Storing your bowling ball properly is important to keep it in good condition. If you leave it in too cold conditions, will it crack? We did the research to bring you the answer.

Cold temperatures under 48 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the coverstock of your bowling ball. The material that makes up the coverstock is designed to become more brittle in cold weather. So if you leave your bowling ball in your car or garage in the winter, it can cause the cover to crack.

Bowling balls may be hard, but they aren't indestructible. This article will explain why cold temperatures will cause your bowling ball to crack. In addition, we will also answer other frequently asked questions about storing a bowling ball, so keep reading!

Will A Bowling Ball Crack In The Cold?

Bowling balls can be made from various materials, including plastic, urethane, and reactive resin. The end result is a hard, durable ball that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. However, all materials have their limits.

Cold temperatures below 48 degrees Fahrenheit can damage the coverstock of your bowling ball. The coverstock of a bowling ball will become more brittle in cold weather. As a result, the ball starts to crack, which is called phasing.

Phasing is a chemical reaction that happens when the molecules in the coverstock of your bowling ball start to slow down. The molecules become less flexible and more likely to break when this happens.

So, if you live in a region where the winters are cold, it's best to store your bowling ball indoors. Even if you accidentally leave your ball in the garage or car for one cold night, it can still suffer from phasing.

Even if you don't live in cold climates, leaving your bowling ball in the garage or car isn't good. The fluctuation of temperatures will cause the bowling ball to shrink and expand, which will wear down over time. 

How Can I Store My Bowling Ball In The Winter?

If you live in a region with cold winters, the best way to store your bowling ball is indoors. You can keep it in your home or at the bowling alley.

Ideal storage conditions for a bowling ball are cool and dry. This means that you should avoid storing your ball in direct sunlight or in a humid environment. Instead, the best place is to leave it in your home, where the temperature is controlled.

The best way to store your bowling ball is in a bag designed to store bowling balls. These bags typically have a layer of padding on the inside to protect the ball from bumps and scrapes.

If you don't have a bowling ball bag, you can store your ball in a microfiber towel or a pillowcase.

Does Hot Weather Affect A Bowling Ball?

Hot weather can also damage your bowling ball. Prolonged exposure to temperatures over 120 degrees Fahrenheit can cause your ball's coverstock to break down. When the ball becomes softer, it will give it more hook, making it harder to control. 

When the coverstock breaks down, it becomes sticky and can attract dirt and dust. This can cause your ball to become dirty and difficult to clean. In addition, the heat can cause the ball to lose its color and become brittle.

If you live in a region where the summers get very hot, it's best not to leave your bowling ball in your car or the garage.

Can Bowling Balls Melt?

Bowling balls are made from a thermal setting resin. This means that the molecules in the ball are designed to stay together even when exposed to high temperatures.

So even if you take a blow torch to a bowling ball, it won't go to a liquid form. However, as mentioned earlier, the hot temperatures will ruin the bowling ball.

Do Bowling Balls Shrink?

Not only do cold temperatures pose a risk of your bowling ball cracking but they can also cause the ball to shrink. This is because the molecules in the ball will contract in cold weather, which can cause the ball to become smaller.

If you accidentally leave your bowling ball in your car overnight when the temperatures drop, you may find that the ball doesn't fit your fingers the next day.

Even if your bowling ball expands once it is warmed up, it may not return to its original size. This is why it's important to store your ball in a cool, dry place.

How Long Does A Bowling Ball Last?

A bowling ball can last for many years (5-10) if properly cared for. However, the coverstock of the ball will eventually break down and need to be replaced.

The core of the ball may also become damaged over time. You will need to have the ball drilled again to fit your fingers if this happens.

When To Replace Your Bowling Ball

You will know it's time to replace your bowling ball when the performance starts to decline. If the ball isn't hooking like it used to, or if it is cracking, it's time for a new one.

It's also a good idea to get a new ball if you've had yours for more than 5 years. The materials in the ball will start to break down and affect your game.

Lastly, if the bowling ball doesn't fit your fingers anymore, it's time for a new one. When your fingers are too tight in the ball, it can affect your grip and your aim. It can also cause an injury to your hand.

Getting a new bowling ball is a good way to improve your game and keep your scores high.

What Can You Do With Old Bowling Balls?

If your bowling ball has reached the end of its life, you can do a few things with it. Let's take a look:

Donate It

You can donate your old bowling ball to a local bowling alley or pro shop. They may be able to use it for practice or for beginners. In addition, if you know someone who is just starting to bowl, you can give them your old ball.

Decorations

Another popular option is to use your old bowling ball as a decoration. You can paint it, add some glitter, or even put LED lights inside of it. You'd be surprised how many cool ideas you can find online.

Recycle It

If you're not interested in keeping or reusing your old bowling ball, you can recycle it. Most pro shops and bowling alleys have a recycling program for balls. You can also check with your local recycling center to see if they accept bowling balls.

Repair It

If you can't bear to part with your old bowling ball, you can try to repair it. This is only an option if the damage is minor. For example, if the ball has a small crack, you may be able to have it repaired.

However, if the damage is major, such as a large crack or a hole, it's best to get a new ball.

Whether you're a beginner or a pro, it's important to take care of your bowling ball. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your ball and improve your game.

Sell It

If you're not interested in keeping or repairing your old bowling ball, you can sell it. You can try a few places, such as online classifieds, consignment shops, or even garage sales.

You may be able to get a few dollars for your ball, which can go towards the purchase of a new one.

As you can see, there are a few different options for what to do with your old bowling ball. You can keep, donate, or recycle your bowling ball, or you can even turn it into a decoration.

How Much Is A Bowling Ball?

The cost of a new bowling ball depends on the brand, type, and size. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $40-$300 for a new ball.

The good news is that once you have a ball, you can use it for many years. However, it may only be worth buying a bowling ball if you play a lot.

If you only bowl a few times a year, renting a ball from the alley may be better. This way, you don't have to worry about storing or caring for a ball. Plus, it will keep some money in your pocket.

When it comes to bowling balls, there are a few things you need to consider. The cost, the size, the type, how often you play, and the brand. Once you've considered all of these factors, you can decide if a new ball is right for you.

Final Thoughts

Bowling balls might come across as invincible, unbreakable objects. However, cold and extremely hot temperatures are their kryptonite. If you want your bowling ball to last, it's best to store it in a cool, dry place and in a storage bag.

Do you like bowling? Here are other articles that might interest you:

5 Types Of Bowling Balls For Different Lane Conditions

How Long Does A Reactive Resin Bowling Ball Last? (Compared To Urethane)

Can You Use Windex On A Bowling Ball?