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Screwdrivers laid out for a repair
Illustrative photo by Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels
Small repairs

Replace felt pads on chair legs

Replace worn felt pads on dining chair legs. Measure the feet, prepare the surface and test that the pads protect the floor without rocking.

Estimated time
15 min
Skill level
Beginner

Before you start

Check what the chair feet are made of and what the floor manufacturer recommends. The pad needs a flat surface and should fit within the end of the leg. If the chair currently has a loose push-in glide, identify the glide first because a pad needs a sound surface to stick to.

Tools and materials

  • Self-adhesive felt pads
  • Damp cloth
  • Dry cloth
  • Ruler

Step-by-step instructions

  1. Check the feet

    Set the empty chair on its side on a soft surface. Measure the flat contact area of each foot and choose pads that fit within it.

  2. Prepare the surface

    Peel off the worn pads, wipe away dirt and let the feet dry fully.

  3. Apply the pads

    Centre each pad and press firmly for the time on the pack. Follow the pack’s instructions before putting weight on them.

  4. Test the chair

    Stand it upright on a level floor, check for wobble and slide it gently to make sure the pads stay put.

Check the result

Once the adhesive has set as directed, move the chair gently in more than one direction. Look underneath for a pad that has shifted or collected grit. Sit down only after the empty chair stands level on all four feet.

Troubleshooting

Replace the pads as a set if mixed thicknesses make the chair rock.