LANDMARK LIFTING
Pickleball Courts
Overview of Pickleball Court Construction
Pickleball courts offer versatility and fun for enthusiasts, with options for various construction methods and sizes to fit different spaces and budgets. This guide breaks down the essentials of building a pickleball court, including standard sizing, construction methods, and customization options to enhance gameplay and aesthetics.
Standard Court Size
Pickleball courts can be made in a few different ways and in several sizes. The typical and ideal size for a pickleball court is 30’ x 60’. Depending on the space you have, sizing can be adjusted to be slightly smaller. However, you give up backcourt and side space, which can give playing the game a more cramped feel.
Basic Construction Method
Concrete Slab with Mat Rebar
The first way or cheapest option would be to pour a regular 4’’ slab or concrete with mat rebar to help keep the slab together and stronger. At Landmark Lifting, we saw cut or soft cut the joints rather than form in control joints when it's wet so that when the ball bounces on the court it does not affect the game of play. When we install courts this way, we recommend not surface coating the courts, but rather painting simple lines, which not only saves a lot of money but also promotes longevity. Installing a court this way permits the concrete to move and shift with weather, erosion, settlement, etc. Having a court constructed this way can still be a lot of fun and your court can last a very long time.
Advanced Construction Method
Post-Tension Pickleball Courts
The second way or the way that separates us from a normal concrete contractor is building post-tension pickleball courts. When we use the post-tension method, we can still make your court at any size, but ideally, we make them 30’ x 60’. Post-tension is when you lay plastic-covered steel cables in a grid pattern that are elevated so that when the concrete is poured, the cables run through the middle of the slab. We don’t place any saw cuts or control joints in the concrete but rather finish it all on a big smooth pour. We allow that to cure for about a week and then come back and tension the cables. Sometimes customers get nervous because they’ll see their brand new court crack (which is totally normal and expected). When the Landmark team comes back for our second visit, we tension the cables, all the cracks suck back together, and the cables take all the static tension off the concrete itself, making it incredibly strong. This makes for a slab that doesn’t shift or move over time. When a customer chooses this method, they always elect to have it surface coated as well.
Surface Coating and Aesthetics
Surface coating makes the courts look and feel the same as a tennis court and gives it a finished look. When applied to a post-tension court, these surfaces can last indefinitely. We still see courts that are 25 years old and have surfaces in good shape. The reason for this is that the concrete isn’t moving or shifting so the court surface stays together, unlike the traditional concrete method that will move and shift causing the court surface to shift and age quicker. Not only is this the ideal scenario, but it draws curb appeal and contributes to the aesthetic of your backyard.
Additional Features
We typically install a Dominator basketball hoop for half-court basketball as well as a Dominator light for playing pickleball and basketball at night. We also like to put the pickleball nets embedded into the court so that when you aren’t playing pickleball you can have a clean surface with the holes capped for basketball or other activities.
Want a Post-Tensioned Pickleball Court? Call Landmark Lifting!
To learn more about post-tensioned pickleball courts, or to get an estimate on installation, contact us today! We'll be glad to discuss the technology and give you a quote.
Pickleball Courts FAQs
How long will the process of constructing the pickleball court take?
The construction of a pickleball court typically takes between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on factors such as site preparation, weather conditions, and the construction method chosen. Initial site assessments and preparations can take time, but once construction begins, our team works efficiently to minimize delays and ensure quality work.
What maintenance is required for pickleball courts?
Maintaining a pickleball court involves regular cleaning to remove debris and dirt, inspecting for cracks or damage, and ensuring proper drainage to prevent water accumulation. Depending on the type of surface, resealing or repainting may be required every few years to maintain playability and appearance.
What should I consider when choosing a location for my pickleball court?
When selecting a location for your pickleball court, consider factors such as sunlight exposure, wind direction, and accessibility. Ideally, the court should be oriented north-south to minimize glare from the sun during play.
How long does a pickleball court typically last?
With proper construction and maintenance, a well-built pickleball court can last 20 years or more. Post-tension courts tend to have a longer lifespan due to their structural integrity and resistance to cracking. Regular maintenance, including surface coating and repairs, will help extend the life of your court even further.
Are there any additional costs associated with building a pickleball court?
While we provide a detailed estimate for the construction of the court, additional costs may arise based on customization options, site preparation needs, or optional features such as lighting and fencing. We ensure transparency in pricing and discuss any potential additional costs with you before starting the project.
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