Can You Repair a Broken Tennis Racket?

Most modern tennis rackets of decent quality are made of graphite composites tightly strung with natural gut or synthetic polymer strings. Because these rackets are manufactured using advanced techniques, most kinds of structural damage -- such as a cracked handle or frame -- can't be repaired at a cost less than that of buying a new racket. Some problems that can be repaired include a frayed grip, broken strings, grommets, and head guards.

Instructions

    • 1

      Check your racket for signs of structural damage. A large crack in the frame will be visible to the naked eye and will obviously compromise both the power and accuracy of your stroke. Other signs of severe damage include splintering, chipping, or squeaking when the racket makes contact with the ball.

    • 2

      Check your racket for signs of repairable damage. This may include loose or broken strings, loss of pressure, a frayed grip, or a crack in the removable head guard. These problems can be caused through normal wear and tear (rackets should be restrung about every six months for best performance) as well as by scuffing the head guard on the ground on low shots.

    • 3

      Fix the damage to your racket, if it is repairable. Restringing can be done by cutting the strings from the center (alternating main and cross strings), measuring the string, and clamping the racket to a stringing machine. Use an awl to repair and replace broken grommets and head guards during restringing. A frayed or loose grip can be fixed with a pair of needle-nose pliers, some scissors, and a staple gun.