GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Acrylic Tennis Court Maintenance Guide
General Maintenance
Acrylic tennis courts are relatively low-maintenance, making them an excellent choice for facilities that cannot provide daily upkeep. While natural elements like rain can help clean outdoor courts, regular maintenance extends the court's lifespan and preserves playability. A well-maintained court will provide years of use, while neglect can lead to costly repairs.
Cleaning & Debris Removal
Regularly remove leaves, twigs, and other debris using a soft broom, or blower. Allowing organic material to sit can cause staining and surface damage.
For more stubborn dirt and stains, use a mild detergent with a soft brush or a rotary pressure washer (on a low setting) to avoid damaging the surface.
Mildew and algae, especially in humid climates, can be treated with a mild bleach solution or herbicide. Keeping the court clean prevents the growth of fungus, which does not adhere to well-maintained acrylic coatings.
Avoid placing food and drinks (except water) on the court to prevent spills that can attract mold and cause staining.
Walk-off mats at court entrances help reduce dirt and sand being tracked onto the surface, minimizing abrasive wear
Equipment & Court Accessories
Inspect court accessories, such as net posts, windscreens, and benches, regularly. Order replacement parts or perform repairs as needed. Broken windscreen zip ties should be replaced soon after high wind events. Nets should be tight to net posts to minimize drag against the playing surface.
Keep track of wear patterns, especially in high-use areas like behind the baseline and around net posts. Over time, color coatings may fade or show signs of wear, which can indicate when resurfacing is necessary.
Crack Management
Nearly all asphalt courts will eventually develop cracks as part of the natural aging process. While keeping cracks sealed helps prevent weed growth and minimizes further damage, filling cracks in the fall does not guarantee they won't reopen in the spring. Changes in temperature, ground movement, and normal wear will continue to affect the surface.
Use only crack fillers specifically designed for tennis courts. General-purpose fillers (e.g., driveway sealants) may soften in hot weather and track onto the court, causing additional damage.
Monitor cracks over time and address them as needed but understand that complete prevention of crack reappearance is unrealistic.
Seasonal Maintenance
Pre-Season Preparation
Begin each season by thoroughly cleaning the court and inspecting it for cracks, surface wear, or damage. Treat any mildew or algae before play begins to ensure a safe, slip-resistant surface.
Ensure all nets, posts, and windscreens are secure and in good condition.
Winterizing
Remove all debris before winter to prevent staining, particularly from acidic materials like oak leaves.
While sealing cracks before winter can help, freeze-thaw cycles will still cause expansion and reopening in many cases. The focus should be on long-term monitoring rather than fear of immediate damage.
Avoid shoveling snow if possible. If removal is necessary, use plastic shovels to prevent surface damage. Snow left on a properly constructed court will not harm it and can provide protection.
Do not use salt or ice-melting chemicals, as they may degrade the court surface.
Water Removal & Maintenance Equipment
Acrylic courts are non-porous, so standing water should be removed using foam rollers, water-absorbent drums, or soft squeegees (rubber squeegees may accelerate surface wear).
Power blowers and wet vacuums can aid in removing water, leaves, and light debris.
For deep cleaning, power washers and water brooms may be used cautiously to avoid damaging the surface.
By implementing a consistent maintenance routine, court owners can maximize the lifespan and playability of their acrylic tennis courts while minimizing the need for costly repairs. Understanding that some surface wear and cracking are inevitable helps set realistic expectations for long-term care.
