Pool Table FAQs
Answers to common questions about moving, refelting, repairs, cushions, slate, leveling, pricing and professional pool table service.

1How much does it cost to move, refelt or repair a pool table?
Pricing depends on the table size and construction, service required, access or stairs, travel distance, cloth and materials, and any repairs or upgrades. Our pool table pricing guide explains the major factors and provides starting-price guidance.
2Do you have to disassemble a pool table to move it?
Slate pool tables generally need to be professionally disassembled for safe transport. Trying to move a fully assembled slate table can damage the frame, slate, seams, legs or flooring. See our moving and installation guide for the process.
3How long does a pool table move, repair or refelt take?
It varies by table and job. A move involving disassembly, transportation and reassembly can take much of a day. A typical refelt may take several hours, while repairs can range from a single appointment to multiple days when parts or extensive restoration are involved. See how to prepare for pool table service.
4How do I know if my cushion rubber needs replacing?
Common signs include a dull thud, inconsistent rebound, sluggish response, hardened rubber or cushions that feel noticeably different from rail to rail. Age alone isn’t a perfect test because environment, rubber quality and use all matter. Learn more about pool table rails and cushions.
5Do I need new cloth when moving my pool table?
Not always, but existing cloth cannot be guaranteed reusable. Cloth has already been stretched and attached during the previous installation, and it can tear or become damaged during removal depending on its age, condition and how it was installed.
6What is the difference between standard felt and worsted cloth?
Traditional recreational cloth generally has a more noticeable nap and plays slower. Worsted billiard cloth uses a tighter, smoother construction for faster, more consistent play and typically resists fuzz and pilling better. Compare options in our pool table cloth guide and felt color charts.
7Why is my pool table rolling off or out of level?
Uneven ball roll can result from installation, flooring movement, settling, frame issues or slate alignment. Carpet, hardwood, concrete, floating floors and rubber or interlocking tiles can behave differently under a table’s weight. We use machinist levels for precision pool table leveling.
8Can cracked or chipped pool table slate be repaired?
Many chips, seam imperfections and some slate damage can be repaired, but the right method depends on the location and severity of the damage. Major structural cracks may require a different approach or replacement. The slate should be inspected before deciding. See when to repair, restore or replace a pool table.
9Are Pool Table Masters services insured and guaranteed?
Pool Table Masters is licensed and insured. Our guarantee covers our workmanship; it does not mean a table can never move out of level afterward. Flooring or foundation movement, settling, humidity and environmental changes, normal wear, misuse, manufacturer issues and pre-existing conditions can affect a table after service.
10Do you service antique, custom or coin-operated pool tables?
Yes. Pool Table Masters works with many residential, commercial and specialty tables, including antique tables, coin-operated bar tables, bumper pool tables and other non-standard designs. Specialty tables may require additional time, parts or handling. See our commercial and bar pool table services.
11How can I tell how the pool table cloth is attached?
At a pocket opening, gently reach underneath the cloth edge without pulling or disturbing it. If you can feel staples securing the cloth to wood, the slate likely has wood backing. If the cloth feels bonded directly to the underside or edge of the slate, it is likely glued. The attachment method varies by table construction; staples should never be driven directly into slate. A clear photo inside a pocket can also help us identify the installation method. Learn more about pool table cloth application.
12How can I tell if my pool table has one-piece or three-piece slate?
Look underneath the table for the slate and its supporting frame. On many three-piece tables, cross-beams positioned beneath the two slate seams are a useful clue. One-piece slate appears as one uninterrupted slab and is common on many coin-operated and bar tables. Construction varies, so clear underside photos are often the best way for us to confirm the slate type. See what information to send before scheduling pool table service.
13Can a pool table be installed in a garage?
Yes, when the garage stays dry, has a stable floor and is reasonably protected from major temperature and humidity swings. Moisture, water intrusion and large seasonal changes can affect the cloth, cushions, wood components and table level. Review our pool table game room planning guide before installation.
14How much room do I need around a pool table?
Room size should be based on the playing surface plus cue clearance on every side. A standard cue is about 58 inches long, and walls, columns, counters and furniture can interfere with a full stroke. Use our pool table size and room guide for common 7-, 8- and 9-foot table dimensions.

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