Outdoor Basketball Court Construction: Best Practices, Costs, and Designs
Wausau Tile - Basketball Backboards, Rims and Standards
It's no secret that basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. In the U.S. Basalone, over 26 million people play basketball regularly. That's why it's not surprising that basketball courts can be found in almost every city and town.
If you're looking to have a court built, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. In this article, we'll discuss the best practices for building an outdoor basketball court, as well as the costs and designs that are available.
What to Consider When Building a Basketball Court
When building a basketball court, there are a few things you need to consider:
- The dimensions of the court
- Where the court will be located
- The type of court surface
- The budget for the entire project
- Specific design features
- A maintenance plan
Dimensions of a Basketball Court
Wausau Tile - Basketball Backboards, Rims and Standards
The dimensions of a basketball court are critical to the game. Although many people think that any flat surface can be used for playing, there are specific measurements for an official court. The length of a standard regulation court is 84 feet, and the width is 50 feet.
The free throw line, also known as the foul line, is 15 feet from the front of the backboard. The 3-point line is 22 feet from the center of the basket, and lines extend from each side of the court to this point. However, you can adjust these dimensions to fit your needs.
There are also lines indicating the area in which players must stay while waiting for a rebound or during a jump ball situation. These areas are called lane spaces or key spaces, and they measure 16 feet wide by 12 feet deep. Finally, there are out-of-bound lines along the perimeter of the court.
Location of the Court on the Property
Every situation is different, but there are a few basics essential for any outdoor basketball court. First, the court should be level and flat. Uneven surfaces can cause the ball to bounce erratically, making it difficult to play. Second, the court should be well lit. This will not only make it easier to see the ball but can also help prevent accidents and provide more safety for night games. Finally, a sturdy fence should surround the court.
This will keep the ball from leaving the playing area, and it will also provide additional security for players. With these basic requirements in mind, finding the perfect spot for an outdoor basketball court is simply a matter of finding a level piece of land that gets enough sunlight.
Surface Material Options
When it comes to choosing a surface material for an outdoor basketball court, there are some important factors to consider. First, the material should be durable and withstand weather conditions and foot traffic. Second, it should provide good traction so that players can quickly change directions. Third, it should have enough give to absorb impact and reduce the risk of injury.
Wausau Tile - Basketball Backboards, Rims and Standards
There are many materials that can be used for an outdoor basketball court, but the three most popular options are concrete, asphalt and synthetic turf.
Concrete is the most durable option, but it can be slippery when wet and is hard on the joints. Asphalt is also durable, but it can get very hot in direct sunlight and does not provide as much shock absorption as concrete. Synthetic turf is the most forgiving surface, but it can be more expensive than the other options. Ultimately, the best surface material for an outdoor basketball court depends on personal preference and budget.
Determine a Budget for the Court
The cost of building a basketball court depends on the materials and dimensions you choose. Asphalt courts tend to be cheaper than concrete courts, but the latter material will last longer. Expect to pay between $11,000 and $76,000 for the installation of a basketball court. Of course, the amount of grading required and the final surface selected has a major bearing on the cost, too.
The least expensive option would be an asphalt court on an existing flat lot that needs minimal gravel, leveling and excavation. You also need to consider that electrical may need to be run to the court for night lighting.
Are There Any Special Design Features You Want Included?
When it comes to designing an outdoor basketball court, there are many options to choose from. You can opt for a standard court design, or you can add some special features to make the court more unique. For example, you may want to add a hoop and backboard on one end of the court, or you may want to install a basketball goal in the middle of the playing area.
If you have younger children, you may want to include a smaller basketball hoop closer to the ground. You can also add decorative elements, such as paving stones or bricks, around the perimeter of the court. The possibilities are endless, so it's important to think about what features you want before starting construction.
Making Sure the Basketball Court is Properly Maintained
Once the basketball court is installed, it's important to keep it well maintained. This includes keeping the surface clean and free of debris and painting or sealing the surface every few years to protect it from wear and tear.
Asphalt courts require more maintenance than concrete courts, but both types will eventually need to be resurfaced every five to 10 years. The cost of resurfacing a basketball court depends on the materials used but expect to pay between $1,000 and $5,000 for this type of work.
Build Your Outdoor Basketball Court with Wausau Tile Park Equipment
Wausau Tile - Basketball Backboards, Rims and Standards
If you're looking to purchase basketball court equipment, we have a great selection. You can spruce up your park amenities with the dependable, affordable quality you’ve come to expect from Wausau Tile. Provide the fun at your park with ping pong, bag toss or basketball, and be sure to keep your visitors hydrated with concrete drinking fountains.
Don’t forget the pups! We have a drinking fountain suitable for them too. Your park goers will enjoy the great outdoors with all our park amenities.
Contact us today for more information.