Around 87 million people around the world play tennis, but have you ever wondered what it takes to build a tennis court?
Tennis courts have been around for centuries. However, tennis court construction has changed substantially over the years. Today it involves careful planning and various other factors.
Our guide provides all the information you need to build your dream tennis court. We include details on choosing the best surface material right through to tennis court installation. Read on to learn how to build a tennis court from start to finish.
Different Types of Surface
A regulation-size, doubles tennis court normally occupies 78 feet in length and 36 feet wide. Additionally, a runback area and extra space at the side are also included which makes up for an approximate 130×70-foot field of play.
If you’re aiming to build one on your property, you might want something more compact. Half courts or single courts can be considered as options instead. However, they tend not to accommodate all rules of the game adequately due to their size restrictions.
Although the sizing is standardized, the playing surface is not. Here are some of the options to consider.
Grass
The classic playing surface of the game, Wimbledon’s courts are made from grass. It demands constant maintenance and can total six figures to install – but that’s what makes it quick-paced and thrilling!
Clay/Har-Tru
Clay tennis courts are the most budget-friendly playing surfaces. They cost as little as $30,000 and provide a relatively low-impact game. However, they require maintenance to remain playable – one must regularly rake powder that pools during matches. Even so, clay remains the second oldest type of court surface due to its longevity and ease on joints.
Asphalt
Enjoy a game of tennis on an asphalt court that provides quick, seamless play. Asphalt courts are also highly cost-effective compared to other surfaces. Installation costs average around $65,000. Low maintenance makes this option ideal for those looking for easy upkeep and high performance!
Post-Tensioned Concrete
A concrete court is an ideal, long-lasting solution to prevent cracking due to its sturdy surface. Although the initial cost of a concrete court may reach up to $120,000, it requires little maintenance. It’s also a more durable option than asphalt making it well worth every penny!
Turf/Astro-Turf
Synthetic turf provides a grass-like sensation without the expensive upkeep of real grass. It looks great, and it’s just as cost-effective!
Tennis Court Construction
Planning your tennis court can be overwhelming. You need to think about location, orientation, and soil drainage. You’ll also need to consider fencing details, lighting requirements, and more.
It’s enough to make you dizzy! Luckily for you though, we are here with our expertise and experience at hand ready to assist in any way possible.
Select the Location
If you’ve decided to construct a tennis court, the first step should be locating an ideal site. It might appear straightforward, but this initial decision will influence many other factors during construction.
A big question to ask is if it will be indoors or outdoors.
Orientation of the Court
This is more specific to outdoor courts as opposed to indoor courts.
When constructing outdoor tennis courts, orientation is paramount since it allows you to factor in sun exposure and shade. It’s ideal for courts to be built from north to south so that players can avoid being blinded by direct sunlight during matches.
If you’re unable to locate your tennis court in a north-south orientation at the proposed construction site, there are several solutions to battle the strong rays of sunlight.
You can shield your court with windscreens or shading structures; plant trees or shrubs around its perimeter for natural shade; and build movable panels that act as temporary coverings when needed. All these options will create optimal conditions so you can play year-round!
If you’re located in a region with scorching temperatures, it is wise to align your court so the sun’s rays do not fall on it for prolonged periods.
Moreover, you must consider existing winds when choosing a spot; otherwise, gusts will consistently disturb gameplay and make things difficult.
Foundations & Drainage
Before you begin the construction of a tennis court, it is critical to ensure that the soil composition can withstand its weight as well as any extra load placed upon it. Therefore, assessing the suitability of the earth beneath is an indispensable step in this process.
To guarantee that the court is safe from water damage, special precautions must be taken if it’s located in an area with weak drainage. This includes creating a drain system around the boundary of the court, embedding a layer of pebbles beneath the playing surface to improve its absorption rate, and making sure that there is a subtle incline so any liquid can move away from it.
Landscaping, Fencing, and Lighting
If you’re designing an indoor tennis court, then you won’t need to worry about landscaping or fencing.
By planting bushes, trees, and flowers around the court’s perimeter you can add a sense of privacy and make it feel like an oasis. To further enhance comfort levels install benches, picnic tables, or any other outdoor seating which will provide players and spectators with a place to relax between matches.
Fencing is essential in two ways. It serves as a physical barrier to contain the tennis balls and provides privacy plus wind protection for both players and audiences alike.
If you intend to play tennis at night or during sunset, when visibility is most difficult, it’s essential to install the correct lighting around your court. That way, players will be able to see the ball and each other clearly without obstruction. Doing so not only helps in terms of safety but also enhances gameplay significantly!
Thinking of Building a Tennis Court?
Constructing a tennis court is no easy feat, but with the right planning and execution, it can be done. From finding the perfect location to lighting requirements, many factors need to be taken into account when undertaking tennis court construction.
If you’re looking for assistance in building your own dream court or have any questions about what steps to take next, our team at McConnell & Associates is here to help! If you want advice on how best to approach this project, contact us today.
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