Bowling Lane Maintenance: What to Expect After Lane Shaving

Question
Hello Warren,

My local bowling alley has just shaved the
wood lanes. Could you tell me what kind of reaction
to expect this fall when league starts back up. Do scores
generally go up or down after the shaving process and what
should I be looking for to take advantage of fresh lanes?

    Thank you, Dan

Answer
Dan,
Your local center had the lanes sanded? The process cleans up the lane surfaces (removing wear, dents, and imperfections), tightens by freshly coating the wood surfaces, and freshens the approaches.

You should see slightly more skid (unless the cover/coating was changed). If you determine (ask them at the center) nothing has been changed (same oil, same pattern, same conditioning machine) you should be able to roll about the same path to the pocket as previously. Occasionally, your speed or rev rate creates a longer skid on the smoother tighter lane surfaces, but I'd suggest you roll some practice and (always) evaluate as you bowl. Never assume too much. So many little things can effect how a lane plays.

Thanks for the question. Good luck and good bowling.