Today, tennis is widespread all over the world. It is also played by thousands of people across Canada. Due to its popularity, tennis courts are being established in both residential and commercial buildings.

Whether you are an amateur, professional, or simply an enthusiast of the sport, constructing a court is a task that shouldn’t be taken lightly, as a lot of preparation and planning goes into the construction process. Simply put, don’t compromise, only work with professionals.

Therefore, if you intend to construct your court- or perhaps improve on existing facilities, read on. We will familiarize you with crucial aspects of the building process, and highlight the dos and don’ts, coupled with the pros and cons.

Estimated Cost and Dimensions

Depending on the facilities and region, the courts have different surfaces. However, it is worth noting that there are other factors are affecting the court’s construction outcome. These include orientation, layout, and the ground’s slope.

Other factors which need to be considered in the construction process include:

1. Construction material and base
2. Orientation of the courts
3. Drainage and slope of the court
4. An estimated or accurate size of the court

The basic structural surface of a court consists of three-or perhaps more- layers. Also, there are four types of courts; hard court, clay, grass, and carpet. It is worth noting that other variations such as courts with granules have recently been adopted.

The court’s dimensions, however, have remained fairly constant over the past decade in every state. Fundamentally, these standards ensure that all players can experience the same playing conditions globally. Quite often, we tend to overlook the significance of the playing ground, and the influence it has on the playing experience.

Now, let’s talk pricing. Determining the exact cost of constructing a tennis yard is difficult. There are numerous variables -which keep fluctuating- that affect the cost of construction in Canada. These include grade plan, geographical location, surfacing, lighting, fencing, and so on. However, the estimated cost of construction starts from $100,000.

Familiarize yourself with the Tennis Court Surfaces

As we briefly suggested, every court has three or more basic surface layers. However, there are four types of playing surfaces. Each is constructed with different materials. Therefore, they tend to differ in court maintenance and basic structure. They include:

• Hard Court

This is one of the most popular courts in Northern America. Which begs the question; why are they special? The courts can be used both in and outdoors. Also, you may opt to use asphalt or concrete as its foundation, depending on how you deem fit.

As a construction rule, the foundation ought to be made of rubber and acrylic, among other layers. The surface should be painted blue. It’s smooth, which is advantageous since the ball doesn’t lose any speed due to friction with the ground.

The court’s surface gives the ball a constant bounce. This feature makes it easy for the players to calculate the flight curve. Clay (which we will soon consider in detail) has an uneven surface. This often causes the ball to deflect or bounce to different directions other than the intended one.

However, similar to other things, it has some disadvantages. For instance, it is impermeable to water. This means that you can easily slip, as the ground doesn’t absorb water. Be sure to consult your contractor regarding this.

The court’s surface is very dynamic, which is great for aggressive baseliners. It also works best for players with a powerful serve. We advise you to construct it.

• The Clay Court

Contrary to the ground court, clay courts are designed to be used outside. However, you may still opt to install it indoors. It has a red complexion -which may also appear to be orange. In comparison to all four courts, games on the clay courts are generally slow. This is because the balls dig into the soil, and take time before reflecting from the ground. The friction between the ball and the clay contributes to this as well.

However, it’s also advantageous. It’s easy on the joints since the surface is loose. This feature enables you to slide comfortably, plus it reduces injury as well. Generally, the construction cost is relatively low.

• Grass Court

Initially, all tennis games were exclusively played on grass. Today, however, grass courts are gradually phasing out and becoming increasingly rare.

The courts are divided into two distinct groups. One uses natural grass, while the other uses artificial grass. Most courts still have a natural grass, although it’s being substituted with synthetic grass. In comparison to all surfaces, games on grass courts are fast and exciting. However, note that the ball’s speed greatly depends on the grasses’ height.

The responsibility of creating a high-quality sports club and sports team surface should not be underestimated. You must ensure that the pitch is properly finished and completed. This, like astro turf, is simple to maintain, requiring no mowing or watering. 

• Carpet Court

This type of surface is strictly used indoors. It can’t stand harsh weather conditions or tolerate large quantities of water. Therefore, if you decide on installing it, be sure to consult your contractor on the dos and don’ts.

It is made of different materials -such as fiber- and comes in different colours. It is relatively soft, which enables the ball to bounce higher and move fast compared to the hard-court. However, it has some limitations.

It has a firm grip, which prohibits the players from sliding across. Therefore, accidents and injuries are more likely to occur. Since the carpet can only occupy a small space, it is mostly used in commercial areas. Also, it can’t be used to play tournaments or long games.

Bonus Tip: Site Preparation of the Court

Once you have decided on the court you want, it’s now time to construct. Do note that you can’t build on slabs that have an unsuitable surface. If the area you have opted for is rocky, swampy, or uneven, you are more likely to incur greater charges. Also, the construction will take longer to complete.

The presence of high groundwater, peat or organic soil, expansive soil, and waste materials will negatively affect your plans and the general outcome of the construction. Be sure to get in touch with an agency that will conduct a soil analysis. They should also advise you on best practices, and guide you through the construction process. Once again, don’t compromise, only deal with professionals.