Slate raised on table

[Mark]

I have a 9' Peter Vitalie Sterling table with 1" slate and for some reason I have a problem with the seams on the slate shifting. Not sure if it was a shoddy install job or not. I think it might have to do with humidity but the room does not change THAT significantly. When I run my hand along the seam I can feel it raised at various points and at times I can hear the balls bump as they pass it.

When I put a level on it the table is still very level it is just the seams. I am thinking about buying Simonis and recovering it but wanted some input on what I can do to prevent this slate movement.

Also, has anyone found a good book or video on how to re-cover a table. I watched the installers do it but have never done it on my own.

[Mark,]

Try www.rolltrue.com
I used their kit and video and my table came out excellent the first time I did it. Good luck!

The slate is screwed to the frame. It will pop with a change in pressure. High humidity change could pop the slate but it would be unusual. Shoddy install? When did you notice the seam. If your ready for a recovery I assume it has been over a year since the table has been set up. How long after the install did you notice the seams? It could be that the screws are not tight or the holes are stripped out allowing the slate to move. Change in pressure. Has someone tried to show off by lifting the table? Do people sit on the rail. I have worked on a couple Vitales and they all had heavy framing. Light framing shows up as table wobble when you bump it.
To fix it check the screws and tap in wedges as needed.
A more perment fix.
9 foot tables have a long span across the table.
Older tables had screws through the slate in the middle of the table into the cross beams to prevent popping.
About 10-15 years ago someone decided that the installation could be down quicker if the installers did not have to fill the center holes
It is generally not a problem on the smaller tables, but the 9 foot tables have that long span. So if you want a more perment fix drill holes through the slate in the middle of the table with a concrete bit and run screws into the cross beam. Fill the hole with fix all or something similar