Why does my bowling ball crack? This is one of the most common questions asked by bowlers who have noticed small cracks in their ball’s coverstock. Since bowling balls are often highly expensive investments, it’s important to know how to prevent cracking and when it should be addressed immediately with your pro shop. Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about cracking and bowling balls.
Why Does a Bowling Ball Crack?
There are a few reasons why bowling balls crack
1. The bowling ball was dropped
2. The bowling ball sat in heat too long
3. There’s a scratch on your ball that you didn’t notice
4. Moisture can cause your bowling ball to crack
5. Sweating can cause your bowling ball to crack
Detailed Explanation: Why Do Bowling Balls Crack?
Here are the causes that’s why bowling ball cracks
The Bowling Ball Was Dropped
Dropping a bowling ball onto a hard surface can cause it to crack. If a bowling ball is dropped on another object, there’s no telling what impact that could have on its structure. Even dropping your bowling ball carelessly on your floor can cause damage, especially if it lands awkwardly. For that reason, you should avoid placing your bowling ball directly onto an uneven or unpadded surface, such as carpeting or concrete.
The Bowling Ball Sat In Heat Too Long
After a bowling ball has been drilled, it shouldn’t be left in heat longer than necessary. Leaving a ball in heat for long periods of time can cause its surface to warp, which is bad news because warping creates imperfections that can cause cracks. If you’re wondering how long is too long when it comes to leaving your bowling ball in heat, I’d recommend keeping it there for no more than five minutes after drilling and polishing.
There’s A Scratch On Your Ball That You Didn’t Notice
Because bowling balls get polished after drilling, there can be small scratches on their surface that are invisible to the naked eye. These tiny imperfections weaken your ball’s structure and make it vulnerable to cracks. To protect yourself from cracks caused by tiny scratches, always use a cover when you’re not using your ball. The cover will help keep dust out of any existing imperfections and prevent new ones from forming.
Moisture Can Cause Your Bowling Ball To Crack
Bowling balls that contain reactive resin will crack when they’re exposed to moisture, which is why it’s a good idea to store your ball in a dry environment. Whether you’re carrying your bowling ball in your bag or keeping it at home, you should avoid exposing it to dampness and direct sunlight. If your bowling ball isn’t stored properly and gets too wet, it’ll expand and create small cracks in its surface, similar to what happens when an orange gets overripe.
Sweating Can Cause Your Bowling Ball To Crack
Whether you’re bowling in a high-pressure competition or just enjoying a casual game with friends, your hands will likely sweat when you’re playing. Sweat and oil are known to damage reactive resin balls, which is why they shouldn’t be used in humid conditions or held by a person with sweaty hands. If you want to avoid cracks on your bowling ball’s surface, be sure to regularly clean it after using it and always wipe it off before use if your hands are sweating.
How to Prevent a Bowling Ball from Cracking
Use Good Quality Ball
Make sure you have a good quality bowling ball. A cheap bowling ball will not last long. If you’re going to be using the ball for a long time, you’ll want to make sure you get one that’s been well-maintained. It’s also important to make sure you have the right type of ball.
Keep It Dry
You should make sure your bowling ball is kept in a dry place. You don’t want to get it wet or have it in an area that gets too hot. You’ll also want to make sure you don’t put it in a humid place, as that can cause the ball to crack.
Make Sure You Clean It
Once you’ve made sure your ball is kept in the right place, you’ll need to make sure you clean it. You can use a damp cloth to wipe it down. You can also use a soft brush to scrub it. This will help to keep the ball in good condition.
Keep It Out Of Direct Sunlight
You should also make sure you don’t leave your bowling ball outside in direct sunlight. This will cause it to get hot and can lead to cracking.
Keep It In A Safe Place
If you’re going to be using your bowling ball on a regular basis, you’ll need to make sure you keep it in a safe place. You don’t want to leave it lying around where people could trip over it or knock it over.
Use A Bowling Ball Cover
You’ll need to use a bowling ball cover. This is because it will keep your bowling ball safe from damage.
Final thoughts
Regardless of why your bowling ball cracked, it is important to understand that cracks can mean any number of things. To keep your ball in tip-top shape, however, you should at least clean it after every use and monitor its general wear. In time, your ball may have to be repaired or replaced entirely. If you need help getting started with either process, be sure to talk with a professional as soon as possible!
