Can You Resurface A Urethane Bowling Ball?

Bowling enthusiasts know the importance of maintaining their bowling balls to stay at the top of their game.

One essential aspect of ball maintenance is resurfacing, especially for urethane bowling balls, which offer unique benefits and playability in various lane conditions.

In this comprehensive guide, discover why resurfacing your urethane ball is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and durability – whether you’re a casual player or a seasoned pro aiming for that next strike.

Let’s take a closer look.

Can You Resurface A Urethane Bowling Ball?

Yes, you can resurface your urethane bowling balls. And there are a lot of benefits to doing so.

Below, we will take a look at the benefits first before diving into the step-by-step guide.

Improved Ball Reaction And Performance

Resurfacing your urethane bowling ball can significantly improve its reaction and performance on the lanes. When a ball has been used extensively, it may develop track marks or scratches that can cause it to lose traction and hook unpredictably.

Additionally, resurfacing allows you to adjust your ball’s surface texture to better suit varying lane conditions. For example, adding a matte finish with higher-grit sandpaper will create more friction on dry lanes, while polishing with lower-grit sandpaper creates less friction for oily lanes.

The ability to customize this aspect of your bowling ball is crucial in maximizing its potential for success.

Enhanced Durability And Lifespan

Another benefit of resurfacing your urethane bowling ball is that it enhances the durability and lifespan of the ball. Over time, a bowling ball’s surface can become worn down from regular use on the lanes, causing it to lose its original performance capabilities.

This process not only improves the overall appearance of your bowling ball but also helps to extend its lifespan by preventing premature wear and tear. With proper maintenance and storage, a well-resurfaced urethane bowling ball can last for many years while maintaining optimal performance on the lanes.

Cost-Effective Alternative To Purchasing A New Ball

Resurfacing your urethane bowling ball is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new ball. Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a brand-new ball, resurfacing can enhance the performance and durability of your current one.

Not only does resurfacing save money in the long run, but it also allows you to maintain a consistent feel and performance from your favorite ball. With proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and polishing, resurfaced balls can provide years of reliable use.

How To Resurface Your Urethane Bowling Ball

Preparation And Cleaning

Before resurfacing your urethane bowling ball, proper preparation and cleaning are essential for optimal results. Start by thoroughly cleaning the ball with a high-quality bowling ball cleaner and towel to remove any dirt, oil, or debris from its surface.

Next, inspect the ball for any scratches or abrasions and address them accordingly before starting the resurfacing process.

By properly preparing and cleaning your urethane bowling ball before resurfacing it, you will be able to achieve a smoother finish with improved performance.

Sanding And Polishing

For the sanding and polishing stage of resurfacing your urethane bowling ball, it’s important to start with a clean surface. You can use an Abralon or Scotchbrite pad to gently remove any dirt or debris from the ball’s coverstock.

Next, using a spinner or handheld sander, apply 320-grit sandpaper evenly around the surface of the bowling ball until it feels smooth.

Once you have sanded the ball down, it’s time for polishing.

Remember that proper cleaning and maintenance are essential for maintaining optimal performance throughout your game.

Techniques For Different Types Of Urethane Balls

When resurfacing urethane bowling balls, it is important to consider the type of ball being worked on. Solid urethane balls with a smooth surface can be sanded with 320-grit sandpaper and then polished to restore their surface texture.

For example, pearlized urethane balls have small pores that can trap oil and cause the ball to lose its reaction over time. To properly resurface these types of balls, a scotchbrite pad or Abralon pad should be used instead of sandpaper.

In contrast, reactive resin urethane balls require a different approach during resurfacing as they have an entirely different cover material than solid urethane balls. Resin is much softer than urethane so less aggressive abrasives are needed during sanding to avoid removing too much material from the coverstock.

By understanding each type of urethane bowling ball’s unique properties and qualities when resurfacing them, bowlers can prolong their lifespan while maintaining optimal performance on various lane conditions.

Application Of Resin And Oil Absorption

After resurfacing your urethane bowling ball, it’s important to apply a resin finish to restore the ball’s oil absorption capabilities. This process involves using a reactive resin that seeps into the coverstock, improving its reaction on the lane and increasing overall performance.

Oil absorption is critical in achieving optimal lane traction, allowing the ball to roll smoothly and accurately toward its target. Urethane balls have a lower oil absorption rate than other types of balls, which makes them ideal for dry lanes.

Tips For Maintaining Your Bowling Balls

Regular Cleaning And Polishing

As a bowler, it’s crucial to maintain your bowling balls regularly. Regular cleaning and polishing can help keep your ball in top condition and extend its lifespan.

To clean your urethane bowling ball, use a microfiber towel or a gentle cleaner specifically designed for bowling balls.

Polishing is also important as it helps restore shine to the surface of the ball, which can improve performance. Using an abrasive pad or polish on the surface of the ball removes dirt buildup that may affect its reaction on the lanes.

For optimal results, you can use different levels of grit depending on how much polishing is needed.

Proper Storage And Maintenance

As important as it is to resurface your urethane bowling ball, proper storage, and maintenance are key factors in maintaining optimal performance. Always store your balls in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.

Heat can cause the coverstock to expand and alter the ball’s reaction to the lanes. Additionally, avoid dropping or banging your ball against hard surfaces as this can damage the surface of the ball and hinder performance.

It’s also crucial to regularly clean your bowling balls after each use to keep them performing their best. A simple solution of water and dish soap can be used with a microfiber towel or chamois cloth for cleaning purposes.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could strip away essential oils from the coverstock, which adversely affects its performance over time.

Avoiding Extreme Temperatures

It’s important to take care of your urethane bowling ball by ensuring it remains at a consistent temperature. Extreme heat or cold can damage the coverstock and affect the ball’s performance.

For example, storing your balls in a hot car trunk during summer months can result in cracks, dents, or warping.

To avoid these issues, always store your bowling balls in a cool and dry place at room temperature. Never leave them outside in extreme weather conditions for extended periods of time.

Additionally, be sure not to expose them to sudden changes in temperature that can cause shock and stress on the material.

Last updated on June 11, 2023