How to Paint a Tennis Court | Step by Step Guide

Last Updated On September 1, 2023

Want to learn how to paint a tennis court? Look no further! 

In this guide you'll learn:

  • Which tools you'll need
  • How to prep the tennis court
  • Tips for drying the court

And much more!

how to paint tennis courts

Painting a tennis court can seem like a daunting task, but with the right instructions, it can be done in no time! In this blog post, we will walk you through the entire process, from preparing the surface to applying the paint. We'll also give you some tips on how to choose the right paint and keep your court looking great for years to come. Let's get started!

Tools and Materials

Whether you are painting a newly built tennis court or you are repainting an old one, It's important to have the right tools and materials when painting a tennis court, as it will make the process much easier and ensure that the court looks great once it's finished. Some essentials tools need to paint a tennis court are:

  • Pressure washer
  • Concrete filler (for any cracks or holes)
  • Primer
  • Tennis court paint
  • Paint roller and brush
  • Masking tape (optional, for creating straight lines)

Step 1: Choose your paint and colors.

The paint used on tennis courts is non-skid paint. This type of paint contains tiny particles that create a rough surface, which helps to keep players from slipping while they are playing. In addition, the paint also helps to increase the visibility of the lines on the court, making it easier for players to see where they are supposed to be playing.

When choosing your colors, it's important to remember that the traditional colors for a tennis court are green for singles lines and yellow for doubles lines. However, you can also choose any color you want as long as it adheres to game regulations.

Step 2: Preparing the surface.

First things first, make sure your concrete tennis court is clean before beginning any prep work. This can be done with a pressure washer to remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the paint from sticking properly. Next, fill in any cracks or gaps in the surface using a concrete patcher available at most home improvement stores. Make sure to let the concrete dry before starting any painting.

Step 3: Mark off any areas you do not want to paint.

This can include any logos or designs or simply the lines for the tennis court itself. Use masking tape to create straight edges for these areas if necessary. Also, measure out and mark the lines for your tennis court following standard tennis court dimensions. This will ensure that your court is properly sized and marked for gameplay.

Step 4: Prime the surface before painting.

Using a clear concrete primer will help the paint adhere better to the surface and give it a more professional finish. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a primer designed specifically for concrete surfaces. This will ensure that the paint adheres properly and lasts for years to come. Follow the instructions on the specific primer you choose, including any necessary protective gear such as gloves or face masks. Let the primer dry completely before moving onto the next step.

Step 5: Apply the paint.

Using a roller and brush, apply your chosen tennis court paint in thin and even layers. Make sure to follow the instructions on the specific paint you choose, including drying times between coats and any necessary protective gear. You may need to apply multiple coats for an even finish, but be sure to let each coat dry completely before applying more paint. Don't forget to also paint over any lines that were marked off earlier using masking tape. For any smaller areas or details, use a brush to carefully fill in.

Step 6: Remove the tape and touch up any mistakes with a brush.

Once the paint has fully dried, remove any tape you may have used to mark off areas or lines on the court. This will reveal any crisp and clean edges for your design. Use a brush to touch up any mistakes or uneven spots in the paint.

Step 7: Allow the court to fully dry before using it for gameplay. 

Give the paint at least 24 hours to fully dry before using the court for gameplay. This will ensure that the paint has enough time to properly set and adhere to the surface. And there you have it, a freshly painted tennis court ready for use! Remember to reseal and touch up your tennis court every few years in order to keep it looking its best and prevent wear and tear from gameplay. Happy painting!

painting a tennis court

FAQs

The FAQs below include common questions about painting a tennis court. You may find these questions and their answers helpful as you prepare for your upcoming painting project.

Q: How do you paint tennis court lines?

The paint used to mark tennis court lines is water-based paint that dries quickly and is resistant to abrasion. There are a variety of colors available, but the most common color for tennis court lines is white.

The process of painting tennis court lines begins by outlining the edges of the court with a rope. Next, the centerlines and service courts are marked with a spray machine. After the centerlines and service courts are marked, the sidelines and baseline are painted by hand. Finally, the markings are sealed with a coat of clear sealant.

Q: Can you paint a tennis court yourself?

It is certainly possible to paint a tennis court yourself, but it will undoubtedly be a more time-consuming and difficult process than hiring a professional. If you're looking to do it on a budget, one option would be to buy the paint and supplies at a hardware store and then read some step-by-step guides in order to brush up on your painting skills. 

Q: What is the best color for a tennis court?

There is no definitive answer to this question since it depends on personal preference and the surrounding environment. However, a medium-dark green is generally considered to be the best color for tennis courts as it provides good visibility for players and is also aesthetically pleasing.

Q: How much paint do I need for a tennis court?

It can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to paint a tennis court, depending on the size of the court, the type of paint used, and the contractor you hire.

If you're looking to save money, you can purchase paint yourself and do the painting yourself. However, if you're not experienced in painting, it's best to hire a professional contractor who will do a quality job and ensure that your court is safe for playing.

Meet Your Pro Paint Corner Author

Phil Ash

Phil Ash

After running my own painting business and 20+ years of painting experience, I’m still learning new things everyday about how to nail the perfect paint job. In addition to myself, I started Pro Paint Corner to connect you with painting experts to provide unbiased answers to all your painting questions.

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Phil Ash

Phil Ash

After running my own painting business and 20+ years of painting experience, I’m still learning new things everyday about how to nail the perfect paint job. In addition to myself, I started Pro Paint Corner to connect you with painting experts to provide unbiased answers to all your painting questions.

About Pro Paint Corner

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