Backyard tennis often requires a tennis court, and a tennis enthusiast may want to consider building one, if he has the room. Before building a tennis court, the backyard layout and plans for proper drainage should be considered first. Typically, a grass tennis court is the easiest to maintain, but a backyard tennis court can also be constructed from concrete, clay, or synthetic materials. All obstructions should be cleared away from above the court, and lights can be installed for night play. A person's neighbors should also be consulted, however, before tennis matches are played in his yard.
One thing that is usually necessary for backyard tennis is a tennis court. One should first survey his property before deciding to build a tennis court. For the best results, the ground should be even and level. A French drain can be installed at the lowest corner the court, if pooling water is a problem.
Besides level ground, space is also a necessity when constructing a backyard tennis court. A standard doubles tennis court is typically 78 feet (24 meters) long and 36 feet (11 meters) wide. If there is not enough room for a court of this size, a singles court can be made, which is only 27 feet (8 meters) wide. Mini tennis courts can also be constructed.
A grass tennis court is typically the most feasible option for a backyard tennis court. To do this, the top of the soil should be turned, and a roller can be used to roll over the ground to compact it and make it more level. Grass seed can then be planted on top of the earth. After the grass has grown, lines for the court can be added using spray paint. This paint will typically need to be reapplied, however, each time the grass is mowed.
A hard tennis court can also be constructed for backyard tennis, although these are a bit more difficult to make. Concrete and clay are two common materials that can be used to construct a hard court. Synthetic materials, like artificial turf or vinyl, can also be used to cover the court to cushion the ground.
Any obstructions around a backyard tennis court can interfere with a tennis game. These should be removed before playing. Long tree branches, for instance, should be trimmed back, so they do not hang directly over the tennis court.
Although lights will usually not be necessary for every backyard tennis match, they are usually a good idea for night matches. These can be mounted onto existing structures, such as garages or houses. They can also be mounted on tall metal poles or trees.
Consideration for neighbors is important for players who use backyard tennis frequently. The constant sound of a ball hitting a racket or a ball machine can seriously annoy some neighbors. Consulting with your neighbors will often help you avoid any confrontations in the future.