My Experience With Uneven Table Legs
Have you ever sat down at a wobbly table? It’s frustrating, right? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me at a restaurant. The table I was sitting at had one leg that was shorter than the rest, causing the table to wobble every time someone moved. I couldn’t enjoy my meal because I was too busy trying to keep my drink from spilling.
After that experience, I decided to learn how to make table legs level. I did some research and found several methods that worked. In this article, I’ll share with you what I learned and provide tips and tricks to help you level your own table legs.
How to Make Table Legs Level: Step-by-Step Guide
Method 1: Shims
Shims are thin pieces of material, such as cardboard or wood, that you can wedge between the leg and the floor to level out the table. Here’s how to use shims:
- Remove any existing levelers or adjusters from the bottom of the table leg.
- Measure the gap between the leg and the floor.
- Cut a shim to fit the gap. Make sure it’s thin enough to fit under the leg but thick enough to provide support.
- Slide the shim under the leg and test the table for stability. Add more shims if necessary.
- Trim any excess shim material with a utility knife.
Method 2: Adjustable Levelers
Adjustable levelers are small, screw-in devices that attach to the bottom of the table leg. They allow you to adjust the height of each leg independently to level out the table. Here’s how to install adjustable levelers:
- Remove any existing levelers or adjusters from the bottom of the table leg.
- Measure the diameter of the leg and buy adjustable levelers that fit.
- Drill a hole in the bottom of the leg for the leveler.
- Screw the leveler into the hole and adjust the height until the table is level.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for How to Make Table Legs Level
- Use a level to determine which leg is the shortest.
- If you’re using shims, start with a thin shim and add more as needed.
- Adjustable levelers are more expensive than shims, but they’re easier to install.
- Consider buying a table with adjustable levelers built in.
- You can also use furniture pads or felt to help level out a table.
- For outdoor tables, use bricks or pavers to level out the legs.
- If you’re using shims, glue them together to prevent them from shifting.
- For tables with angled legs, use tapered shims to maintain the angle.
- Check the level of your table regularly to prevent wobbling.
- If all else fails, consider replacing the legs or buying a new table.
Pros and Cons of Different Methods for Making Table Legs Level
There are several methods for making table legs level, each with its own pros and cons. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Shims
Pros:
- Cheap
- Easy to use
- Can be adjusted as needed
Cons:
- Shims can shift over time
- May not provide enough support for heavy tables
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as other methods
Adjustable Levelers
Pros:
- Easy to install
- Can be adjusted as needed
- Provide more support than shims
Cons:
- More expensive than shims
- May not fit all table legs
- Can be difficult to find in stores
My Personal Review and Suggestion for How to Make Table Legs Level
After trying both shims and adjustable levelers, I prefer adjustable levelers. They’re easier to install and provide more support for heavy tables. Plus, they look better than shims. However, if you’re on a tight budget, shims are a good alternative. Just make sure to check them regularly to prevent shifting.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I use coins as shims?
A: While coins can be used as a temporary fix, they’re not ideal. They’re not thick enough to provide adequate support, and they can scratch your floor. Use cardboard or wood shims instead.
Q: How do I know if my table legs are uneven?
A: Use a level to check the table’s stability. If the table wobbles or rocks, it’s likely that one or more legs are shorter than the others.
Q: Can I use adjustable levelers on a concrete floor?
A: Yes, adjustable levelers can be used on concrete floors. You’ll need to use a masonry bit to drill a hole for the leveler.
Now that you know how to make table legs level, you can enjoy your meals without any wobbling or rocking. Whether you choose shims or adjustable levelers, make sure to check your table regularly to maintain stability.