Tennis courts need regular care and maintenance in order to function at their peak performance, such as installing an efficient drainage system with proper drains for running water to drain away from the court surface and avoid creating potential tripping hazards. Without an efficient drainage system in place, standing water could damage its integrity and become an unnecessary tripping hazard on a working court surface.
Pooled water accumulates dirt that can form an unpleasant, sandy texture. To avoid this from occurring, examine and repair the drainage system as necessary.
Keep Debris Away from the Court
British summers tend to bring rain and wind, so it is crucial that debris stays clear of courts. Furthermore, routine cleaning should help to eliminate mold growth which could eat away at its surface leaving behind unsightly patches of damage.
Rain can do wonders for tennis courts, flushing away dirt and debris from their surfaces. But it’s essential that any standing water doesn’t stay on it too long as this will stain and abrasion its way onto the court surface, necessitating proper drainage systems be installed that divert excess water away from its target surfaces.
Berrys, animal droppings and chewing gum can all stain courts, so players should wear non-marking shoes when playing on it. If these materials are left lying around for too long they could damage coatings on the court and make it unplayable – make sure you clean up promptly to preserve its coatings and ensure an enjoyable playing surface!
Install a drag mat in the clubhouse so players can wipe their feet on it before entering the court, eliminating the need to go outside and clean off shoes prior to playing and helping keep the court looking its best for longer. In addition, regularly inspect drainage structures on your court and clear away any blockages preventing water from draining properly away.
Clean the Court Regularly
Regular tennis court maintenance — sometimes known as cleaning but more accurately described as housekeeping for your court — is key to keeping it in excellent condition, both for playing on it more comfortably as well as helping it last longer and avoid costly repairs in the future. By performing regular maintenance on your court, not only does it become easier for players but it can help extend its lifespan, prolong its usefulness and save on repairs in the future.
Sweeping courts on a regular basis is an effective way of clearing away debris such as rubbish, leaves and pine needles that could stain or degrade the court surface. Fungus or mold growths on courts can be removed using bleach mixed with one part water (or mild detergent). Light pressure washing the court can remove accumulated dirt as well as biological growths such as moss.
After a rainstorm it is essential to dry the court as soon as possible. Prolonged standing water softens coatings and allows fungus or mildew growth; additionally it creates puddles which cause players to trip and fall. If there is a drainage system installed on your court it should be monitored frequently in order to make sure it remains unblocked.
An effective fall cleaning should include clearing away fallen leaves or pine needles from courts to ensure they’re playable for winter. A treatment of Lightning Cleanze (10:1 dilution), followed by a light pressure wash will leave courts looking fresh and ready for play.
Repair Cracks as Soon as They Appear
Cracked tennis court surfaces pose a quandary for owners; when cracks appear they must decide whether or not to fill them. Hiring an experienced court contractor may help evaluate if these cracks are simply due to freeze-thaw cycles or represent more serious issues that require attention.
When cracks are only several inches wide and do not present other major problems, contractors can apply acrylic coatings to stop further degradation of the surface. A more permanent solution involves placing fiberglass mesh over cracks and locking it down using acrylic coatings.
Although this option costs more, it provides a smoother surface that prevents further cracking. Any acidic substances such as bird droppings, food/beverage spillages or paint splashes must be immediately cleaned up from the court surface as soon as they occur in order to avoid eating away at materials and leading to further damage.
At the same time, it is also wise to inspect and clean the surrounding area of the court, such as benches, spectator areas and fencing. Pay special attention to any overgrown vegetation blocking drainage structures or pipes and look out for vegetation growing directly onto them. Finally, it’s advisable to keep nets in good condition by inspecting their footing and net cables frequently for damage, repairing or replacing as necessary.
Don’t Let Landscaping Take Over the Court
People often overdo their landscaping around tennis courts, yet allowing too much plant growth close to the court can cause issues. Plants with large leaves or needles that fall onto the surface stain it and clog drainage systems; additionally it is necessary to prune back trees or bushes that overhang over its area of play.
All planting should be carried out two feet from the court surface to allow for effective drainage. Mulch should not be used around its edges as this could block drainage, leading to pools of standing water which in time seep through and cause abrasions on court surfaces.
Brushing the surface of the court weekly is key for even distribution of infill sand and prevention of divots from forming. For best results, it should be done when it is dry for optimal results.
Do not use metal brooms and brushes with hard bristles on the court, as this can damage its surface and leave permanent scuff marks. Likewise, no skateboards, bicycles or roller blades should be used on it either as these will leave permanent scuff marks behind them. All players should wear tennis shoes instead of dark-colored footwear as these may stain its surface; an entrance mat may help stop debris entering into the court as well.
Don’t Over Water the Court
Though a good rainstorm can do wonders for your court by washing away dirt, debris, and items causing abrasion, flooding should not occur as this can damage its surface as water may seep into its core causing soft spots or cracks to form under its surface.
Avoid standing water and remove puddles immediately in order to keep mold & mildew at bay and extend the lifespan of your surface. Regularly sweep and hose off with appropriate cleaning solutions as this will keep mold & mildew at bay and help your court last longer. Soft nylon or hair-type brooms should be used when sweeping, and only mild detergent solutions or low pressure washes should be used on synthetic surfaces as ammonia-based cleaners may damage them; instead use ammonia-based cleaners when washing with mild detergent solutions/low pressure without risk to coatings being damaged from too close proximity – always ensure its tip does not touch when using pressure washer nozzle so it does not damage coatings/coatings/coatings/coatings/coatings/
Additionally, when walking the court you should look out for any fungus or mold which has begun to build up on its surface. If any is detected, rub the stain with mild detergent or two parts bleach to one part water solution to scrub away stains before rinsing and drying your court. Finally, be sure to inspect drains near the court; make sure they are free of debris and that all pipes are functioning correctly as this will help avoid water penetration onto playing surface which is a leading cause of early deterioration.
Do a Final Fall Clean Up
Maintaining your tennis court in excellent playing condition serves multiple purposes. It protects your investment, helps avoid costly repairs in the future and provides greater return for time spent playing – not to mention making sure both yourself and your guests enjoy an enjoyable, safe tennis court experience!
Organic debris such as leaves, pine needles, bugs and dirt contaminate the surface of a tennis court, collecting in low spots, shaded areas and corners, creating the ideal conditions for moss and mold to flourish. Regularly cleaning these items up using either vacuuming or sweeping brushes is vital in protecting the court surface; power washing your court may also be required every year or two for optimal cleaning results.
An effective drainage system that directs excess water away from a tennis court is key. Regular inspection and maintenance will help avoid clogs as well as structural problems caused by ground settlement or heaving, while trimming grass or plants that surround the court regularly will minimize debris that lands on its surface and presents potential safety hazards.
Tennis courts require some routine maintenance in order to maintain optimal playability and lifespan. Reach out to North State Resurfacing’s professional tennis court contractors about how best to maintain your surface type.