Different Ways to Resurface a Bowling Ball

The pores of a blowing ball pick up various debris, dirt and oil each time it rolls down a bowling lane. Because of this, a bowling ball's capacity to generate friction changes, making it harder to control. For this reason, experts recommend that sanding and resurfacing bowling balls should be done regularly, specifically after around 30-40 games. There are several ways to resurface a bowling ball, with each type providing the ball a different characteristic.

  1. Sanding Against the Ball's Track

    • To restore the bowling ball's original manufacturer specification, use Abralon pads of medium to coarse grain quality. When sanding the ball, look for the ball's natural track and sand against it. Sand one portion of the ball for 30 to 40 seconds, before repeating the same procedure on another side. When sanding, apply water frequently to wash off loose particles in both the sandpaper and the ball.

    Sanding Along the Track

    • If you want your bowling ball to slide in the first portion of the lane or the head and achieve more length, sand the bowling ball along its initial track. Do this using single sanding strokes, with each stroke strictly following original lines along the ball's initial track. Sanding should again take 30 to 40 seconds per area, with continuous water application to ensure that loose particles are washed off.

    Sanding on a Crisscross

    • Sanding the entire bowling ball using the crisscross or "bow-tie" technique gives the ball a more aggressive initial response when it lands and becomes consistent in its trajectory when it reaches the middle of the lane. Crisscross resurfacing means sanding the ball against the initial track first and then sanding it again along the track. Use a wet Abralon pad with a lower grit of 600 to 800 when doing crisscross resurfacing.

    Finishing Off

    • When you finish sanding the entire ball, make sure to remove all debris by spraying water all over it. Do not use any type of abrasive material, unless the product was made specifically for resurfacing bowling balls. Use a clean cotton cloth to clean the ball or use a cleaning machine if available.