Installing a hardwood basketball court floor is a meticulous process that ensures playability, safety, and longevity. Here's a clean, step-by-step guide:

1. Site assessment and preparation

Test concrete slab for moisture and flatness. It must be at least 60 days cured, flat within ⅛ inch over ten feet, and dry per ASTM standards. If not, work with the general contractor to meet these requirements to avoid defects and bounce issues later .

2. Environmental control and acclimation

Activate HVAC to maintain relative humidity between 35 and 50 percent and temperature between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Let hardwood boards acclimate by laying them out for about a week until moisture stabilizes .

3. Install subfloor and moisture barrier

Place a moisture barrier over concrete. Install engineered substructure—plywood or premium hardwood sheathing—for shock absorption and structural integrity.

4. Lay and nail hardwood planks

“Rack out” planks in a puzzle pattern and let them settle. After acclimation, nail maple boards into the subfloor, preserving recommended expansion gaps to prevent buckling when humidity changes.

5. Sand and seal

Sand the floor in three stages—coarse, medium, fine—for smoothness. Apply at least two coats of MFMA‑approved sealer, then two coats of finish. Allow drying time between coats .

6. Paint game lines and logos

After sealing, paint court markings and any logos. Finish with top coats over graphics to encapsulate paint and ensure durability .

7. Final cure and inspection

Allow 72 hours before foot traffic and 7 to 10 days before moving equipment onto the court . Inspect expansion gaps, bounce consistency, surface smoothness, and visual uniformity.

Why follow this method

Concrete imperfections and moisture problems cause bounce issues, gaps, or cupping. Proper acclimation and subfloor systems ensure shock absorption and consistent performance.

FAQ

Q: How long does installation take?
It usually spans six weeks—from site prep to final curing.

Q: Why acclimate wood planks?
Hardwood expands and contracts with humidity. If nailed before acclimation, gaps or buckling may occur .

Q: What climate conditions are needed?
Maintain relative humidity between 35–50 percent and temperature between 55–75°F, with fluctuations less than 15 percent .

Q: Is professional installation essential?
Yes. Certified installers adhere to MFMA and ASTM standards and ensure safety, performance, and warranty compliance .

Q: When should refinishing occur?
Schedule an annual screen and recoat. Perform a full sand and repaint every 7 to 10 years depending on use.