Installing a game court in your backyard can be the best investment you can make for you and your family.
However, there are important considerations to be taken before you decide.
The answers to these questions will help you determine the right court size for your family's needs:
On a typical mid-sized multi-purpose game court as many as 15 games can be played. Shifting from one to another is typically very easy and fast. To a large extent, what you play will determine the size of court needed.
If basketball is your family's primary sport, a 3 point line may be important. At 19 ½ feet from the rim a full 3 point line requires a court at least 25x45 feet to allow a player to shoot from behind the line.
If volleyball or any other "net" sports are important, except full tennis, 30x60 feet allows for full court volleyball. The basketball hoop is often placed in the middle of the 60 foot side and used as the volleyball net post as you can see in this photo:
This configuration allows for half-court basketball with full court volleyball and other net sports on the same court.
The court size is all up to you and should be very customizable allowing you to create the best backyard environment possible with a few other considerations:
We've just discussed the space and environment inside a court, now we need to address the space requirements on your property:
Other than that you should be able to design and build a fantastic backyard recreation center that your family will enjoy for years. Assuming you can get the appropriate permits from your town.
Your town may require a permit to build your dream court, so:
Building a court is a unique major construction project in your backyard. Choosing the right contractor is critical.
Now that you've chosen a court builder here are some things they should discuss with you. If they don't, it should set off some internal alarms bells.
Building a court in your yard is a major construction project therefore access to the space is crucial.
The contours of your property will determine the amount of work required to create a large flat area.
This will create the hard flat surface from which you can build your court.
"Let them play on concrete, that's what we did" is a common refrain. Unfortunately, the more kids, and adults, play on concrete the more injuries in particular to the growth plates and joints.
Are you dealing with a reputable high quality manufacturer?
Quality manufacturer's offer quality warranties, the last of our Top Tips
Sometimes things can go wrong with any surface, be sure to read the fine print on any warranty to ensure yourself a long happy relationship with your new court.
We hope this guide was helpful and a worthwhile use of your time. We look forward to seeing you out playing with your family soon.