Easy Guide to Replacing Bar Stool Feet
Having a set of bar stools with wobbly, worn out feet can be frustrating. It's not only annoying when your stool rocks unsteadily as you sit, but it can also damage floors and be a safety hazard.
Luckily, replacing old, faulty bar stool feet with new ones is an easy and affordable fix. With a few tools and some basic DIY skills, you can have your bar stools stabilized in no time.
Reasons to Replace Your Bar Stool Feet
Here are some of the most common reasons you may need to swap out the feet on your bar stools:
- The current feet are worn down, causing a wobbly stool.
- The feet are broken or cracked.
- You want to change the style or design of the feet.
- The feet are scratched up and looking shabby.
- You need taller or shorter feet to adjust the height.
Putting new feet on your bar stool will restore stability, protect your floors from getting scratched up, and give your bar seating area a fresh, updated look. Wobbly stools not only detract from your decor, but can lead to potential injuries and damage if they collapse or fall over unexpectedly.
Dangers of Unstable Stools
Sitting on a stool that rocks or shifts unpredictably puts you at risk for:
- Falling off the stool and getting hurt
- Knocking over drinks or bar items
- Leaning uncomfortably to compensate for wobble
- Snagging or damaging floors as the stool legs shift
Wobbly stools are particularly hazardous for children and elderly individuals who could more easily lose balance. Replacing worn or faulty feet improves stability and gives you peace of mind.
Protecting Floors
Over time, worn out bar stool feet can scratch, scuff and dent hardwood, tile, laminate and other flooring types. As the protective padding on the bottom of feet deteriorates, the metal or hard plastic contacts the floor directly, causing damage with every rock and shift.
New replacement feet restore that protective barrier between the stool legs and your floors. Choose options with rubber, felt or soft plastic bottoms to prevent scratches and dents.
Choosing the Right Replacement Feet
Bar stool feet come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials and colors. Here are some popular options to consider:
Glides
Glides simply slide along the floor. They are made of low-friction materials like plastic, PVC, nylon or Teflon to move smoothly.
- Pros: Glides move easily and protect floors.
- Cons: Not best for carpeting or uneven floors.
Glides work best on smooth, flat flooring like tile, vinyl or low-pile carpets. The slick surface lets them slide rather than sticking in place.
Non-Skid Feet
Non-skid feet grip the floor to prevent slipping. Made of rubber, neoprene or silicone.
- Pros: Good grip for carpet or uneven floors.
- Cons: Can catch or snag on flooring.
Look for non-skid feet to use on carpeted floors or rough surfaces. The tacky grip keeps the stool firmly planted without sliding.
Leveling Feet
Leveling feet are height adjustable to stabilize wobbly stools on uneven floors. Made of rugged materials like iron, steel or polypropylene.
- Pros: Compensate for uneven floors and stabilize wobble.
- Cons: Can be trickier to install.
Leveling feet are ideal for using bar stools on bumpy tile, old wood floors or patio stones. Just twist to raise or lower each foot until the stool sits solidly.
Flat Disk Feet
Basic flat circular feet that provide stability. Made of plastic, rubber, polyurethane or felt.
- Pros: Simple and inexpensive.
- Cons: Less floor protection and adjustability.
Flat round feet work well as a budget option for general use. Look for soft pad materials to prevent floor damage.
Metal Flanges
Flanged feet made of steel, iron or aluminum that screw into the stool legs.
- Pros: Very durable construction.
- Cons: Noisier on hard floors and less cushioning.
Metal flanges offer a heavy duty option for workshop, garage or industrial bar stools. Use with floor protectors to prevent scuffs and scratches.
Buying Considerations
Factors to keep in mind when choosing replacement feet:
- Floor type - Carpet, tile, wood, etc.
- Height needs - Standard or adjustable height.
- Weight capacity - Depends on the stool frame.
- Style - Color, shape and material to match decor.
- Budget - Prices range from value to premium.
Buying the Right Size
To choose the right replacement feet, you'll need to measure your existing feet. Use a ruler to measure the diameter and height. Also take note of the screw size.
Purchase feet that match up closely. Having this information on hand makes it easier to find compatible parts online or at hardware stores.
Measuring Tips
- Use a metric ruler for precision.
- Double check diameter and height.
- Note screw thread type - fine, coarse, etc.
- Take photos for reference.
- Measure all feet for consistency.
Carefully measuring and documenting the current feet ensures you get replacements that properly fit the stool base and legs.
How to Remove Old Bar Stool Feet
Taking off the old feet is an important first step. Follow these steps:
- Turn the stool upside down and place it on a flat surface.
- Locate the screws or bolts that attach each foot. You may need to look inside the legs or base.
- Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the hardware and detach each foot.
- Set the old feet aside and clean any dirt or debris from the screw holes.
Take your time removing the feet to avoid stripping the screw holes. This prevents problems attaching the new ones.
Removal Tips
- Protect floors - Work on a scrap piece of wood or cardboard.
- Label hardware - Tape screws to each detached foot.
- Try penetrating oil - For stubborn screws.
- Discard broken feet - Bent or split feet cannot be reused.
Carefully detaching the old feet prepares the stool for easy and secure installation of the new replacement feet.