Maintenance Tips for Outdoor Athletic and Game Courts
Outdoor game courts require regular maintenance to remain safe and long-lasting. There are many types of home game courts, such as tennis, basketball, and pickleball, but their maintenance is generally universal.
Read on to learn how to maintain outdoor game courts at home.
Clean the court and remove debris
A court covered in dirt and debris is unsafe. Sweep up to remove dirt, leaves, and any other debris that may have accumulated. If the court is on the larger side, use a leaf blower to make cleaning a bit faster, especially if there are a lot of fallen leaves.
Inspect the surfaces
Check the court's surface for signs of cracks or peeling. These can be considerable injury hazards. Repair any damage so it doesn't become worse and more dangerous.
Courts must drain
Game courts need correct drainage, too. Otherwise, rainwater might accumulate and damage the surface or pose a slipping hazard. Make it easy for water to drain around the court to prevent water accumulation. Check drainage systems periodically for debris and clear them to avoid clogging.
Keep the net and equipment in order
Check nets, hoops, and other equipment for signs of wear and tear. Over time, nets fray, and other equipment may sustain damage. Repair the damage if possible. And if not, order a replacement.
Seasonal maintenance
Courts might need different maintenance routines depending on the season. For example, in the autumn, fallen leaves might accumulate and make the court slippery and unsafe. In spring, rain pooling on the court may need help draining. Clean the surface often during these seasons and protect the court during harsh weather.
Resurfacing and repainting
Even with the best maintenance, court surfaces wear over time. However, good maintenance helps them last longer. But once the surfaces start to deteriorate, consider resurfacing them. It may be ideal to do so every few years to keep the surface as smooth as possible for the best playing conditions.
Court lines also wear off with use and from weather exposure. Repaint the lines and markings when they show signs of fading to make them easy to see and comply with the rules of the sport in question.
Prevent mold and mildew
If the court is exposed to regular moisture, it might grow mold and mildew. Use specialized chemical treatments that are safe for court surfaces to remove any growth promptly. Pay particular attention to shaded or damp parts of the court.
Professional assessment
DIY maintenance will go a long way to keeping the court clean, enhancing its longevity. However, there are possible issues that might not be easy for property owners to spot. Schedule professional assessments periodically to identify these problems and receive expert advice.
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