So this whole mess started ’cause my backyard basketball hoop got destroyed in a storm last month. Figured if I’m building a new court, might as well put down real flooring. Went online and damn near choked seeing professional court install prices.
The Crazy Quote Phase
First dude came with shiny brochures pushing rubber cushion flooring. Talked about “shock absorption” this and “ankle protection” that. Quoted me five grand just for half-court! Laughed him right out my driveway.
- Checked traditional maple wood – yeah that looks dope but $40 per square foot?!
- Artificial turf? Nah gets too slippery when wet
- Plain concrete? Already got that and my knees hate it
Almost gave up till my neighbor Vinny said, “Yo check industrial auction sites for hevea rubber mats.” Who knew tire factories dump these sheets when they retool?
The DIY Struggle Bus
Won auction for 20 giant rubber slabs. Truck rental cost me $89. Nearly threw my back out unloading these 200-pound monsters. Screamed at my nephew to help while he filmed me struggling for his TikTok.
Leveled ground for two sweaty weekends:
- Borrowed compactor from Mike’s construction site
- Used laser level like I actually knew how it worked
- Sweat through three shirts mixing leveling compound
Nearly screwed up cutting patterns when my circular saw choked on rubber. Ended up using heavy duty carpet knife dipped in soapy water. Smelled like burnt tires for a week.
The Money Math Reality
Total damage to wallet:
- Rubber mats: $700 (auction steal!)
- Rental truck & tools: $200
- Adhesives & edging: $250
- Beer for helpers: $80
Grand total under $1,300. Compared to installer quotes? Saved like four grand easy.
Two months later? Floor’s holding up against rain and idiot teens doing skate tricks. Still smells faintly like tires when it gets hot though. Worth every penny saved and every backache earned.
Moral: Skip fancy flooring salesmen. Hunt auctions, beg favors, and sweat it out. Your bank account will thank you while your knees rebound shots without screaming.
