A basketball hoop above a garage door is an incredibly fun addition to any home. Unfortunately, not everyone has space for a full one. Even if it does fit, it may not be practical. That is where the driveway comes in.
A backboard above the garage gives you plenty of space to play without obstructing any other parts of your home. While hanging one may seem like a daunting task, it is much easier than it first seems.
Anyone, regardless of their DIY experience, can get a solid hoop up on their garage in no time at all. It just takes a little know how and elbow grease.
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Mapping Out the Plan
The first step in hanging a basketball hoop is making sure you have the correct tools. The project requires a ladder, stud finder, marker, screwdriver, and level.
You may need a few extra items depending on your specific backboard (always check the instructions) but the ones listed above will cover most projects.
Next, you have to decide where your hoop will go. While you want it on the garage, it does no good to throw it up on the wall. The placement should be in a space that is both reinforced and allows space for people to play.
Always make sure your mounting surface is solid. To do that, get a ladder (preferably with someone holding at the bottom) and use a stud-finder to locate studs. That will ensure your bolts stay stuck and are able to handle the stress of a ball hitting the rim over and over.
You also want to make sure your mounting space is flat and away from the roof life.
After those marks are met you next want to decide your hoop’s height. Regulation size is ten feet from the ground, but that can be adjusted if you have kids. Just be sure the hoop does not hang in a way where it will interfere with the mechanisms of the garage door.
Putting Up the Hoop
Once you’ve found the perfect spot for your hoop and gathered your different tools, you need to outline where the brackets and mounts will go.
Following the instructions for your specific hoop, use a dark pen (blue or back) to place small x’s on the wall where you’re planning on putting in screws. This may seem like a small step, but it will make everything much easier down the line.
After you have everything in place, simply set the brackets according to your hoop’s instructions. Once that’s done, go back over any holes with a caulking gun or spackle. That will create a water-resistant seal that prevents rust.
Finally, step back and look at the backboard to make sure everything is in order. If it is off, simply adjust the height and level so they meet your preferences.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Though some hoops don’t come with a mounting kit, you should always get one with everything included. That will save steps and make the process much easier as you go along
Double check that your backboard kit is for garages. Some hoops are only for basketball poles. Those will not work on the side of your house.
Fastening your backboard to studs adds extra security and is always better than just screwing or drilling it into the wall.
It is best to install your backboard with a helper. Many of the necessary materials are heavy, and it can be dangerous to move them up a ladder by yourself.
Make sure that everything, including the net and rim, is on tight. Even a bit of looseness will cause the ball to bounce in odd directions.
Fun for the Whole House
It does not matter if you want it for practice, games, knock-out, horse, or just a few shots after dinner, a basketball hoop above a garage is an endless source of fun. It’s great for families, individuals, and friend groups alike.
While, like most DIY projects, it can be a bit intimidating, hanging a hoop is simple once you know the different steps.
Following the path listed in this guide, in addition to going over the tips and tricks, will enable you to have one up at your house in no time at all.
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