ITF

34 FACILITIES GUIDE | JUNE 2020 makes it more likely that a surface can be used all year round. Grass is not normally an indoor surface, as it requires direct sunlight to grow. Maintenance Surfaces require different types of maintenance. For instance, clay courts require irrigation and need regular sweeping and watering, whereas acrylic courts need very little daily maintenance, but are unavailable for days/weeks during resurfacing. Which is best suited to your intended users? LOCAL ENVIRONMENT Climate What is the climate like? For outdoor courts, large temperature and humidity fluctuations may limit the tennis season, and may render some surfaces inappropriate. Grass and clay courts need a steady water supply for maintenance, yet cannot be used during cold winters because of frost damage. Extreme heat is also a potential problem, as it can discolour some surfaces and make some cushioned surfaces 'tacky' (sticky). Local contractors and material Do you have local suppliers and contractors for your chosen surface? An experienced local contractor will be able to advise which surfaces are appropriate for your site conditions and the availability of materials. Search the Suppliers' Directory to see what expertise you have in your area. COSTS Have you estimated the short- and long-term costs? The initial cost and the cost to maintain a court will vary depending on the surface. These should be discussed in detail with the surface contractor, as should the cost of resurfacing. In general, 'softer' courts tend to require more frequent maintenance, but are not as expensive to resurface.

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