How To Build A Grass Tennis Court

By: Kathryn Gierok

Break Studios Contributing Writer

By keeping some basic guidelines in mind, you can learn how to build a grass tennis court. While a standard sized tennis court can fit easily into most American backyards, consider building a singles court if your yard is small.

Equipment:

Spray paint
Measuring tape
Shovel
Rake
Rammer or steamroller
Grass seed
Tennis net
Cement

Find the perfect location for your tennis court. Ideally, the court should be positioned in a spot that is as flat as possible. Measure out an area that is 78 feet by 36 feet for a standard court. However, if you don't have access to an area this large, make the width of the court only 27 feet, and build a singles court.
Remove any obstructions from the area, including rocks, tree roots or branches. Remove the grass with a large garden shovel, and till the soil thoroughly, making sure the dirt is exposed. Remove any rocks or debris that may have been overturned through this process.
Rent a rammer or steamroller from a local hardware store. Pack the soil of the tennis court thoroughly, making sure it is as hard as possible. Spread a thin layer of grass seed over the exposed soil, and water according to the instructions on the bag.
Monitor the grass. Once it has reached a height of 19 mm, it is ready for use. At this point, you can mark the court. Use a can of spray paint to make the perimeter of the court, which should be easy to identify as it has new grass. Draw a center line at 39 feet, which will serve as a marker for the net. In addition, mark lines 21 feet out from both sides of the net, which serve as a boundary for the service court lines. Finally, make sure to draw a line in the center of the length of the court, dividing it into right and left sections.
Purchase a tennis net. These can typically be found at most sporting goods stores.
Dig two holes on either side of the court at the center line. Place the net poles into the holes. Mix up the cement in a wheelbarrow, and fill the remainder of the holes with the cement. Let the cement dry for at least two days before using the court.