When building a recreational court, there are many different court materials to choose from. Depending on the sport you want to play, different materials may need to be used in order to play the game effectively. Different court materials will feel different, look different, have varied bounce rates, and withstand different weather conditions.
Choosing the right material for your needs will require some research about the materials available. This blog will share more about popular material types and how they will serve your specific needs.
Rubber
Rubber is a popular choice for running tracks, playgrounds, pickleball courts, tennis courts, and more. It is a popular choice mainly because of its impact resistance. This helps improve the bounce rate and lower the risk of injuries because of shock absorption.
These courts are great for various outdoor weather conditions and stay durable for many years. Rubber is low maintenance and easy to clean which is often why they are featured in playgrounds and parks. Although they typically are placed outside, rubber courts can be used indoors as well.
Acrylic
Typically used for tennis and pickleball courts, acrylic helps courts to have a bright color with decent cushioning. Although acrylic is more expensive than other materials, it provides a more predictable ball behavior and enhanced durability.
Pickle Court Surfacing works with SportMaster Sport Surfaces, which offers acrylic resin for all courts. This material is resistant to sun damage and has high durability. Our team uses this material because it helps your court to feel professional-grade and last in Utah’s ever-changing weather.
Hardwood
Most indoor courts resort to a hardwood surface, especially for sports like basketball, volleyball, and racquetball. Hardwood offers the best traction for these sports while also offering shock absorption.
The major drawback of hardwood courts is that they are susceptible to moisture. Even if you use this material inside your home or in a recreational area, high humidity or water can cause damage to the court. Hardwood is not a material that should be placed outside where the weather elements can damage it quickly.
Asphalt
Different court materials will need to have some give while also staying durable. Asphalt offers a great balance between cost and optimal performance for sports like basketball or tennis and will reduce the risk of major injuries compared to concrete. Asphalt can also be recycled, making it a great option for homeowners who want to be more eco-friendly.
While asphalt is generally a cheaper court option, it will require more maintenance to remain in good condition. Periodic resurfacing is common for all different court materials, but it is especially common for asphalt because high temperatures can lead to surface damage. While resurfacing a court isn’t cheap, it is a wise investment if you want to keep using the space for years to come.
Concrete
Concrete is a popular choice for outdoor recreational areas because of its durability. The hardness and unforgiving nature of concrete is great for withstanding weather but isn’t great for joint stress or dampening falls. Concrete can be used for sports like basketball, tennis, pickleball, and more because it is so versatile.
Although concrete is durable and versatile, it is prone to cracking. Especially in places with temperature fluctuations, cracking is more common when your court is placed outside.
How Do Materials Hold Up In Different Weather?
Utah sees many different types of weather throughout the year so choosing a durable material is crucial. For the changing Utah weather, our experts recommend that you utilize acrylic or rubber for your outdoor court. Pickle Court Surfacing can coat both concrete and asphalt courts to help them have a barrier between them and the elements. Surfacing helps to improve the bond of your court and allows you to play sports all year round.
Different Court Materials From Pickle Court Surfacing
While customers can customize their court and choose any different court materials they want, our team can help you choose the best option. With SportMaster’s options, you can have a bold-colored court that will withstand different weather conditions.
We provide the highest quality courts in the state. We listen to your vision for your project and provide advice on how to keep your court looking new. No matter what activity you are looking to participate in, Pickle Court Surfacing can make it a reality without the need to leave your home. Improve your backyard or recreational space by giving us a call today!
