How often should a hardwood basketball court be recoated?

A hardwood basketball court should be recoated according to its condition and documented maintenance guidance, not automatically after one universal number of months or years. Use intensity, cleaning quality, finish wear, traction, game-line condition, and event use to set the schedule.

Inspect the court regularly under consistent lighting. Look for dull or worn traffic zones, exposed markings, changes in cleaning response, scratches, contamination, and uneven surface behavior. High-use facilities, multipurpose events, bleachers, or inadequate soil control can shorten the interval, while careful operation may extend it. Recoating early enough can renew protection before wear reaches the wood, but applying a new coat over contamination or an incompatible surface can create adhesion problems.

Keep maintenance and inspection records, and follow the current instructions for the installed finish. Before recoating, a qualified contractor should confirm surface preparation, product compatibility, curing time, ventilation, and the required downtime. Areas with deeper damage may need repair or refinishing instead.