Basketball Backboards – Acrylic Backboards Vs Glass Backboards
Website design By BotEap.comWhen watching the basketball game, viewers probably don’t give much thought to what type of backboard is being used. The backboard is, in fact, one of the most important parts of a basketball system. Although glass backboards have long been considered the best backboards, acrylic backboards have many of the same characteristics.
Website design By BotEap.comIf you stand several feet away and look at a board, you may not be able to tell the difference between an acrylic and a glass one. Both are clear, both come in the same sizes, and both have the contour markings and shooter’s square. When you throw the ball and go for a rebound, that’s where you see the difference.
Website design By BotEap.comGlass backboards are the backboards used by professionals. Professional-style tabletops are made from ½-inch-thick tempered glass. The outline of the board and the shooter’s bracket are etched into the glass so they won’t wear off. A regulation size backboard is 42″ x 72″, but glass backboards come in many different sizes. They are dent and scratch resistant and do not collect dust.
Website design By BotEap.comWhat’s good about glass? The main reason pros love glass is because of the way the ball interacts with the glass. Bounces bounce off immediately and crisply. There is practically no reverberation with glass. The glass won’t dent, so there’s no need to worry about the ball hitting a dent or gouge. Players know exactly what to expect from a glass backboard.
Website design By BotEap.comOne of the only drawbacks of a glass tabletop is the possibility of breaking. Although breaking a backboard is not the point of a slam dunk, it is possible with enough force to break a glass backboard. With breakaway goals, the probability is lower, but still possible. There are certain types of glass table tops available that are guaranteed not to break. However, the risk of breaking does not compare to the excellent interaction of the ball.
Website design By BotEap.comRecently, acrylic boards have come into play. Tabletops that are made of cast acrylic are very similar to glass tabletops, but cheaper. Cast acrylic is one of the strongest forms of acrylic manufactured today. It is virtually tooth resistant. Most acrylic boards come with steel frames for added stability. This framework is very important for proper interaction with the ball.
Website design By BotEap.comFor a glass-like tabletop feel, look for a ½-inch-thick acrylic tabletop. If the acrylic is too thick, the ball will not respond in the same way. Although acrylic tabletops are cheaper, they will need to be replaced sooner than a glass tabletop. They are also more difficult to keep clean as dirt can get into the grooves.
Website design By BotEap.comIf you’re on a budget, an acrylic board will definitely do the job. It has a good interaction with the ball and is durable and resistant. But, if you’re looking for increased durability and more consistency, a glass tabletop is the way to go.