How to Level a Billiard Table

To level a billiard table the right way

Most tables are built with strong and perfectly flat slate. Over time due to changes in the floor, table feet or other factors, the table surface may become uneven and seriously disrupt the enjoyment of playing billiards. It is then that you will need to seek an effective way to level a billiard table.

To level a billiard table for with the best possible results you can hire trained staff from Billiard Shop. Depending on the type of floor and floor covering the table can take anything from 4-6 weeks to settle properly. On most occasions, the table will come back level after this period and no adjustment will be necessary. DO NOT attempt to adjust the level within this period. If after 6 weeks the table still rolls, adjust up carefully using a spanner on the adjustable feet (clockwise will raise the table).

Make sure all feet are wound right in (anticlockwise) and that the center legs do not touch the ground. If necessary raise the outside legs slightly to achieve this.

With a level placed on the cloth diagonally in the center find the highest end at which to start. From this highest point, raise the other leg at the same end until they are both level. After you have levelled one end, place the level again diagonally in the center of the table and adjust the diagonally opposite legs to the ones you have just done.

Next double check with the level across the width of the end you have just finished and if it is not correct on the level, equalize the difference by raising one leg up slightly and the other down. Do not touch the center legs yet.

Now is the time to test with the roll of the ball. Lengthwise and crosswise approximately 12” inside and parallel with each cushion, roll a slow straight ball, with no side on it, to bounce from the opposite cushion and rebound back approximately ¾ the length. On this return roll off the cushion you will tell which way if any the table falls. Carefully adjust the appropriate outside leg accordingly. In most cases, especially with 9’ tables, you will have, when shooting across the width, a tendency for the ball, on both ends, to run towards the center. Just even up this fall until it is equal.

Now wind down the center legs until they are tight on the floor. Slowly, as you adjust the center legs more, you will see this sag in the table disappear.

Everything should be okay now, so leave the table the 4-6 weeks to settle before any further adjustments.

The final thing to level a billiard table perfectly, on the very odd occasions after this settling period the slate could have a slight dip to the center and this can be alleviated by driving a timber wedge between the slate and center cross support.

REMEMBER: Take a little extra care of your table and you will derive greater pleasure from its use.