Installation of an Outdoor Tennis Court

Building an outdoor tennis court is an involved project that is best left to a qualified contractor, according to the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA). When building a tennis court, many factors go into its construction, including selecting a proper site, choosing a contractor who can meet industry standards (which you can find through the ASBA) and deciding what kind of surface to use. When built properly, a tennis court can provide years of enjoyment for players.

  1. Before Starting

    • The layout of the tennis court is very important. By positioning the court correctly, the amount of time players will be looking directly into the sun will be minimized. Courts usually face north/south.

      Decide which surface you want to use. Concrete courts require the least amount of maintenance, and many players prefer the bounce of the ball on concrete. Clay courts are easier on the body; however, they require weekly maintenance to keep the surface playable.

    Concrete Courts

    • The ASBA offers detailed construction guidelines for putting in a concrete court. Basically, the contractor needs to make sure that the slope of the court is correct by sloping in a true plane, an adequate subsurface is used, there is proper drainage and that the concrete is the correct thickness--5 inches thick for cold climates and 4 inches thick for warm climates.

    Clay Courts

    • Clay courts are either natural clay or processed clay mixed with sand and silt. The ASBA offers detailed guidelines for putting in a clay court as well. Crushed stone or gravel should be used under the court and should be at least 3 inches after compaction. Clay is placed on top. Natural clay should be 3 inches thick, and processed clay should be 2 inches thick.

    Court Dimensions

    • Court dimensions need to follow tennis rules. The double’s court measures 36 feet by 78 feet, and the single’s court measures 27 feet by 78 feet. If you are putting in more than one court, a 24-foot separation is recommended; however, courts can be as close as 12 feet, according to the ASBA. The lines need to be between 1 and 2 inches wide. The baseline can be up to 4 inches. On a concrete court, the lines are painted with paint approved to work with the court surface. For clay courts, the lines are webbing material that is held in place by rust-resistant nails.

      Net posts should be placed 3 feet outside the side line. The net is 42 inches high.

    Fencing and Windscreens

    • Some kind of fencing needs to be put up to keep the balls in the court. Most courts have chain link fencing around them. However, walls, wooden fences or hedges can be used as well.

      Windscreens should be put up as a backdrop so that players can see the ball better. They also shield from the wind and provide privacy. You want the windscreen to be almost as high as the fencing around the court. Therefore, if the fencing is 10 feet, the windscreen should be 9 feet. Fasten the windscreen to the fence using “S” hooks, lacing cord, springs or tie-wraps.