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Around the House · Free DIY Guide

How to Fix a Wobbly Chair or Table

  • Time: 30 min
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Steps: 5

Wobbles come from loose bolts, dried-out glue joints or one short leg. Each has a simple fix.

Tools & materials

  • Screwdrivers and Allen keys
  • Wood glue
  • Clamps or a ratchet strap
  • Rubber mallet
  • Felt pads or furniture levelers

Step by step

  1. Step 1

    Turn the piece over and tighten every bolt, screw and corner bracket.

  2. Step 2

    For a loose glued joint, gently pull it apart, scrape off old glue and apply fresh wood glue.

  3. Step 3

    Tap the joint back together with a rubber mallet and clamp it (a ratchet strap works for chairs).

  4. Step 4

    Wipe away squeeze-out and let it cure overnight.

  5. Step 5

    If it still rocks on a flat floor, add adjustable levelers or felt pads to the short leg.

When to stop and call ProFix

If you see any of these, stop and call us:

  • The wood is cracked through at the joint
  • It's an antique or valuable piece
  • Metal frames are bent or welds are broken

Not in the mood to DIY? A ProFix pro can handle it for you in Chicago Metro and Dallas–Fort Worth, with a written price before work starts.

Related guides

These guides are general information for simple repairs. You're responsible for your own safety and for following local codes and your lease or HOA rules. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional. All DIY guides

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