How Is the Glass Attached to the Metal for Backboards?

General Information

• Backboards are made from a variety of materials, including Plexiglas, acrylic and graphite. NBA backboards are made from tempered glass and provide more bounce for rebound. The glass may break, but safety precautions are taken to securely mount the backboard to the frame to prevent this problem. You may attach the backboard to the metal frame with an aluminum extrusion, adhesive bonding agent or nuts and bolts.

Aluminum Extrusion

• You can attach glass boards to the metal frame with an aluminum extrusion, a piece of support that goes under the bottom and a portion of the sides of the backboard. It helps to hold the backboard in place and stabilizes the backboard. Predrilled holes in the extrusion provide an area to attach the fasteners into the aluminum extrusion and the post to permanently mount the extrusion to the post.

Adhesive Bonding Agent

• You also can attach backboards to the metal frame with a strong adhesive bonding agent that is specially designed to use with glass. This type of adhesive product can sometimes adhere within seconds after it is exposed to ultraviolet light, an activator or heat. For that reason, you should apply it to the glass and quickly set in place before being exposed to the light, activator or heat source.

Nuts and Bolts

• Some glass backboards come with predrilled holes in the glass. You must then lift the heavy backboard with the use of a hand-crank lift or scaffolding. You must hold the backboard in an upright position and insert the bolts and nuts that are included with the backboard packaging.