Home >> Games & Cards >> Games

How to Mount a Basketball Backboard

Basketball backboards are an essential part of the game of basketball. They hold the hoop in place and provide a surface to bounce the ball from. Before installing a backboard, it is necessary to choose whether to hang the backboard onto a flat surface, such as the side of a wall, or on a traditional pole. Make sure the site is ready for the installation of the backboard, for example, install the pole into the ground or make sure there are no electrical wires or pipes running through the chosen installation site. To make this project easier, make sure a friend or helper is on hand to help with the installation.

Things You'll Need

Wrench
Ratchet set
Large bolts
Flat surface or long pole
Ladder
Measuring tape
Washers
Nuts
Power drill
Chalk
Screw anchors
Power screwdriver
Backboard bracket

Instructions

Wall Hanging
- 1
  Measure 10 feet from ground level. Mark this measurement on the wall with chalk. Measure the height and width of the basketball backboard. Mark the outline of the backboard on the wall as well.
- 2
  Drill four holes into the wall about 1 inch away from each corner edge of the basketball backboard. If necessary, drill holes into the backboard as well.
- 3
  Place a screw anchor into each of the holes that you have drilled into the wall. Twist the anchor until it opens.
- 4
  Climb the ladder and have a friend hand you the backboard. Have the friend hold the backboard in place while you screw the backboard to the wall. Add a washer to the back of each screw to prevent the screws from damaging the backboard. Screw the screws in tightly to prevent the backboard from falling.
Pole Hanging
- 5
  Screw the backboard mount to the back of the backboard using the wrench or ratchet set. Make sure a washer sits over the back of each screw or bolt to protect the backboard.
- 6
  Climb the ladder and slip the bracket onto the pole. Have a friend hold the backboard in place while you continue to attach the backboard.
- 7
  Screw the bolts into the bracket around the pole to prevent it from moving. Some brackets surround the pole, and screwing it in tightens the bracket and prevents the backboard from slipping down the pole. Other poles have a square attachment that the backboard attaches to. Screwing this into place secures the backboard from falling. Tighten the screws as much as possible to prevent damage to the backboard or players.

Games