Steady a wobbly table with furniture shims

Before you start

Try the table on a known flat patch of floor if it is light enough to move safely. If the wobble disappears and the legs are firm, the original spot needs levelling. Check for adjustable feet before buying shims because a built-in adjuster can do the same job.

Tools and materials

• Furniture shims suited to your floor
• Masking tape

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Clear the tabletop

   Move breakables and heavy objects before testing the table.

2. 2

   Find the gap

   Press gently above each corner in turn and identify the foot that lifts. Check that the legs and joints are firmly attached before continuing.

3. 3

   Fit a shim

   Mark the foot with tape, then slide in a furniture shim until it fills the gap. Keep the shim under the foot so it stays clear of passing feet.

4. 4

   Retest from each corner

   Press gently above every leg. If the table still rocks, reposition the shim or try a different thickness.

Check the result

With the table in its usual position, press above each leg. It should stay still, and no shim should stick out or shift when you push it lightly. Recheck the setup if you later move the table or change the flooring.