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DIY: Replacing a basketball backboard with polycarbonate.

  • Nov 15, 2020
  • 2 min read

Are you thinking about replacing a basketball backboard that has been damaged or perhaps you are planning to make a new one from scratch? Polycarbonate is the ideal material to use for this project. It makes a safe, vandal-proof alternative to a glass basketball backboard.

# 1. A polycarbonate basketball backboard will not break

Did you know that polycarbonate is 250 times as strong as standard glass? A good choice of material for a basketball backboard that has to stand up to a lot of hard knocks. Also useful as a vandal-resistant solution for basketball boards on public basketball courts.

# 2. A transparent basketball backboard looks good

The advantage of a transparent basketball backboard is that you can see through it clearly and it is not dominant. And of course, it just looks good. If you’d like to make a transparent basketball backboard, for best choice of clear polycarbonate. Acrylic is less shock-resistant than polycarbonate. If you want to make a basketball backboard that is 100% vandal-proof, the best option is polycarbonate.

# 3. Polycarbonate basketball backboards are perfect for outdoors.

Polycarbonate is UV and weather-resistant. Thanks to these properties, your replacement baseball backboard will be resistant to weathering and yellowing and you can use it outside all year round.

# 4. Polycarbonate basketball backboards are fire retardant

Another advantage of a polycarbonate basketball backboard is that it is fire-resistant. Polycarbonate is flame-inhibiting, with a fire class of B1, so a polycarbonate basketball backboard won’t burn with an open flame. Polycarbonate is self-extinguishing.

# 5. Polycarbonate is easy to work with

It’s easy to saw, mill, glue and drill polycarbonate. Very handy if you want to replace a broken basketball board and need to process this material.

Ordering polycarbonate to make a replacement basketball backboard.

You can order polycarbonate in a range of different thickness, and dimensions from our website. We will cut all sheets to size for you free of charge. The official measurements of a basketball backboard are 6 feet wide x 3 1/2 feet tall. You could also make a smaller child’s version: for example 4 foot wide x 3 feet tall. In this case, you’d need a 6.4mm thick polycarbonate sheet. Not sure about the thickness? Check out our free solid thickness available.



About Our Polycarbonate Sheets

Key Benefits of Exolon® Monolithic Polycarbonate Sheets

Exolon® monolithic sheets offer an exceptional balance of physical and mechanical properties that remain stable across a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. Designed for durability, clarity, and performance, these sheets are ideal for both residential and commercial glazing applications.

Superior Alternative to Traditional Glazing

Exolon® polycarbonate sheets are a safer, lighter, and more cost-effective replacement for glass. They're nearly unbreakable, easy to cut and install, and reduce the overall weight of your structural framework—resulting in lower transportation, handling, and installation costs. This makes them the smart choice for modern construction and architectural projects.

UV Protection for Long-Term Performance

Unlike standard plastics, Exolon® sheets feature a protective UV-resistant layer that shields against the harmful effects of solar radiation. This added layer prevents yellowing, cracking, and degradation, ensuring long-term clarity and performance even in harsh weather conditions.

Perfect for Arched and Curved Glazing

All Exolon® monolithic sheets can be cold-formed to fit arched or curved glazing profiles. As long as the bend radius exceeds the manufacturer’s minimum recommendation, the mechanical properties of the sheet remain unaffected, ensuring both flexibility and strength.

Built to Last – Guaranteed for 15 Years

Backed by a 15-year performance guarantee, Exolon® polycarbonate sheets offer superior longevity and value. With resistance to impact, weather, and UV radiation, Exolon® stands out as the go-to material for high-performance glazing solutions.

For pricing, availability, or to request a quote for your next project using Exolon® sheets, contact us today.

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