How to Restore a Fiberglass Basketball Backboard

After years of use, basketball backboards can become old and worn. The paint may become discolored and chipped from the ball hitting it repeatedly, which can be quite an eyesore. Instead of replacing the backboard, a cheap and easy way to fix it is to repaint the backboard. Fiberglass is normally painted with a fiberglass-based paint called gel coat. Gel coat, a fiberglass resin that is pigmented with color, will protect the backboard from sun exposure and water damage. Gel coat requires a catalyst in order to harden, but it can be applied like regular house paint.

Remove the backboard from the post and remove the basketball hoop from the backboard.

Put on a respirator and sand the entire backboard using a palm sander and 200-grit sandpaper. Scuff the old paint down until it's completely smooth and dull.

Clean the backboard using a clean rag and acetone. Remove any dust or other residues on the surface of the backboard.

Mix the gel coat and catalyst together in a small bucket, following the directions on the containers. Use a stir stick to thoroughly mix the gel coat. Evenly apply the gel coat to the backboard using an 8-inch felt roller 2. Let the gel coat harden for an hour or until it's hard to the touch.

Use painters tape to tape off the shooting box, which should be centered above the rim on the backboard. Make the line for the box 2 inches wide. The outside dimensions for the box should measure 24 inches horizontally and 18 inches vertically. Use four rows of tape outside and inside the box's line to keep from getting paint on the rest of the backboard.

Spray the square with red spray paint, holding the can at least 1 foot from the surface. Cover the area with paint and let it dry.

Remove the painters tape and rebolt the rim to the backboard.

Warnings

Always wear a respirator when working with fiberglass materials.