Imagine what it could be like to have your own tennis court right there at home. You could play anytime you want—after work, early in the morning, and even late into the evening. The exercise tennis provides—for you and your family—is unrivaled. And if you have children, tennis is perfect for teaching them commitment, focus, and sportsmanship.
Adding a court to your custom home plan or your existing home as part of a renovation project isn’t as unusual or unlikely as you may think. In fact, our team, specializing in building and renovation projects throughout our area, has helped dozens of families achieve their tennis dreams by building residential tennis courts to meet every need.
There are, of course, many factors to consider before you run out and buy a new racquet.
Factors to Consider
Municipal zoning laws and homeowners’ association rules may preclude you outright from adding a tennis court to your property. Even if allowed, specific regulations or restrictions may dictate fencing types and heights and lighting options (if lighting is permitted). Court size and surfacing may also be dictated. The first step is determining if you legally can install a court and the parameters for doing so. With many years of building experience in the region, our team are likely in the know about zoning and HOA requirements. But even if they aren’t experts in the laws and bylaws of your specific town or subdivision, they’ll get answers.
It’s also critical to know before you get too far into such a project that you have the physical space to accommodate a tennis court. The minimum play area for a home doubles tennis court is 78 feet by 36 feet. For singles play, the recommended court size is 78 feet by 27 feet. Both of these recommendations come from the International Tennis Federation.
These court sizes do not include service area or sideline space, which will add approximately 14 feet to your court’s width and 21 feet to the length. Depending on the geography of your court’s anticipated location, you may also need to factor in additional square footage for drainage.
Ideally, you will also know which type of tennis court surface you would like before you begin such a project, as your court type will impact longevity, maintenance, and cost. Your options include:
Grass: A classic that unfortunately requires a lot of expensive and time-consuming maintenance; may be unplayable in certain weather conditions.
Clay: A less expensive option than some others in terms of construction, but one comes with time-consuming maintenance needs.
Har-Tru: Often referred to as a clay court, Har-Tru courts are actually made of crushed stone. Har-Tru is an excellent option: porous, quick-drying, easy to maintain, cooler, and easier on players’ joints.
Asphalt or concrete: The most popular option, a layer of acrylic or other cushioning material is typically added over the top of an asphalt or concrete base. While maintenance needs are relatively light—these courts can be pressure washed—they may require re-painting and anti-algae treatments somewhat regularly.
Play on each of these courts—the way the ball moves and bounces—and the comfort players will experience differs significantly, as may installation requirements.
Your tennis court will require a fence—to keep balls in and for privacy. Chain-link fencing is an easy and relatively affordable option. But you’ll also have to decide on windscreens (definitely recommended), backboards, and rebounders.
If you want and can have a lighted court, your lighting system and layout should be decided upon as early as possible since poles will need to be sunk into the ground during construction.
Estimating Costs
As you can see, many variables go into the cost of building a residential tennis court. In total, the following expenses may be included in the cost of your at-home tennis court:
Backboards
Excavation and construction
Fencing and installation
Lighting
Maintenance
Net system
Permits
Seating
Storage (such as a shed)
Surfacing materials
Windscreens
If you decide to move forward with the installation of a private tennis court—whether as a part of your new, custom home or as an addition to an existing home—you are sure to be rewarded with years of enjoyment. For the best results, be sure to work with our expert team. Experienced builders and installers can help ensure that you’ve covered all your bases and made the best decisions for yourself, your family, and your property.
A tennis court can enhance your lifestyle, increase your property values, and provide years of entertainment.
For more information, call us or click here to schedule your complimentary, no-obligation consultation.
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