Keep your court performing at its best
Proper care helps preserve the playing characteristics, appearance, and long-term durability of your Plastotop Barrett’s tennis court. Below is a practical guide to help you protect your surface and get the best life out of your investment.
Simple care steps that protect your court surface
After the court has been handed over, it is important to follow certain maintenance procedures to retain both the playing performance and the general appearance of the surface. These recommendations are designed to help with that upkeep.
Good maintenance is not complicated, but consistency matters. Regular cleaning, controlled use, proper shoe selection, and careful attention to nearby vegetation and drainage can make a major difference to the life of the surface.
Early care and surface protection
These steps are especially important in the early life of the court and in day-to-day use where surface damage can happen through moisture, heat, impact, or unsuitable footwear and equipment.
During the early life of the court, it is important not to play on the court whilst it is still damp. The binder used retains a water solubility factor for a number of months, and when played on whilst damp, the granules providing the texture can be rubbed loose. Similarly, in extremely hot conditions, for the first few months, the new plasticised surfaces can be tacky and may adhere slightly to the sole of the shoe, causing minor twisting or lifting blemishes.
Avoid hitting the court with racquets. While this may happen occasionally in the course of play, repeated striking, especially in frustration, can damage the surface.
Bicycles, tricycles, skateboards, and similar items should not be ridden on the court surface.
Regulation white-soled or non-marking tennis shoes should be worn at all times.
When using an umpire’s chair, ball machine, or any other article producing point loading, a flat board or rubber mat should be placed under the spiked underside to avoid denting or marking the surface.
Cleaning and routine maintenance
Routine washing and prompt cleaning help preserve both the look of the court and the quality of play, while also reducing avoidable wear on balls and surface texture.
In order to extend the life of the surface and the life of the tennis balls, it is important to wash the court down on a regular basis. We recommend gently washing the court regularly and undertaking a professional high pressure court clean (a service we provide) annually, particularly after the rainy season. The life of a tennis ball can be extended significantly when used on a clean surface..
Where the surface is blemished by bird or fruit bat droppings, or by any spillage, it is advisable that the affected area be sponged or gently hosed as soon as possible. Do not scrub the surface.
Overhanging branches can encourage bird droppings, create mess, and result in areas remaining damp. Damp areas provide an excellent medium for algae growth, which is harmful to the surface. Ideally, branches should be cut back, or the court should be inspected regularly for black algae growth.
Court care in practice
A well-maintained court not only performs better but also keeps its appearance for longer. Regular inspection and basic upkeep make a noticeable difference over time.
Court surroundings and structural care
What happens around the court matters almost as much as what happens on it. Vegetation, fencing, net tension, drainage, and nearby planting can all affect long-term performance.
Ensure that a border of at least 20cm is kept trimmed around the court to avoid damage caused by grass encroachment.
Do not over-tense the tennis court net. This can cause the net poles to bend inwards, resulting in cracking around the base of the pole.
Although creepers may enhance the appearance of the court, they can result in the fence being blown over in high winds. Where creepers or approved backdrops are attached to the fence, additional stays should be used to bolster the uprights.
Certain trees and shrubs can cause damage to the court surface through root encroachment. Consult your nursery before planting near the court.
Ensure that surface water from the surrounding terrain does not build up behind retaining walls or flow onto the court. Avoid garden beds directly next to the retaining wall.
Need help maintaining your court?
Speak to Plastotop Barrett’s Courts for professional advice, maintenance support, or guidance on keeping your court surface in top condition for years to come.