Fusion Bowling Pre Construction Guide 111005

Custom Boutique & Residential Bowling Alleys
Pre-Construction Guide
Fusion Bowling
7990 Baymeadows Rd E, Ste 215
Jacksonville, FL 32256
www.FusionBowling.com
hello@fusionbowling.com
904-701-BOWL (2695)
Copyright © Fusion Bowling Services, LLC. All rights reserved.
Revised 10/5/2011.
Table of Contents
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 3
Area ................................................................................................................................... 3
Ceiling ................................................................................................................................ 5
Installation Access .................................................................................................................. 7
Foundation ........................................................................................................................... 7
Walls ................................................................................................................................. 10
Lighting .............................................................................................................................. 12
Electrical Power .................................................................................................................... 13
Site Preparation .................................................................................................................... 14
Technical Illustrations .................................................................................................... Appendix
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Introduction
Thank you for your interest in Fusion Bowling! We are the only company in the world that specializes in custom
boutique and residential bowling alley amenities. Unlike customers who deal with commercial bowling centers,
our customers generally need more guidance since they are typically not in “the bowling business”. One of the
things we take pride in is the free help and pre-construction consultation we provide. The various photos
depicted in this guide can be used to draw inspiration for ideas of your own. We hope this guide provides helpful
information as you prepare for your bowling alley.
Individual sections of this guide are interrelated and part of a whole, and should not be taken out of context. We
are not responsible or liable for problems or errors that occur based solely on this guide. This guide is not
intended to be a comprehensive instruction manual, but rather a list of common considerations. Before making
any design or construction decisions, please contact us for free consultation at 904-701-BOWL (2695) or
hello@fusionbowling.com. Thank you once again for your interest in Fusion Bowling!
Area
Length
Bowling equipment length
The total length of regulation bowling equipment from the front of the approach 1 to the back of the pinsetter
machine is 83 feet, 2 inches. The approach is 16 feet long; the lane (from the foul line 2 to the back of the pin
deck) is 63 feet, and the pinsetter machine adds another 4 feet 2 inches. However, that’s not the whole story…
Service aisle length

Two variable distances must be added to the length of the
bowling equipment. First, a service aisle is necessary to allow
access to the back of the pinsetter machines for maintenance and
repair. Fusion Bowling recommends a 5 foot service aisle. The
bigger the service aisle, the easier and safer it will be to maintain
the pinsetter machines. A larger service aisle can double as a
storage area for lane maintenance supplies and accessories.
Seating area length

Secondly, it is customary to provide a bowlers’ seating area in
front of the approach. For one- or two-lane residential bowling
alleys that simply need one forward-facing sofa or row of chairs,
the seating area could be as short as 6 feet or less. For lanes that Service aisle behind pinsetter
will be used by larger groups of bowlers, this area should be machines. Larger aisles are safer and
expanded to about 12 feet or more. The size of the bowlers’ can double as storage space.
seating area is also dependent on the size and orientation of
furnishings, as well as the intended circulation of people into and
through the area. To be safe, an interior designer or architect should design this area using actual dimensions of
the furniture which will be installed. It should also be noted that, in the case of one- or two-lane residential
settings, the seating area could be located next to the approach, in which case the additional length required
for the seating area would be reduced to zero. However, this unorthodox arrangement is not recommended. The
1
The approach is the 16-foot long portion of floor on which the bowler walks forward toward the bowling lane
while winding up to release the ball.
2
The foul line separates the approach from the bowling lane. The bowler’s shoe may not cross the foul line.
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seating area should not be arranged in such a manner where the spectators must cross over the playing area to
gain access.
Component Minimum Preferred

length length
Bowling alley 83’2” 83’2”
Service aisle 3’ 5’
Seating area 0’ 12’
Totals 86’2” 100’2”
Residential bowling alleys require less space for Having more room for furniture allows greater
furniture. comfort for larger groups.
Width
Bowling alleys with fewer lanes, whose space is not designed well, tend to appear as unattractive long tunnels.
There are several ways to mitigate this unwanted effect, including adding mirrors, wall murals, or windows.
However, the most effective way is to simply add more width to the room.
Bowling equipment width

Calculating the overall width of several adjacent bowling lanes is not as easy as multiplying the number of lanes
by a constant. First, the capping material on the gutters 3 of the far left and far right lanes are not shared with
any adjacent lane (unlike all the inner lanes). Secondly, the capping material that covers the under-lane ball
return track between each pair of lanes is wider than the capping material between pairs of lanes. As you will
notice in the table below, the width of one lane of bowling equipment is not equivalent to half the width of two
lanes, and two lanes are not exactly half the width of four, and so on.
Side aisle width

Fusion Bowling recommends providing an aisle of approximately 3 feet along at least one side (preferably both
sides) of the bowling lanes. A door is usually provided at the back end of the side aisle to separate the “back of
house” mechanical area. It is possible to not provide any side aisles, in which case the back of the pinsetter
machines could be accessed by walking on the ball return capping, crawling under the masking units, and over
3
The gutter is the sunken concave “trough” along both sides of the lane, into which the bowling ball falls when
the bowler errantly throws the ball off the side of the lane.
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the pinsetter machines. This configuration is not recommended. But due to width limitations, sometimes is
unavoidable.
Quantity Equipment Side Total

width aisle width width
1 lane 6’10” 3’ 9’10”
2 lanes 11’5” 3’ 14’5”
4 lanes 22’7-1/4” 3’ 25’7-1/4”
6 lanes 33’8-1/2” 3’ 36’8-1/2”
8 lanes 44’9-3/4” 3’ 47’9-3/4”
For every additional pair of lanes beyond 8 lanes, add 11’1-1/4”. The widths summarized in the table above are
minimums for pure functionality, and have nothing to do with aesthetics. If space is available, we recommend
making the room wider, especially for one- and two-lane bowling alleys.
Placing activities and furnishings alongside the Using windows and mirrors down the length of
lane makes efficient use of space and eliminates the lanes increases the feeling of spaciousness.
a visual “tunnel” effect.
Storage
A place for shoes, balls, children’s ramps, lane cleaning supplies, and pinsetter maintenance should be
considered. These are things that are essentially parts of the bowling alley and should be kept in their proper
places. Bowling shoes can be kept in cubby-holes, on shelves, or in drawers. The bowling balls are usually stored
on a rack or custom shelf that can be “built-in” to the room. The cleaning and maintenance supplies are usually
kept in the service aisle area in the back or in a closet near the bowling alley along with any other bowling
items.
Ceiling
Ceiling height
When designing the height of the ceiling, consider making it proportionate with the overall width and length of
the room. For a narrow one-lane bowling alley, a disproportionately high ceiling can make the space feel like a
canyon. Conversely, a wide room with a low ceiling can create an uneasy feeling that the ceiling is pressing
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down on the space. For the average residential bowling alley, allowing 10 to 12 feet from the surface of the lane
to the ceiling usually works well. Remember that the concrete slab can be up to 16 inches below the surface of
the lanes, depending on what type of foundation design is selected. If automatic scoring display TVs are planned,
a low ceiling may preclude them from being mounted overhead, and may force them to be mounted in a less
desirable location on a side wall. Optional large video projection screens at the end of the lane may require
higher ceilings as well. A ceiling height of 10 feet or more is recommended over the pinsetting machine area,
with the minimum height being 8 feet.
Ceiling design
Many different options are acceptable standards for bowling alley ceilings. The most common types are discussed
here. The traditional “saw tooth” ceiling is the mainstream design for bowling ceilings. It is named this because
segments of the ceiling are sloped like the edge of a saw blade, creating the desired lighting effect over the
lanes (See Lighting Section). Beams, arches, or soffits across the width of the room also provides this effect and
adds substance. In many cases, the ceiling type is directly related to the lighting plan that is selected. A plain
flat ceiling may make the room appear empty with no atmosphere but does offer options for unique ideas or
fixtures to be added. An open ceiling where the roof structure is exposed is more common in commercial
settings than residential but will give the room a modern industrial look. However, without a ceiling the acoustic
noise levels will be amplified. Ceiling fans above the seating area should be something to consider. Bowlers tend
to get hot in the midst of bowling. White ceilings and lighter colors are excellent at reflecting light and making
the room brighter. Dark ceilings should be used only with plenty of lighting in place.
“Saw tooth” ceiling profiles, such as this, keep Dark colored ceilings and walls require plenty of
the light directed down the lane, and out of the extra lighting.
bowler’s eyes.
Scoring monitor support

There should be a structure in the ceiling (beam, I-joist, pipe, or something equivalent) in place to support the
weight of the overhead flat screen scoring monitors, or any additional TVs that may be installed. The structure
needed must be capable of safely supporting approximately 150 pounds, which includes the TVs and mounting
brackets. Fusion Bowling supplies the TVs and mounting brackets, but does not supply or install the structural
support. The scoring monitors are typically installed hanging from the ceiling, about halfway down the length of
the approach. Usually the mounting bracket is hung using chain (which has a cosmetic cover) and is attached
directly to the support structure. In the case of a solid finished ceiling, the chains should be attached prior to
finishing the ceiling, unless there is attic access. The chains are usually placed 50 inches apart, centered on the
bowling alley. Otherwise, access holes may need to be cut in the ceiling and patched later.
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Adequate structural support is required for TV scoring monitors, whether mounted on side walls or hung
from the ceiling.
Another option for installing the scoring monitors is to attach them directly to a side wall using standard flat
screen wall mounts. If a side wall is the desired mounting location, an articulating wall mount is recommended
to maximize the viewing angle while bowling is taking place. The wall mounts must be attached to a firm
structure such as a stud, or concrete. (See also Scoring Display Power in the Electrical Section.)
Ceiling access
The bowling scoring systems require low-voltage or datacom wiring to be installed in the ceiling. This wiring
serves as the communication between the overhead monitors, scoring keypad, computer, and pinsetting
machines. There should be a pathway to install the necessary wiring in the ceiling or walls. If there is attic
access or an acoustical drop tile ceiling, that is acceptable. If not, the Client must provide a 2-inch conduit in
the ceiling from the rear pinsetter machine area to the scoring monitors in the front. As an alternative, the 2-
inch conduit can run from the scoring monitors down a side wall or column and stub out to the area under the
bowling lanes.
Installation Access
There should be a large enough opening to move in the largest and longest pieces of the bowling equipment from
outside. A direct pathway from outside into the bowling alley area is preferred. There should be enough area to
make turns around corners or down staircases if necessary. The synthetic bowling lane panels are 12 feet long
and are generally the longest items.
If the bowling alley is to be installed in a basement or area with limited access then it may be necessary to
dismantle the pinsetter machines into smaller pieces. The machines can then be reassembled in place with an
added labor cost. For installations on upper floors, this may also be done and in many cases is the only way it
can be done. A crane or lift can then be used to bring up the pieces of the entire bowling alley.
Foundation
A good foundation is essential for high-performing bowling lanes. The foundation should be a reinforced concrete
slab with a vapor barrier and overall thickness of no less than 4 inches at any given point, level within 0.5 inches
throughout the entire area. If a foundation is found to be out of level upon installation, the bowling lane
structural framework must be shimmed excessively to achieve true levelness on the finished surface. Additional
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materials and labor costs may result from a poorly laid foundation. Any conduits that are required should also be
installed and checked before the concrete is poured.
Wood floors, or otherwise, can serve as the base for the lane foundation (common in upstairs installations) so
long as the structure can safely hold the total weight load and occupants. The overall weight of the bowling
lanes is distributed somewhat evenly throughout, except for in the pinsetter machine area. This area should be
reinforced adequately, especially when installed on upper floors. The floor must be able to carry the load of the
machinery and withstand the vibrations the machinery generates. Brunswick A-2 pinsetter machines weigh
approximately 2,400 pounds apiece. They are installed close to each other, and rest on bases that have very
narrow footprints, meaning a very large static and dynamic load is concentrated on a very small point on the
floor. A licensed structural engineer or architect must be consulted and must certify that the foundation/floor
has been designed and constructed appropriately for the bowling alley equipment.
There are three accepted standards for bowling alley foundations. You should choose the option that best suits
your plan. This guide will only refer to a concrete slabs for foundation design options. The three concrete slab
designs include flat, recessed, and trench & pit.
Flat foundation
The most basic foundation design is simply any flat concrete slab with an area large enough to accommodate the
bowling equipment. The wood structural framework, or lane crib, is simply built on top of the floor resulting in a
finished playing surface that is 16” above the concrete. The 16-inch, raised lane crib is the standard height to
allow for the under lane ball return track and correct pit depth at the end of the bowling lanes. This foundation
is ideal in the following situations:
• Installing lanes in an existing building

• Installing lanes on the second floor or higher
• Installing lanes where the water table is high or in an area prone to flooding
Lane crib resting on a flat foundation. In this case, the sides of the lane crib were
cosmetically finished.
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The following issues are a direct result from using a flat foundation design:
• The ceiling height is reduced by 16 inches over the bowling lanes.
• There may be a need to raise the surrounding floors in the bowler’s seating area and possibly the side
aisle walkways to be flush with the bowling lanes.
• There may be a need to install step(s) leading up to the bowler’s area or onto the approach surface.
• Ramps or steps may be needed from the side aisle walkways up to the approach surface.
• Added costs will be incurred to cosmetically finish the exposed sides of the lane crib.
Recessed foundation
This foundation type consists of one large recessed rectangular area, whose width matches the outer width of
the bowling alley equipment, and whose length is slightly longer than the overall length of the bowling
equipment. (See Appendix for detailed profile and section illustrations of this foundation.) The recessed area is
16 inches below the surrounding floor, which allows for the lane crib to be constructed to a standard height of
16” within the recessed area. This foundation is the most common and is ideal in the following situations:
• When constructing a new building

• To achieve a finished bowling lane surface that is flush with the surrounding floor in the room
• When steps onto the approach are not desired
• When ceiling height needs to be maximized
The following issues are a direct result from using this foundation type:
• More complex work for the foundation contractor, compared to a flat foundation.
• Difficult to correct if the inside walls of the recessed area are poured too narrow.
• May not be suitable in a location with a very high water table.
• Conduit for scoring console must be placed accurately.
A recessed foundation with conduit for scoring A finished recessed foundation with side aisles
console stubbed up in the foreground. that are flush with the bowling lane surface.
Trench foundation
With a trench foundation, only the hidden ball return track and the pinsetter pit are recessed below the
surrounding floor level. The bowling lanes are not recessed, and the height of the structure beneath the bowling
lanes is significantly reduced. A long, narrow trench for the ball return and a rectangular pit for the pinsetter
machines are built into the concrete slab either upon initial construction or are excavated from a flat slab. The
depth for the trench and pit is 10 inches, which results in a finished playing surface that is 6-1/2 inches above
the surrounding floor (the added ½ inch is for leveling tolerance). The bowling lanes rest on a partial lane crib,
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or stringer frame, which is constructed along both sides of the trench. The trench foundation type performs well
in the following situations:
• When converting an existing flat slab to avoid a 16-inch raised platform.
• When ceiling height is limited.
• When a small step up onto the playing surface is desired.
• When it is not feasible to use a full 16-inch recessed slab.
The following issues are a direct result from using this foundation type:
• Added cost to cosmetically finish the exposed sides of the stringer frame.
• The foundation contractor’s work is more complex, compared to a flat foundation.
A trench foundation with a short stringer frame Bowling lanes built on a trench foundation sit
along both sides of the trench. approximately 6.5 inches above the floor.
Walls
Curtain wall
The curtain wall basically serves two purposes: to create a cosmetic “filler” area that partially blocks the view
into the pinsetter machine area; and to provide a mounting surface for electronic components that connect to
the pinsetter machine. The design of the curtain wall will depend upon several variables for each installation
based on the size and layout of the room. The location for the curtain wall is usually consistent but the height
and width is directly related to whether a custom graphic, a pinsetter masking unit (as seen in commercial
bowling centers), or a custom 3D art sculpture is desired. The curtain wall construction is the responsibility of
the client and is built using traditional construction framing methods.
The entire mechanical area at the end of the bowling alley should be concealed from the bowler’s view. A
masking unit, if used, will only cover an area directly over the bowling lanes, and will not extend all the way to
the ceiling. The space above or next to the masking unit will be exposed. The curtain wall should be constructed
appropriately to conceal the areas not hidden by the masking unit. Fusion Bowling will help determine the best
layout and design for the room. It may be desired to install doorways on either side of the bowling alley to allow
easy access into the rear mechanical area. Building a large curtain wall instead of using a masking unit allows
greater flexibility for custom decorative options. A large curtain wall should not be constructed until the latter
stages of the bowling alley construction process. This is to ensure the larger equipment is in place before the
area is blocked off by the curtain wall.
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There are some cases where a curtain wall may not be required. For example, a bowling alley that has no side
walkways and has a masking unit that is large enough to cover the entire area from the bowling lane surface to
the ceiling. However, a mounting surface for the “back-end” electronics is required. This can be a board that
hangs from the ceiling or a nearby side wall.
This partial curtain wall hangs down only a short Rear view from the pinsetter area showing the
distance from the ceiling, over the lanes. back of the masking unit panels.
Finished view showing how, in this instance, the

masking units completely covered the curtain
wall.
Wall treatments
Given the large amount of wall space in a bowling alley, there are many different ways to add customization and
visually enhance the room. Consider adding cross-ceiling beams, side-wall pilasters, columns, and other
decorative elements that are perpendicular to the length of the room, and can “break up” the monotony of a
long, narrow room. Avoid decorative elements that run parallel with the length of the room, and accentuate an
unwanted “tunnel effect”. Other options include murals down one or both side walls, or displays of memorabilia.
Noise attenuation
Unfortunately, there is no way to completely eliminate the noise generated by a bowling alley. However, there
are steps that can be taken to minimize the overall sound levels. The majority of the noise will be from the
bowling ball impact on the lane and the crashing of the pins. Acoustical wall panels and an acoustical tile ceiling
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will help absorb noise. Fabric materials used on movie theater walls are another option. Consultation with an
acoustical engineer will be the best solution.
The pinsetter machines themselves also produce noise. Optional sound-dampening parts can be installed on the
machines to help reduce the noise levels. The general running of the motors, pulleys, and belts will usually
create a normal vibration that will be something to consider in adjacent rooms and on upper floors.
Lighting
Bowling lane lighting
Approximately 15 to 20 footcandles of light is recommended for the bowling lanes. High Kelvin fluorescent tube
lights work well over the bowling lanes by providing bright, even light. Bowlers need to clearly spot the small dot
and arrow lane markings that allow them to line up the trajectory of their shot. Serious bowlers also like to
study the spin of the ball as it interacts with oil patterns at specific points along the lane. This all requires good
lighting. Four equally spaced fluorescent tube lights will adequately cover one entire lane. The first set of lights
should be installed at about 4 feet beyond the foul line. The remaining three sets of lights may be installed on
13-foot centers thereafter.
Whatever lighting plan and fixtures are used, it is important to keep the glare out of the bowler’s eyes. A “saw
tooth” ceiling profile or decorative cross-ceiling beams can help shield the glare of the light bulbs over the
lanes. Direct sunlight through windows can create “hot spots” on the lanes which can fade the colors of the
equipment, and make it difficult on the eyes to follow the ball down the lane. Automatic scoring equipment can
also be affected by excessive light or glare which could result in score keeping errors. Consider using tinted glass
or window treatments when windows in the bowling alley are present. The location of the windows could also be
oriented so that direct sunlight is minimized.
Approach and seating area lighting

Approximately 10 to 15 footcandles of light is appropriate over the approach and seating area. The use of
incandescent lighting, track lighting, spot lights, or other accent lighting all can provide a “warm” and
comfortable ambience. Dimming circuits also give added effects in these areas. Choose a lighting plan that will
accent the colors and furniture in the seating area. Avoid placing lighting fixtures directly over or in front of the
score display TV’s in order to reduce unwanted glare.
Pinsetter machine lighting

Approximately 30 to 40 footcandles of light is needed for maintenance work in the pinsetter machine area. We
recommend two fluorescent light fixtures in the maintenance area for each lane – one directly above the service
aisle, and one directly above each pinsetter machine. When the machines are being serviced, adequate lighting
will increase worker safety. The lights in this area should be on a separate switch from the other lights in the
bowling alley. Consider the “back of the bowling alley” a separate room altogether.
“Cosmic” special effects lighting

The LED special effects lighting package is custom designed for each installation. A suitable laser light for one
client may not be ideal for the next client. However, the end result is the same – an awesome bowling
experience! These light fixtures are placed in strategic locations along the bowling lanes to maximize the overall
effect. The LED lighting system that runs the length of the bowling lanes creates the look of runway lights.
Black lights are needed to activate the “glow” of the lanes and equipment. These are placed next to standard
lights along the bowling ceiling as needed. The black lights required are the “dark purple tubes” that should be
arranged to cover the entire bowling area. They can be hidden in molding, behind beams, or behind a “saw
tooth” ceiling profile as long as there is ample light to serve their purpose. There are also special fixtures on the
pinsetter machines that will change the normal white lights into black lights and make the pins glow too.
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All of the special effects and black lighting should be controlled from separate switches on separate circuits from
the other lights. This allows for 3 different lighting scenarios: normal white lighting, black lighting, and special
effects lighting. Usually the black lighting and special effects lighting are used together.
Electrical Power
It is the responsibility of the client to provide all electrical power service into the bowling area to operate the
equipment. A 40-amp service is adequate for 2 bowling lanes and all of the related equipment and lighting. For
one bowling lane, 30 amps are sufficient. It is recommended that a dedicated sub-panel be installed to serve
power to the entire bowling alley. Usually, this panel is located in the rear service area or in a nearby closet. All
equipment uses single-phase, 50/60Hz power, unless noted by Fusion Bowling at the time of sale.
It will be necessary to have an electrician on-site for various stages of construction on the bowling alley. First,
any preliminary wiring should be done during the general framing process of the building. Secondly, the under-
lane power locations should be installed and attached to the lane crib during the bowling lane foundation
installation. Finally, any remaining connections can be made during the latter stages of the bowling equipment
installation. Any special power connectors for the equipment are provided but not installed by Fusion Bowling.
The low-voltage communication and data wiring for the equipment is provided and installed by Fusion Bowling.
Pinsetter power
The pinsetters require 230V for each machine. This is typically supplied from a flexible drop cord coming in from
the ceiling or from the rear side of the curtain wall. The special twist-lock power connectors are supplied with
the equipment and must be attached to the ends of the cords. A strain-relief should be placed on the cord where
it comes out of the power box. Each machine requires about 10 amps of current when running. Depending on the
model of pinsetter used, there may also be a separate 230V drop cord to provide power to the ball return
booster motor.
Ball lift power

The ball return lift uses a motor which carries the bowling ball from under the approach and raises it onto the
ball rack. There is an electrical circuit that controls the motor for the ball return. A standard 115V receptacle is
required for power to this unit. The receptacle is usually attached to the floor or wood lane crib near the motor
on the ball lift. This receptacle is accessible by the removal of a small door in the approach, under the ball
return rack. The unit will require about 5 amps of current when running.
Foul detector power

The electronic foul detector system requires a standard 115V receptacle attached to the floor or lane crib,
similar to the ball lift power. However, it is recommended that this unit be controlled by a switch so it can be
disabled when not desired. This unit uses about ½ amp of current when activated. The receptacle should be
placed within 2 feet behind the foul line, clear of the center ball return track.
Scoring display monitor power

The location of the display monitors will vary for each installation. Usually, they are placed directly over the ball
return, or half the length of the approach. Alternate locations include side walls. Wherever the displays are
placed, be sure to install standard 115V receptacles for each display. It is also a requirement to install conduits
where needed (see Ceiling Access).
Scoring console/keypad power

Some scoring consoles and keypads will require power and some will not. It is generally a good idea to install two
1” conduits in the floor, side by side, for the console or keypad. This allows for flexibility to use either type. If
power is required by the system selected, then a standard 115V receptacle should be attached to the floor under
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the base of the console. The consoles have a rear door for accessing the receptacle and computer parts inside.
Usually, if the console has LCD score displays mounted to it, then it will require power. If there is just a small
keypad then power is likely not needed. There is also an option for a wireless keypad for certain systems.
Curtain wall power

There are various pieces of electronic equipment and controls that are usually mounted in the center on the rear
side of the curtain wall. A 115V receptacle with an isolated ground is required due to the sensitive electronic
circuits. If no curtain wall is present, locate this power on the ceiling in front of the pinsetters or on a nearby
side wall.
Maintenance power
It is generally a good idea to place standard receptacles in various locations throughout the bowling alley. They
will be handy for using vacuum cleaners, or bowling lane maintenance machines in the future. Consider putting a
few extra receptacles in the rear service area in case power tools are needed for repairs.
Motorized gutter guard rail power

If motorized pop-up gutter guard rails are desired, there is a 115V receptacle that is required at 30 feet past the
foul line. It will be attached to the floor or lane crib, clear of the ball return track. There is an additional
controller box for the gutter rails. The controller box should be placed in a convenient location and have a 1”
conduit that runs from the area under the lane to the box.
Glow bowling lighting power

The special effects lights require 115V receptacles to be installed for each fixture. The exact location of the
fixtures and receptacles will vary for each job, as previously discussed. All of the receptacles are usually
mounted on the ceiling or high on the side walls and are controlled by one switch. Basically, when you turn on
the switch for these receptacles, all of the special effects lights turn on together. There is one additional outlet
in this group located on the rear side of the curtain wall (or nearby) that controls the black lights on the bowling
pins and the LED runway lights down the sides of the lanes. This is in addition to, and separate from, the curtain
wall power.
Site Preparation
The building and/or room in which the bowling alley will located must meet certain minimum construction
progress and readiness requirements before bowling equipment can be installed. Requirements include the
following:
• Weather protection: The areas where the bowling equipment is to be installed or temporarily stored
must be completely dried in, sheetrocked, and dust-free.
• Electrical power: Permanent electrical power is required to install and test the bowling equipment.
Temporary construction power or power from a generator is unacceptable.
• Lighting: Permanent light fixtures must be in place to provide sufficient light for the bowling equipment
installation crew.
• Security: When the bowling equipment arrives on site, the Client becomes responsible for its security.
The bowling alley area must be able to be locked and secured.
• Climate control: Consistent HVAC for the bowling equipment must be provided for the bowling
equipment 24 hours a day during and after installation. High humidity, hot or cold temperatures, or
changes in temperature can cause the bowling equipment to malfunction, become inconsistent or
unlevel, or become damaged.
• Trash: Dumpster service or other facilities must be provided for the removal of trash produced during
installation.
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• Vehicular access: Adequate space for large shipping trucks, for parking for the installation crew, and for
operating a fork lift or other heavy duty equipment necessary to unload the bowling equipment must be
provided.
• Building entry: Adequately sized doorways and a sufficiently wide, tall, flat, stable, and smooth path
must be provided in order to move the pinsetter machines from the delivery trucks to their permanent
positions.
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Custom boutique & residential bowling alley installations
2-Lane Plan
This is an over-simplified illustration of one potential generic bowling alley design, and is meant to give only an overall introduction of bowling alley
dimensions. No construction, demolition, or remodeling work of any kind should be based solely on this illustration. No architectural or engineering design
should be based solely on this drawing. Every bowling alley installation is uniquely different. Contact Fusion Bowling to receive friendly and free consultation
during any phase of your bowling alley construction project. We are happy to help anyone.
Please email hello@fusionbowling.com, visit www.fusionbowling.com, or call us at 904-701-BOWL (2695). Thanks, and good luck with your project!
904-701-BOWL (2695)
2-Lane Profile (Recessed Slab)
904-701-BOWL (2695)
2-Lane Section (Recessed Slab)
904-701-BOWL (2695)

Fusion Bowling Pre Construction Guide 111005

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Fusion Bowling Pre Construction Guide 111005

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Custom Boutique & Residential Bowling Alleys

Service aisle length

Seating area length

Component Minimum Preferred

Bowling equipment width

Side aisle width

Quantity Equipment Side Total

Scoring monitor support

• Installing lanes in an existing building

• When constructing a new building

Finished view showing how, in this instance, the

Approach and seating area lighting

Pinsetter machine lighting

“Cosmic” special effects lighting

Ball lift power

Foul detector power

Scoring display monitor power

Scoring console/keypad power

Curtain wall power

Motorized gutter guard rail power

Glow bowling lighting power

2-Lane Profile (Recessed Slab)

2-Lane Section (Recessed Slab)

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