Avoid These Pitfalls When Moving A Pool Table
Planning to move a pool table without professional help? It might seem like a straightforward task. After all, you just have to lift and move, right? Wrong!
Unlike regular furniture, pool tables are extremely heavy and bulky. Furthermore, they are made up of delicate components. When mishandled, these components can get damaged easily.
From the slate surface to the felt and frame, every part of the pool table demands proper care when moving.
Unfortunately, most people underestimate the complexities of the process. They take this task lightly. That often leads to damages and even injuries!
Mistakes You Must Avoid When Moving A Pool Table
Wondering which common mistake to avoid when moving pool table? There are a few actually!
It’s natural to assume that moving a pool table is all about strength. In reality, it’s about precision!
Without strategy and care, mistakes are bound to occur. Even a minor oversight can lead to expensive repairs or injuries.
Here are a few mistakes that are often reported to occur during DIY pool table removal.
1. Underestimating The Weight And Size Of The Table
This is one of the biggest mistakes amateurs make when moving a pool table. A standard-sized 8-foot pool table can weigh up to 1000 lbs. Depending on the material and construction, it can weigh even more!
The bulky structure of the table makes it extremely challenging to manoeuvr through doorways and narrow hallways. Now, imagine how difficult it is to move them down the stairs!
In most cases of DYI moves, people realise the table is heavier and more cumbersome than they originally anticipated.
Improper lifting and moving can damage floors, walls, and even the table itself. Furthermore, trying to move the table by pushing it can damage its legs.
2. Not Disassembling The Table Before Moving
Moving the table as it is feels like the easier way, right? Well, it’s certainly the wrong way! In fact, not disassembling is another one of the top mistakes to avoid when moving pool table.
Pool tables are meant to be stationary. They are not designed to be carried in one piece. The slate is both heavy and delicate. It can crack or chip under strain. Then, there’s the risk of stretching it beyond repair. The frame and legs may also get weakened or warped during the move.
Disassembling the table properly includes carefully removing the:
- Legs
- Felt
- Rails
- Slate
However, it’s not just about taking it apart. The trick is in doing it methodically. Skipping steps or rushing through the process can create chaos.
3. Using Improper Tools Or Equipment
The lack of proper tools is the bane of most DIY moves. However, when it comes to moving a pool table, this common mistake can have serious consequences.
Moving the table with the wrong equipment, or worse, no equipment at all can be extremely risky. The table is not just heavy. It’s made of several fragile components.
Using makeshift solutions like household dollies or blankets may seem sufficient. However, they often lead to accidents. That’s why a moving company always prioritises:
- Specialised tools
- Padding and protective covers
- Moving straps
- Furniture dollies
Without these, you risk dropping components, damaging walls or floors, or even injuring yourself.
4. Not Using Protective Materials For Fragile Components
This one may sound like an obvious one. However, you would be surprised by how many people think they can do without using any protective materials.
The slate, felt, and wooden frame are particularly vulnerable to damage. You may ignore minor scratches. However, chips and tears can be costly or even impossible to repair!
Properly padding and wrapping the table is crucial. It is necessary not just when moving, but also for safely transporting the table.
Professional movers use heavy-duty moving blankets, bubble wrap, and specialized padding, with the pool table removal cost often covering these protective supplies
5. Underestimating The Time And Effort Required
Perhaps, the biggest mistake is to think moving the pool table is a piece of cake! Many assume they can do it quickly with minimal preparation or effort. They soon realise what a time-consuming and physically demanding task it is.
Rushing through the process can also lead to injuries and damages. To properly move the table, you need to plan every step in advance. From disassembling the table to loading it onto the van, every step requires careful execution.
Ensure A Mistake-Free Removal By Hiring Professionals
Hiring a professional removalist is the best way to avoid costly mistakes. Professionals have the right experience and expertise that prove invaluable during such a complex move.
Furthermore, they bring specalised tools that ensure a smooth process. Unlike DIY movers, professionals know exactly how to handle each step with perfect precision and care.
If you are looking for such movers, check out JAC Removals. As the top removalist in Sydney, we are the best choice for moving pool tables.
