Pool tables are one of the hardest items in a home to move. A standard 8-foot table weighs 700โ1,000 pounds, and the slate alone โ which is the flat playing surface โ can weigh 400โ600 pounds and will crack if handled incorrectly.
Why Pool Tables Need Special Handling
Moving a pool table is not a matter of just carrying it out the door. A pool table move involves:
- Removing the rails, pockets, and felt โ the felt (or cloth) can be reused if carefully removed, but it tears easily
- Separating the slate โ most tables use one or three pieces of slate that must be individually lifted and transported flat
- Disassembling the frame and legs
- Transporting everything safely โ slate must be kept flat and padded, never stood on its edge
- Reassembling at the destination โ including shimming and leveling the slate, reattaching rails, and refelting if needed
Skipping any of these steps risks cracking a slate slab (replacement cost: $200โ$600+), tearing the felt, or ending up with a table that doesn't play level.
How Much Does It Cost in Pittsburgh?
Pool table moving pricing in Pittsburgh:
- Same-room or same-floor move: $150โ$300
- Local move, standard access: $200โ$450
- Local move with stairs: $350โ$600
- Refelting included: Add $200โ$400
- Storage involved: Add $50โ$100/month
Pricing depends on the table size (7, 8, or 9 foot), whether it has a one-piece or three-piece slate, the number of stairs involved, and whether the felt needs replacing.
Should You Refelt While Moving?
If your table is being disassembled anyway, it's a good time to evaluate the felt. Signs you should refelt:
- Visible wear, thin spots, or bald patches
- Stains that affect play
- Burns or tears
- The felt has been on for 5+ years with regular use
New felt typically costs $200โ$400 for a standard table including installation. Since the table is already apart, there's no extra labor for removal โ you're just paying for the new cloth and stretching.
Supplies and Accessories
If you're prepping for the move or refreshing your table after:
- Pool table cover โ protect the surface after the move
- Pool table felt โ if you're refelting during the move
- Pool table leveling shims โ for precise leveling after reassembly
- Pool table brush โ keep new felt clean from day one
Finding Pool Table Movers in Pittsburgh
Pool table moves are a specialty service, so not every mover handles them. If you need a pool table moved in the Pittsburgh area, request a free quote through PGHPros and we'll connect you with movers who have experience with disassembly, transport, and releveling.