A standard table is typically 28-to-30 inches high from the floor to the table top. Cafe, or bar-height tables are between 40 and 42 inches high, so you will need to extend your table legs by between 12 and 14 inches. Choose a table with straight legs, as angled legs are not safe to extend.
Things You Will Need
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Choose bolt-in prefab table legs in a style that matches your table. These legs are designed to thread into a threaded pocket in the bottom of a table to replace damaged legs. Make sure your legs are at least 12 inches long. Select T-bolts with the same thread as your table leg bolts.
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Paint or stain your legs to match the table. Use a fine bristle brush to apply two coats of semigloss latex paint, or all-in-one stain and finish. Work in long straight strokes with the grain. Spread the finish as evenly as possible to prevent runs and drips. Allow the label-recommended drying time between coats and allow the legs to dry completely before installing them.
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Turn your table upside down. Remove the nylon glides, or metal nails in the foot of the legs with a chisel and hammer. Tap the chisel under the edge of the nail and pry it up to remove it.
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Drill a 5/16-inch hole in the center of each table leg, keeping your drill in line with the angle of the table leg to a depth of 1 inch. Blow the dust from the hole. Drive a T-bolt into each hole. Tap the T-bolt in, then anchor it by twisting clockwise with a large, flat-blade screwdriver.
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Measure and cut your legs to length, cutting off the bottom end to the desired height on a miter saw. Thread the bolt of a leg into each T-bolt and tighten them by hand.
The Drip Cap
- Cafe tables are a common sight these days, from coffee shops to restaurants to home kitchens and dining spaces.
- Choose bolt-in prefab table legs in a style that matches your table.
- Blow the dust from the hole.
- Thread the bolt of a leg into each T-bolt and tighten them by hand.