Many people dream about building a basketball court in their backyards. If this is your dream and you want it to become a reality, we have some tips you’ll want to follow so that you can have the perfect court right in your own backyard.
We’re going to take a look at what makes a good outdoor basketball court as well as how to plan one at your home. From materials to hoops, accessories, and more, we’ve got you covered. Once your court has been built, you’ll be the envy of all the neighbors!
Characteristics of an Outdoor Basketball Cout
Size of the Court
Obviously, the larger the court, the more it will cost. A full-size basketball court is 4,700 square feet or about 94-by-50 feet. Some people opt for a half-court if they don’t have enough room or want to save money. Be sure you know how much space you have to work with.
Land Condition
If the space you’re planning on putting the court on is bumpy and uneven, be prepared to spend a lot of money to prepare the site.
Base Materials
The base material you choose is also an important characteristic of your outdoor basketball court. Most contractors will recommend using concrete or asphalt. Traditional hardwood courts won’t hold up in weather conditions.
Foundation
Any outdoor basketball court needs a concrete slab reinforced with rebar as a foundation. Prepare to pour concrete before installing the court.
Drainage and Grading
You want to make sure the court has the proper drainage, so you’ll need to have drainage and grading work done before having your basketball court installed.
Labor
Labor costs are likely the biggest cost you’ll face when it comes to basketball court construction. Full-size basketball courts can take four to six weeks to build, so consider the amount of labor that is needed and how much it will cost.
Hoop & Accessories
Don’t forget the hoop! Once your court is installed, you’ll need to put in a hoop and any other extras like lights. Hoops are probably one of the least expensive parts of your project. Some people also add fencing and a scoreboard.
Paint
You’ll need several gallons of paint to paint an entire basketball court. You’ll also to have it lined correctly.
Can You Install a Basketball Court by Yourself?
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
While you may have every inch of your dream court in your mind, it’s best to leave the construction to the pros. Making a DIY court is a lot of work and requires a good deal of equipment. Even if you want to install a basketball court by yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
How to Plan Your Basketball Court
Choose the size
While you may envision a huge outdoor basketball court, you may not have the room for it. Be realistic and consider how much you really have for your court. As we mentioned above, you may need to go the half-court route.
Choose the playing surface
A concrete slab is usually the base of a backyard basketball court. You can choose to play on a concrete slab or cover it with other materials like modular tiles, acrylic, or asphalt.
Modular tiles are interlocking polymer tiles that sit right on top of the slab. They snap together easily and provide great drainage.
Acrylic can be added either using a cushioning system or not. Asphalt is another option. It’s softer than concrete and relatively inexpensive. Be warned, it doesn’t last long, so you may want to choose a different material.
Get a permit
Check with your city clerk to see if you need a permit to build a basketball court in your backyard. There’s a pretty good chance that you will one to follow your area’s zoning laws.
Differences Between Indoor Basketball Courts & Outdoor Basketball Courts
If you’re used to playing on indoor basketball courts but are thinking about adding an outdoor basketball court, it’s important to know the difference so you’re not disappointed with your investment.
Surface
Indoor basketball courts are typically made of wood or hard plastic. Outdoor surfaces can be made of concrete, asphalt, or even dirt. If you’re used to playing on indoor courts and switch to outdoor courts, be prepared for a more slippery surface. Outdoor surfaces also have more traction than indoor surfaces.
Lighting
Indoor courts typically have more lighting than outdoor basketball courts. It depends on what type of conditions you like to play in. Some people prefer to play in the natural light versus in an indoor gym.
People usually love to play on outdoor basketball courts because of the fresh air and sunshine. As long as it’s not raining, outdoor basketball courts provide a great space to play basketball.
People also tend to prefer outdoor courts because they present more of a challenge in the game. They have to contend with the wind, uneven surfaces, and outdoor elements which are not an issue on an indoor court. This can make the game more fun for players who enjoy a good challenge.
Are You Looking to Build an Outdoor Basketball Court? Call North State Resurfacing Today!
If you’re thinking about installing a basketball court on your property, call North State Resurfacing. We have licensed basketball court contractors who are ready to take on your job. We will ensure that all of the proper steps are taken to have a basketball court installed properly in your backyard. We can even help you decide when it comes to basic materials and accessories.
At North State Resurfacing, we take pride in our work, and it shows. Take a look at some of our previous projects and see for yourself. We can create a fantastic basketball court at your home and keep your project within budget. We are confident you will be satisfied with our work.
Call us today at (919) 365-7500 to learn more about our basketball court installation services as well as the other services we offer for multi-sport game court installation and tennis court installation. We will send a contractor out to look at your space to help you decide the best options for your outdoor basketball court.