How to Clean Tennis Court Surface Area

Jun 9
21:01

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

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Tennis courts are made from a variety of surfaces, including clay, crushed stone, grass, carpet, synthetic surfaces and what is known as a hard surface. Hard courts are by far the most common type in the United States, according to the American Sports Builders Association, due to their affordability and durability.

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Made from layers of asphalt,How to Clean Tennis Court Surface Area Articles cement or other materials, a hard court features a top layer not as durable as the sub surfaces.

This thinner, coloring layer can deteriorate if not properly maintained; mold and mildew can build up on the surface, leading to playability issues.

Basic cleaning will go a long way in preventing premature wear and staining. Here are some tips for maintaining your investment and extending the life of your sport surface between resurfacing cycles.

Clean your court regularlyOnce a month is suggested. Watch for evidence of mold or mildew in shaded areas and corners where organic debris tends to accumulate. Indoor courts require both frequent vacuuming and at least one annual wet cleaning with mild detergent solution and soft bristled equipment. Acrylic coatings do not support fungus growth, so growth of fungus or mold is a result from food and drink spills, decaying matter, or other foreign materials on the surface feeding these organisms.

To remove mold, fungus & other organisms on the acrylic surface use:

  • 2 parts household bleach, mixed with 1 part water. Use this solution to treat affected areas. Scrub gently with soft bristled brush and rinse thoroughly after a few minutes.
  • Rinsing court with water is usually sufficient for general cleaning. If there are visible stains on the court surface, a mild detergent can be applied prior to gentle scrubbing with a soft bristled brush.

Here is a mild detergent formula:Combine 4 parts water with 2 parts TSP (trisodium phosphate) and 1 part household beach, when mildew present.

Remove standing waterRain showers help clean your court. However, dirt accumulates in standing water, leaving stains and piles of debris. This acts like sandpaper under the players' feet and creates abrasion on the surface. Remove water from birdbaths as often as possible. Court Irrigation systems around the court should not spray on the court.

Remove foreign matterLeaves and pine needles not only can stain your court, but also are breeding grounds for mold and mildew. It is especially important to remove leaves in the fall and keep your court free of debris all winter.

Use proper equipmentUse soft nylon or hair-type brooms for scrubbing your surface. Scrubbing too hard with hard bristles can damage the surface. Water brooms are a great tool for cleaning tennis court surfaces. Some brands, like the Watermiser® Waterbroom, use up to 75% less water than a pressure washer or hose and much less time spent in labor. When using a pressure washer or water broom, limit pressure to 70 p.s.i.

Damage preventionPost signs or banners near the entrance and throughout the court area with court "rules". Here are some suggestions:

Use only non-marking tennis shoes on the court surface

No bikes, roller blades, or skateboards (Unless using SkateMaster Surfacing System)

No chewing gum, food, or drinks (other than water) on the playing surface

Do not drag chairs, benches or other items over the surface

Use pads underneath chair legs or equipment that is on the court. Anchor benches or any other permanent fixtures to the surface to prevent damage from sliding or dragging. Protect the surface before driving maintenance vehicles onto the court.

Drainage (outdoor courts)Drain systems are a very important part of tennis court construction. Excess water that flows back onto the court surface or beneath the court can cause problems. Properly installed drainage systems divert water away from the court and should be inspected from time to time.

Look for any evident damage to structures and drain pipes

Clear away any vegetation or debris that may be blocking drains or swales

For more related maintenance information,check links below:  

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