How to Make a 10 Pin Bowling Lane From Wood

Most people who enjoy playing 10 pin bowling do so at a bowling alley. However, you could build your own wooden bowling lane at home. Creating your own lane could be quite simple.

Things You'll Need

  • Tongue and groove wood (usually maple)
  • Level
  • Vapor barrier
  • Sander
  • Polyurethane glossy varnish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the space for the bowling lane area, which should be 62 feet 10 3/16ths inches long for a regulation size lane. The width for a regulation size lane should be between 41 and 42 inches

    • 2

      Check the area with a level where the lane will be laid to determine if it is level. If it is not, place flooring patches to fill in uneven area to make the area level.

    • 3

      Lay a vapor barrier on the measured lane space. This vapor barrier will prevent any damage to the wooden lane from moisture.

    • 4

      Lay the maple wood down the length of the lane. The wood pieces should not align. They should be offset, staggering the joints in order to strengthen the lane.

    • 5

      Sand any rough spots of the wood with a sander to create a smooth surface.

    • 6

      Coat the wooden lane with a high-gloss polyurethane varnish to finish the wooden lane.