensuring a level playing surface |
Remove the Slate Slabs
Removing the slate slabs is a critical step in recovering a pool table. Here’s a detailed guide to do it safely and effectively:
1. Preparation
Gather necessary tools: gloves, a strong vacuum cleaner, plastic sheeting, and a dolly or furniture sliders. Mark the position of each slate slab with chalk or tape for reassembly. Disconnect the main wires and remove all accessories.
2. Safety Measures
Wear gloves to protect your hands. Lay plastic sheeting around the table to catch dust and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove loose chalk and debris from the slate slabs.
3. Removing the Slabs
Carefully lift one corner of the slab using a putty knife or a specialized pool table scraper. If the slab is glued down, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Once you have a small gap, insert the putty knife or scraper and work it under the slab.
Detailed Steps for Removing Glued Slates
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a. Identify Glue Type | Determine if the glue is water-based or solvent-based. This can be done by testing a small area with water or acetone. |
| b. Heat the Glue | Use a heat gun or a hairdryer to soften the glue. |
| c. Apply Dissolving Agent | Apply a suitable dissolving agent based on the glue type to weaken the bond. |
| d. Insert Thin Knife | Insert a thin knife or putty knife under the slab and carefully work it around to separate the slate from the frame. |
Continue lifting the slab evenly, supporting it with a dolly or furniture sliders. Place it upright in a secure location, making sure to keep the edges aligned for easy reassembly.
Clean and Repair the Slate
After removing the old cloth, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean the slate to prep it for the new cloth. Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any dust or debris and then apply a specialized slate cleaner following the manufacturer’s instructions. This cleaner will remove any residual glue or wax from the previous installation.
Inspect the slate for any cracks, chips, or unevenness. If there are minor imperfections, you can use a slate filler or a special leveling compound to repair them. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and even surface. If the damage is substantial, it’s recommended to consult a professional pool table technician.
After cleaning and repairing the slate, lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper to create a slightly rough texture. This will help the glue adhere better during the installation of the new cloth. Brush away any sanding dust and ensure the slate surface is completely clean and level before proceeding.
Protect the Table from Damage
Once you’ve completed the cloth installation, it’s crucial to take measures to protect your pool table from damage and ensure its longevity.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Protect the table by keeping it away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the cloth and dry out the wood, causing warping and cracking.
Maintain a Stable Temperature
Pool tables prefer a stable temperature between 60-75°F. Extremes in temperature can warp the frame or cause the cloth to stretch or shrink.
Keep the Table Clean
Regularly clean the cloth and rails with a soft brush or a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials that can damage the surface.
Cover the Table When Not in Use
Invest in a custom-fitted table cover to shield the table from dust, dirt, and moisture when not in use. A good cover will also prevent curious pets or children from accidentally damaging it.
Use Proper Balls and Cues
Avoid playing with chipped or cracked balls, as they can damage the cloth. Similarly, use cues with proper tips to prevent denting the surface.
Limit Weight on the Rails
Don’t place heavy objects on the rails, as they can warp or crack. If you need to lean on the table, do so gently and distribute your weight evenly.
Avoid Recovering the Table Too Tightly
While a tight cloth is desirable, overtightening can put undue stress on the frame and cloth, leading to damage over time.
Use a Bridge Cover
When performing shots that require a bridge, use a bridge cover to protect the cloth from repeated friction and wear.
Professional Maintenance
Periodically, consider having your pool table professionally maintained. A skilled technician can inspect for any issues, adjust the level, and make necessary repairs to ensure your table remains in optimal condition.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you dive into the process, gather the necessary materials: sandpaper (coarse and fine), wood filler, putty knife, primer, paint, polyurethane finish, finishing nails, felt, rubber bumpers, and chalk.
1. Sanding the Table
Sand the table surface, rails, and legs to remove any old finish or imperfections. Start with coarse sandpaper to remove the bulk of the old finish, then switch to fine sandpaper for a smooth finish.
2. Filling Cracks and Holes
Fill any cracks or holes with wood filler using a putty knife. Allow the filler to dry completely, then sand it smooth.
3. Priming and Painting
Apply a coat of primer to the table and let it dry. Once the primer is dry, paint the table in your desired color using several thin coats.
4. Applying Polyurethane Finish
Apply several coats of polyurethane finish to protect the painted surface. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
5. Replacing Rubber Bumpers
Install new rubber bumpers on the rails of the table, using finishing nails to secure them in place.
6. Installing Felt
Cut the felt to fit the playing surface of the table, making sure it is taut and free of wrinkles. Secure the felt in place using a staple gun.
7. Setting up the Pockets
Set up the pockets by attaching them to the table rails with screws.
8. Final Touches
Clean the table with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Apply a small amount of chalk to the playing surface to enhance the grip and accuracy of your shots.
Enjoy Your Restored Pool Table
Congratulations on completing the restoration process! Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your renewed pool table with friends and family.
How to Recover a Pool Table
Recovering a pool table is an essential maintenance task that can help to extend the life of your table. Over time, the felt on your table can become worn or damaged, which can affect the playability of the game. Recovering your table with new felt can help to restore its performance and give it a fresh look.
The process of recovering a pool table is relatively simple, but it does require some time and effort. With the right tools and materials, you can recover your table in a weekend. Here are the steps involved:
1. Remove the old felt.
2. Clean the table surface.
3. Apply new felt.
4. Trim the felt.
5. Install the rails.
People also ask
How much does it cost to recover a pool table?
The cost of recovering a pool table will vary depending on the size of the table and the type of felt you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $300 and $500 for a professional to recover your table.
How long does it take to recover a pool table?
It will take you about 4 to 6 hours to recover a pool table. However, this time may vary depending on the size of the table and your level of experience.
Can I recover a pool table myself?
Yes, you can recover a pool table yourself. However, it is important to have the right tools and materials, and to follow the steps carefully. If you are not confident in your ability to recover the table yourself, you may want to hire a professional.
