How to Renovate Tennis Court Lighting

Tennis is a game enjoyed by all ages and all skill levels. Public tennis courts are open to anyone who has a racquet and a can of tennis balls. Tennis courts are also a popular addition to a homeowner's backyard, dependent on room and a budget to build the facility. Lighting is very important to a tennis court, as tennis games often last into the evening hours, long after the sun has gone down. Also, some people like to play games very early before work when the sun isn't yet out. Properly lighting a tennis court, or renovating existing lights, doesn't have to be a hassle. Just follow a few simple steps.

Instructions

    • 1

      Study your existing lighting fixtures. Check for dark spots on the court. Also check for glare and how well lit the ball is as it travels through different parts of the court.

    • 2

      Play some tennis after the sun has gone down and see how the light affects your playing. Take special note if some lighting fixtures cause a blinding when you try to serve or return a lob.

    • 3

      Sketch out the existing light fixtures and circle any spots on the court where there are lighting problems.

    • 4

      Design a new lighting scheme for your tennis court. Most residential tennis courts use low-mast lighting, which provides a consistent light across the entire court, reduces glare and prevents light from going too far beyond the court. Be sure to utilize forward throw light fixtures and bulbs, which spread an even light and also reduce glare. Make sure your new design projects the light roughly 6 to 8 feet beyond the outside lines of the tennis court.

    • 5

      Install the new light fixtures or update your old fixtures to accept high-density bulbs. These bulbs provide a more uniform light and last longer. Most tennis courts use forward throw lighting, which reduces glare. Test the new lighting scheme and see if the problems of the old light scenario have been solved.