Hard Courts

There are two basic construction methods for hard courts.

Asphalt

This type of construction may offer an initial saving of approximately 20% but will incur future maintenance costs.

• Structural cracks begin to occur typically within the first 5 years
• Cracks grow in length and width
• Cracks require yearly filling
• Susceptible to settling, heaving and root damage
• Generally requires an overlay or total replacement at 10 to 15 years.

Post-Tensioned Concrete

This is today’s primary method of hard court construction that has proven itself over the last 30 years.

• Only permanent solution to cracking courts.
• Any cracks cannot open up over 1/8” eliminating liability or ball-bounce problems
• Increased resistance to settling or heaving
• High level of planarity
• Life expectancy of 50 years or more

Soft courts

Soft courts are typically fast-dry clay, synthetic, or natural grass.

Clay

These are constructed of specifically graded crushed green granite to provide a uniform and free draining surface.  This type of court provides a surface and allows the player’s foot to slide and is kind to their joints.

The clay must be kept moist.   This is done by two watering options:

Surface watering:

• Sprinklers mounted on fence
• Courts must be closed during and after watering
• Not used in arid regions of country

Sub-surface irrigation

• Utilize a reservoir underneath courts
• Provide a consistent moisture level
• No down time for watering

Grass

Natural grass courts are infrequently built these days due to extensive care and maintenance.  There are synthetic, sand-fill turf built to play much like a grass court but with much less maintenance and more durability.