Hello fellow pickleball enthusiasts!
We recently undertook an exciting project: turning part of our backyard into a multi-sport court, centered around our favorite sport - Pickleball!
Following on from our previous post, on why one might want to install a sports court, we decided to share our story. So here it is - our backyard transformation, one modular tile at a time.
1. Planning:
First things first, planning is key. We knew that we wanted our court to measure 60x30 feet, large enough for a full-sized Pickleball court and more. We also wanted to include an adjustable basketball hoop at the center line. Given these requirements, we knew we needed to carefully plan out our space. We contracted Sports Court Nor Cal to build our court.
2. Ground Preparation:
Preparing the ground was the first step in this process. It was crucial that the ground was level and stable before we could start laying down any sort of foundation. After some clearing, digging, compacting, and careful leveling, we had a plot of ground ready for the next step.
3. Laying the Concrete Base:
We decided on a concrete base for our court for its durability and stability. Once the ground was prepared, concrete was pumped in, ensuring it was smooth and even. There was plenty of lead time on the next step for the base to cure fully.
4. Choosing and Installing the Surface:
After the base was set, and the surface manufacture complete - the installation of the modular sports surface. We chose a modular surface due to its excellent traction, shock absorption, durability, low maintenance, and water drainage features. It also has the added benefit of being easy to install. The tiles came in interlocking squares that clicked into place on top of our concrete base, like a giant jigsaw puzzle!
5. Setting up the Sports Equipment:
Once our surface was ready, the adjustable basketball hoop was installed on the center line, allowing us to switch from Pickleball to basketball in no time at all. Our multi-use net, which can be easily adjusted for either Pickleball or volleyball, was set up next.
The last piece of equipment we added was the high-tension rebounder, perfect for wall ball and solo practice. This versatile addition enhances our practice sessions, allowing us to improve our game even when playing solo. The back of the court (the side with the hoop and rebounder) is a 10ft high net fence to prevent (most) basketball shots escaping! The two ends of the court, and the first 10ft on the front side have a 5ft high net fence, leaving a 40ft opening. Enclosing the corners keeps most of the balls in the court.
6. The Final Result:
Once complete, we stepped back to admire our creation. Our backyard had transformed into a vibrant, multi-sport court, a playground for adults and kids alike.
This court has not only given us endless hours of fun and fitness, but it's also brought us closer as a family. We've traded screen time for play time, and that, in itself, has been priceless.
So, if you're considering transforming your lawn into a multi-sport court, we say - go for it! It's a decision we have not regretted for a moment.
Stay tuned for more of our Pickleball adventures, and remember, the best games are the ones played at home!
Yours in Pickleball,
Backyard Pickleball
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