Don't Get Court Out: Planning the Perfect Spot for Tennis
If you're a big tennis fan, there's no goal greater than having your own court built at home. The chance to practise and play whenever you want is incredibly valuable to the keen tennis player, but it's a big step to take.
For some people, the outdoor space they have available is only just big enough for a court to be built, which takes some of the decision-making away from you. For others, however, you might have a big choice to make.
It's unlikely you'll be too keen on the idea of ripping up your tennis court to have it rebuilt somewhere else if you change your mind, so getting it right the first time is essential. These are the things to consider as you choose the perfect spot.
The ground
Before you get too far in your plans, you should check the suitability of the patch of ground you're considering.
Although it doesn't need to be completely flat to begin with, it shouldn't be on a significant slope, as this will be difficult or impossible to flatten out enough during construction. It should also be solid, quality soil without large rocks or other obstructions.
If there are trees on the ground that you're planning on removing, check that you're able to clear the stump and roots, as it will cause difficulties if not.
The surroundings
Remember to include some extra space around your designated court area, but also look at what else is there. If there are patches of ground that are prone to gathering water, you might find yourself with a subsidence problem as the ground underneath the court remains waterlogged.
You should also check for trees in the surrounding area. Any that drop their leaves in autumn could make cleaning and maintenance more difficult, so consider picking another spot or having any problem trees removed.
The distance from buildings
Although tennis balls are softer than those used in some other sports, they can still cause damage to windows and various other building parts.
It's a good idea to situate your court out of range of any buildings, although this isn't always possible. If you're not able to do so, consider getting a tall, good-quality perimeter fence added during installation.
The orientation
Because the sun moves across the sky during the day, you might find yourself with either too much shadow or dazzling light in your eyes. It's useful to plan around this so you can get optimum sunlight for the times you'll most likely be using the court, but there are no rules that work for everyone. It depends on your ideal times plus your particular location, so spend some time planning thoroughly.
Contact tennis court builders for additional advice.
