How to Level a Pool Table

An uneven pool table throws off every shot. If the ball consistently rolls to one side or stops short without reason, your table likely needs leveling. Accuracy and fairness rely on a flat playing surface.

Casual players and serious competitors alike can find themselves frustrated by an uneven surface, which leads to misjudged angles and unnecessary wear on the table. Addressing the issue early not only protects your investment but also ensures the game remains true to form.

Before you grab your cues, make sure the table is stable, smooth, and properly aligned—it’s the foundation of good play. In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot signs of imbalance, explain the tools you'll need, and walk through a clear step-by-step process to get your table level again.

Signs Your Pool Table Is Not Level

There are a few telltale indicators that your table may be off. One of the most common is balls rolling toward the same side or pocket with no force applied, signaling that one section is higher or lower than the rest. You might also notice that straight shots aren’t rolling straight or that your cue ball keeps ending up in the same spot after multiple turns.

Other signs include shifting racks, uneven ball scatter during breaks, or an unnatural bounce when balls hit the rails. If your shots feel inconsistent or unpredictable, it’s time to check the level of your table—and if needed, repeat the process until everything is properly balanced.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the right tools. You’ll need:

• A carpenter’s level or machinist’s level
• Wood or composite shims (or adjustable leg levelers if your table has them)
• A wrench or screwdriver (depending on your table hardware)
• Measuring tape
• Optional: a smartphone leveling app for quick reference

Step-by-Step Guide to Leveling Your Pool Table

Use these clear steps to check your pool table and make accurate adjustments without guesswork.

1. Choose the Right Location

Start with the basics. Place your pool table on a flat, stable surface. Avoid areas where floors flex or slope, and try to keep it off thick carpet that compresses unevenly under weight.

2. Check the Initial Level

Place your level on the table’s surface. Test from side to side, end to end, and diagonally across both directions. Note any areas that tilt or sag. This tells you which corners need lifting and which should stay put.

3. Adjust the Legs

If your table has built-in levelers, turn them using a wrench or by hand. Raise or lower each corner slowly and recheck after every adjustment. For tables without built-in levelers, slide small shims under the legs until the table is even.

Use firm, non-slip shims that won’t compress under weight. Wobbly legs should be secured before continuing—loose bases make accurate leveling impossible.

4. Fine-Tune With a Ball Test

Once your table is mostly level, roll a cue ball slowly across different sections of the surface. Watch for unexpected drift. If the ball veers in the same direction each time, readjust that area and retest.

Use consistent force and direction when rolling the ball. This helps isolate surface problems rather than user error.

5. Recheck All Angles

After making adjustments, place your level back on the table. Check lengthwise, widthwise, and both diagonals again. Tables can shift slightly as weight settles or as you add pressure. Confirm each area before moving on.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after careful leveling, certain factors can cause your table to shift or become uneven again. Keep an eye out for the following:

• Worn or unstable table legs: Older tables with aging components may lose stability, causing frequent shifts in level.
• Loose or damaged frame: A compromised frame won’t hold adjustments well and may need repair before leveling can work.
• Uneven flooring: Sloped or flexible floors can throw off your efforts. Homes with crawlspaces or older construction often have these issues.
• Shims that compress or slip: Using the wrong materials can lead to instability over time, especially on soft flooring like carpet.

If these issues persist, examine both the table and its foundation. In some cases, professional floor adjustments or repairs may be necessary.

When to Call a Professional

Some pool tables are more complicated to level than others. Slate-top models often require multi-point leveling and careful surface checks. If your table has three-piece slate or intricate framing, a professional may save time and frustration.

Installers have the tools and experience to get the job done right. They can also diagnose underlying structural issues that affect levelness.

Built to Play, Designed to Last

For a level table and flawless gameplay, precision matters—and that’s where Blatt Billiards stands out. Whether you’re investing in a fully custom pool table, a semi-custom model, or one of our high-quality economy pool tables, we build each table with craftsmanship that lasts.

We also carry a full line of accessories, including cue sticks, cue racks, and more, so your setup is complete from day one. Trust Blatt Billiards to elevate every game with equipment that plays as good as it looks.