SPORT COURTS AND SURFACES
Who does the court manufacturer recommend for an installer? Padel courts require specific skills and knowledge to assemble; additionally, special equipment will be needed since each panel of glass can weigh more than 600 pounds and will require careful handling.
When speaking with court manufacturers, ask about shipping costs for systems; make sure you have budgeted properly for those, as well as for all facets of the installation( which may include travel-related fees for crews if contractors are from outside the local area).
Ascertain that all appropriate insurance coverage is in place for the project, and that permitting and other requirements are taken care of. If the system is outdoors and soil testing is needed, establish who is responsible for setting this up and how long it will take.
Find out what type of a base will be required for the court. Any sports facility requires a level, structurally sound base. A sports-specific contractor with padel experience will be able to recommend the best base for your courts in your area.
There are temporary and portable courts; these feature lighter-weight components; however, they are not designed for long-term use, particularly outdoors. Make sure you have the correct system for your location and the expected amount of play.
Ask whether the court system you are considering comes with lights; if so, will the installer hook those up or should a specialty lighting contractor be used? What type of power supply will be needed? If the court does not come with lights, you’ ll need a sports-specific lighting system.
“ The most important thing for prospective padel court owners to consider is the quality and durability of the court materials and construction,” said Matt Cross of H2I Group.“ A padel court is a significant investment, and using highquality materials not only enhances the playing experience but also ensures longevity and minimizes maintenance costs over time.”
According to Eric Loftus of Northeast Padel, because the sport is in its formative stages in the United States, it’ s possible that those who want padel courts are not aware of the importance of having a contractor who understands the sport and everything that goes into padel court construction. Many of the underlying factors that contribute to the success of a padel facility— such as base construction, drainage and lighting— might be overlooked in the interest of a quick installation.
Photo courtesy of Fast-Dry Courts, Inc. & 10-S Tennis Supply
Photo by Roger Aribau Gisbert
“ Once you have established where your court will be and made certain it is a suitable site, locate a manufacturer with a quality product and find a skilled contractor to do the installation,” Loftus said.“ Only by doing this will you achieve the best possible end result.”
Mary Helen Sprecher wrote this article on behalf of the American Sports Builders Association( ASBA). For more information, visit www. sportsbuilders. org sportsfieldmanagementonline. com May 2025 | SportsField Management
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