Glass or stone tables: preparing for careful handling
A table with glass or stone top can require a different handling than that of a normal wooden table. Material, base links and dimensions determine the work: the first thing to do is document them without improvising the dismantling.
Describe plan and base separately
Picture the whole table, the edge of the floor and the visible links with the base. Communicates the size and, if known, the material's brand and characteristics. Avoid estimating weight by lifting an angle: if a reliable data is not available, you will need to evaluate it otherwise.
Mark the chippings, cracks, restorations or pre-existing glues. Some defects are little visible in a frontal photograph; a side light and a detail can document them better, without manipulating the table. This allows to discuss the conditions of the good before defining protection and handling.
Free a continuous path
Remove decorative objects and chairs from the working area. The route to the exit must be evaluated for all its length: doors, curves, steps and landings count more than the only width of the entrance. Indicates any delicate floors and non-existent differences.
Don't move the floor in the hallway thinking about helping the team. Provisional position may be less stable or prevent the use of the necessary equipment. Agree where to leave the table before arrival and make sure the space around is really available.
Define protection and equipment on the concrete case
The protection must be adapted to the material and shape, including edges and contact points. A simple layer of film does not solve all the risks of a fragile or heavy element. The possible separation of the plan from the base depends on the construction system and must be evaluated by the persons in charge.
For some goods specific protections or solutions of dedicated packing may be required, to be agreed in the quote. Do not assume that they are automatically included in any move. If the table has a particular value, it communicates this condition before, along with the available documentation, to clarify how it will be managed.
Preparing the final placement
In the new house you define the point of arrival before delivery. Avoid leaving the table in a temporary room if it will be necessary to handle it again a few hours later. Check the space for assembly, chairs and passage, especially when the room is smaller than the previous one.
After laying check with the operators visible conditions, supports and agreed connections. Do not change later supports or fixes without appropriate indications. A detailed request, accompanied by photographs of the two paths, allows you to evaluate the transfer of the table as a specific operation and to correctly organize the rest of the load.
If the base includes several separate elements, include them in the documentation: even a small support can be indispensable to correctly rebuild the plan’s support.