Most of us like to engage in our favorite pastimes when we’re not out working. Some of us revel in the outdoors, while others enjoy more indoor activities – your mileage may vary.
If you’re into hoops, a basketball game at home sounds like a great and fun way to while away a sunny afternoon. To that end, wall mount basketball systems may help you get your game on the right in your garage.
But before you can start shooting hoops, you need to know how to attach the system to your garage wall. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to do just that:
Tools You’ll Need
- A ladder
- Nuts and bolts
- Level
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Plumb line
- Drill and set of wrenches
- Stud finder
The Steps
- Nail the Right Spot
Let’s assume you’ve already purchased a kit that includes a wall mount, backboard, and rim. Start by finding the perfect spot for your hoop. Ensure enough space around it so you or other players can move and play freely.
Do your kids also want in on the action? Then, consider the appropriate height for your hoop. For instance, an 8 ft. hoop is ideal for a fifth grader, while a 9 ft. hoop works best for 6th graders. Alternatively, a 10 ft. hoop will suffice if you want a regulation-height net.
Use a measuring tape to determine how high the backboard’s center will be off the ground. From there, mark the location with a pencil.
Also, does your garage have at least 15 feet – from the wall and around the backboard? Then, you can mark a regulation free throw line, ensuring you have ample playing space.
- Prep Your Wall
Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs behind the drywall. Wall studs are integral to the support structure of your garage, so it’s essential to find and use them as attachment points for your hoop. If your garage wall is unfinished, you can quickly locate and use the studs for support.
Once you’ve found them, use a level to draw lines on the wall that correspond to the top and bottom of the backboard. Doing so helps ensure your backboard is positioned correctly and level once it’s hung on the wall.
- Drill Some Holes
Using the pre-drilled holes on the backboard as a guide, drill pilot holes into the studs for the wall mount. Wall mounts are L- or U-shaped brackets that secure the backboard to the wall. Most kits come with wall mounts, but if yours doesn’t, you can easily purchase one at a local hardware store.
These pilot holes make driving in your lag bolts easier to secure the backboard to the wall without splitting the stud. Once the pilot holes are in place, remove the backboard and set it aside.
Then, install your wall mount. If your kit includes nuts and bolts, drill holes the same size as your bolts, after which you can bolt the mount.
- Secure the Backboard to the Wall Mount
Now that you have the wall mount in place, it’s time to secure the backboard using nuts and bolts. Wall mounts typically have two to four attachment points. For added stability, it’s best to use all attachment points if possible. To hang your backboard:
- Align the holes on the wall mount with the pre-drilled holes on the backboard.
- Insert the bolts through the holes and thread on the washers and nuts.
- Don’t overtighten the bolts, as this can strip the threads.
Some people prefer a set with a backboard pre-fitted to the wall mount. These are great because they’re easier and faster to install. If yours is in separate pieces, you can install the mount, then the backboard, followed by the rim. The approach you opt for doesn’t matter, provided you get the job done.
- Install the Rim
Wall mount systems typically come with rims, but you can purchase one separately if needed. Plus, such hoops typically include a breakaway rim. This type of rim sports a spring-loaded mechanism that allows it to “give” when players dunk the ball, thereby preventing the backboard from shattering.
Also, most rims have two mounting holes on each side of the backboard. To install your rim:
- Insert the bolts through the holes on the backboard.
- If necessary, use wall anchors for additional support.
- Thread on the washers and nuts, and tighten them with a wrench.
Again, avoid overtightening the bolts, as doing so can make it difficult to remove the rim later on. Once the bolts or screws are in place, add the net, and you’re good to go.
- Make Final Checks
Once the backboard, wall mount, and rim are in place, make a few final checks. For starters, measure from the top to the bottom of the board – at both ends – to ensure levelness. The distance should be the same at both ends.
Also, check that the wall mount is secure by giving it a good shake. It shouldn’t budge. If it does, remove the backboard and add more bolts or wall anchors to secure it.
While at it, ensure the rim is level by hanging a plumb line from the screw eyes on either side of the board. The plumb line should fall directly in the center of the rim.
Enjoy Shooting Some Hoops
For a job well done, pat yourself on the back. Then, get out there and give your setup a try. After all, the proof of the pudding is… So, a few shots won’t hurt to see how your system holds up.
And with a bit of practice, you’ll be shooting hoops like a pro. Then, you can invite some of your friends and show them ‘who’s boss’ on your mini-court. But when it comes to dunking, take it easy on that backboard. And, if you have kids, make sure they understand the importance of not hanging on the rim or backboard, as this could cause serious injury.
Exercise caution when climbing a ladder and drill slowly to avoid splitting the wood. Other than that, installing a wall mount hoop system is a relatively straightforward process most people can complete in the afternoon. Just follow the steps above, and you can have your hoop in no time. If you’re yet to shop, go ahead and order that hoop system you’ve been fancying for a while – you deserve it, and so does your inner pro.
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