Asphalt Tennis Court Construction: A Complete Guide

Tennis courts are a long-term investment that requires proper planning, durable materials, and expert construction techniques. Among the various base options available, asphalt tennis courts have become one of the most popular choices worldwide. Known for their affordability, durability, and excellent playing characteristics, asphalt bases form a solid foundation for both professional and recreational tennis facilities.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about asphalt tennis court construction—covering planning, dimensions, materials, installation process, costs, maintenance, and benefits.

Why Choose Asphalt for Tennis Courts?

Asphalt is widely preferred for tennis court construction due to its:

• Cost-effectiveness – Asphalt is less expensive than concrete, making it ideal for schools, clubs, and community projects.
• Smooth playing surface – Once coated with acrylic systems, asphalt offers consistent ball bounce and player comfort.
• Flexibility – Asphalt expands and contracts slightly, reducing crack formation compared to rigid concrete bases.
• Quick installation – Asphalt courts can be laid and cured faster than other base types, reducing downtime.

Standard Tennis Court Dimensions

Before beginning construction, it’s essential to ensure the court meets standard measurements:

• Singles court: 23.77 m long × 8.23 m wide
• Doubles court: 23.77 m long × 10.97 m wide
• Run-off space: Minimum 3.6 m behind baselines and 3.05 m at the sides
• Slope for drainage: 1:100 (to prevent waterlogging)

Step-by-Step Asphalt Tennis Court Construction Process

1. Site Preparation

• Land survey and soil testing are conducted.
• Excavation is done to the required depth.
• Proper drainage channels are planned to avoid water accumulation.

2. Base Construction

• A compacted stone sub-base is laid to provide stability.
• The area is leveled to achieve the correct slope.

3. Asphalt Layering

• Hot-mix asphalt is applied in one or two layers (generally 25–50 mm thick).
• Asphalt is rolled and compacted to create a dense, even surface.

4. Curing and Settlement

• The asphalt is allowed to cure for 2–4 weeks to ensure stability.
• This waiting period prevents future cracks and surface bubbles.

5. Acrylic Coating Application

• A resurfacer is applied to smooth out minor imperfections.
• Cushion coats (optional) are added for better shock absorption.
• Multiple layers of acrylic color coating are applied for UV resistance and grip.
• Court lines are painted according to ITF standards.

Cost of Asphalt Tennis Court Construction

The cost of building an asphalt tennis court depends on location, materials, and optional features like fencing or lighting. On average:

• Asphalt base preparation: ₹6–8 lakh
• Acrylic coating system: ₹4–6 lakh
• Fencing & lighting (optional): ₹3–6 lakh

Total estimated cost: ₹12–18 lakh for a standard asphalt tennis court in India

Maintenance of Asphalt Tennis Courts

Regular maintenance extends the life of the court:

• Clean debris and dust weekly.
• Check for cracks annually and repair promptly.
• Recoat the acrylic surface every 4–5 years.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage.

Benefits of Asphalt Tennis Courts

• Long-lasting and weather-resistant
• Affordable compared to concrete or clay courts
• Easy to resurface and upgrade with acrylic systems
• Offers professional-level playing experience

Conclusion

Asphalt tennis court construction is a proven and cost-efficient method to build high-quality courts for schools, clubs, housing societies, and private facilities. When paired with ITF-approved acrylic coatings, asphalt courts provide consistent performance, durability, and safety for players of all skill levels.

Whether you’re planning a new tennis court or resurfacing an old one, choosing asphalt as a base ensures a strong foundation for years of play.