We specialize in the construction, painting, coating, and resurfacing of pickleball courts in the San Fransisco Bay Area.

Contact us at (650) 719-2132 for a free estimate!

How to Build a Pickleball Court

1. Assess the Situation

Here are some things that you should asses before building a pickleball court:

Ground Conditions: The ground should be level and free of rocks or tree roots.

Orientation: For outdoor courts, we typically build the court north-south to minimize sun exposure.

Permits: Consult your local municipality to determine if you need building permits.

Zoning Laws: Ensure the construction complies with zoning laws and homeowner association rules.

2. Court Dimensions and Layout: How Much Space Do You Need for a Regulation Pickleball Court?

The minimum recommended total space needed for a pickleball court is 30 feet wide by 60 feet long.

3. Marking the Court

Lines are painted to indicate the baselines, sidelines, bon-volley zone (kitchen), and service courts.

4. Pickleball Court Surface Material Options

Here are a few surface materials that are commonly used in the construction of pickleball courts:

Concrete: Durable and provides a consistent bounce.
Asphalt: Less expensive than concrete, but may require more maintenance.
Post-Tensioned Concrete: Minimizes cracking and extends the court’s lifespan.
Modular Tiles: Interlocking tiles that are easy to install and available in various materials like polypropylene.
Surface Coating: An acrylic coating designed for pickleball or tennis courts to improve traction and protect the surface.

The choice of material often depends on factors like location (indoor vs. outdoor), budget, and the level of play (casual vs. professional). We can help you decide which material is best for your needs and budget.

5. Construction Steps

A. Site Preparation

Clearing: Remove vegetation, rocks, and debris.
Excavation: Dig to the required depth, usually about 8 inches for the base.
Base Layer: Lay a crushed stone or gravel base and compact it thoroughly.
Drainage: Ensure proper slope (1% gradient) for water runoff to prevent pooling.

B. Installing the Surface

Formwork: Set up wooden forms to contain the concrete or asphalt.
Pouring the Surface: Pour and level the concrete, allowing it to cure properly.
Asphalt: Lay and compact the asphalt in layers.
Finishing: Smooth the surface and allow it to set. For concrete, consider a broom finish for better traction.

C. Surface Coating and Painting

Cleaning: Ensure the surface is clean and dry before application.

Acrylic Coating: Apply according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually in multiple layers.

Line Marking: Use a tape measure, chalk lines, and masking tape to mark the boundaries and then paint the lines with a contrasting color in order to make it more visible.
D. Installing the Net System
Net Posts:
Install sleeves or anchor systems for removable posts.
Posts should be placed exactly 22 feet (6.71m) apart.
Net Installation:
Attach the net to the posts, ensuring the correct height.
The center of the net should be slightly lower than the sides.

6. Additional Features

1. Consider getting fencing installed around the court to keep the ball within the play area.

2. Consider getting lighting installed around the court to allow for night time play.

Additional Considerations

Multiple Pickleball Court Layout: If you’re installing multiple courts side by side, allow at least 10 feet between courts to prevent interference between games.

Cost Estimates: Building a basic pickleball court can range from $15,000 to $30,000. Make sure you have at least this much budgeted if you want to get a court built.

Service Area

Alameda, CA, Albany, CA, American Canyon, CA, Antioch, CA, Atherton, CA, Belmont, CA, Belvedere, CA, Benicia, CA, Berkeley, CA, Brentwood, CA, Brisbane, CA, Burlingame, CA, Calistoga, CA, Campbell, CA, Clayton, CA, Cloverdale, CA, Colma, CA, Concord, CA, Corte Madera, CA, Cotati, CA, Cupertino, CA, Daly City, CA, Danville, CA, Dixon, CA, Dublin, CA, East Palo Alto, CA, El Cerrito, CA, Emeryville, CA, Fairfax, CA, Fairfield, CA, Foster City, CA, Fremont, CA, Gilroy, CA, Half Moon Bay, CA, Hayward, CA, Healdsburg, CA, Hercules, CA, Hillsborough, CA, Lafayette, CA, Larkspur, CA, Livermore, CA, Los Altos, CA, Los Altos Hills, CA, Los Gatos, CA, Martinez, CA, Menlo Park, CA, Mill Valley, CA, Millbrae, CA, Milpitas, CA, Monte Sereno, CA, Moraga, CA, Morgan Hill, CA, Mountain View, CA, Napa, CA, Newark, CA, Novato, CA, Oakland, CA, Oakley, CA, Orinda, CA, Pacifica, CA, Palo Alto, CA, Petaluma, CA, Piedmont, CA, Pinole, CA, Pittsburg, CA, Pleasant Hill, CA, Pleasanton, CA, Portola Valley, CA, Redwood City, CA, Richmond, CA, Rio Vista, CA, Rohnert Park, CA, Ross, CA, San Anselmo, CA, San Bruno, CA, San Carlos, CA, San Francisco, CA, San Jose, CA, San Leandro, CA, San Mateo, CA, San Pablo, CA, San Rafael, CA, San Ramon, CA, Santa Clara, CA, Santa Rosa, CA, Saratoga, CA, Sausalito, CA, Sebastopol, CA, Sonoma, CA, South San Francisco, CA, St. Helena, CA, Suisun City, CA, Sunnyvale, CA, Tiburon, CA, Union City, CA, Vacaville, CA, Vallejo, CA, Walnut Creek, CA, Windsor, CA, Woodside, CA, Yountville, CA