Hardscapes

Everything You Need to Know About Building a Private Pickleball Court

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Written By:
The Reedy River Landscapes Team
Everything You Need to Know About Building a Private Pickleball Court

Pickleball is an exciting paddle sport that is a delightful blend of badminton, table tennis, and tennis elements and it’s played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, with a slightly modified tennis net which promises both fun and competition.

With smaller paddles crafted from solid materials and plastic balls featuring holes, the game is easy to pick up and so engaging that, in recent years, it has exploded in popularity. According to a 2024 USA Pickleball Association Report, the number of players surged to 13.6 million, skyrocketing from just 2.8 million in 2018, making pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America. 

Pickleball draws people from all walks of life and its popularity across the Carolinas is no secret. In this article, we will explore what fuels that remarkable growth and how you can create your own private court to enhance your backyard.

Reasons for Pickleball's Popularity

First and foremost, pickleball is surprisingly easy to learn and play, the rules are straightforward, making it accessible for beginners. Besides, the equipment costs are relatively low compared to other racket sports.

Another significant factor is that it’s a low-impact sport which makes it suitable for everyone, from kids to seniors, as it promotes physical activity without excessive strain. 

Plus, pickleball is inherently social given that most games are played in doubles, encouraging camaraderie and interaction among players. 

With the right ambiance and setup, playing pickleball can turn neighborly chats into friendly rivalries, fostering community bonds. 

Want to know how to set up your very own pickleball court?  

Let’s explore the essentials step by step!

Pickleball Court Size

The first thing you need to consider is the size of your pickleball court. A standard pickleball court measures 20 feet wide by 44 feet long for both singles and doubles play.

When considering adding a court in your backyard, ensure you allow for some extra space around the court; a minimum of 10 feet on each side is recommended for safe movement and playability, bringing your total area to approximately 30 feet by 64 feet.

If you have the luxury of space, go for even more room as more area means better gameplay, especially when it comes to those intense rallies.

Pickleball Court Surfacing Materials

The right surface is crucial for safety, performance, and maintenance with common options being asphalt, concrete, and specialized sports flooring. 

Asphalt is popular due to its cost-effectiveness and durability, but it can be hard on the joints. 

Concrete offers a longer lifespan but may also have a similar impact. 

Alternatively, consider having a specialized pickleball court surface, often made from cushioned materials designed for player comfort and injury prevention.

A well-surfaced pickleball court will not only keep your game in top shape but also ensure you enjoy every minute spent on it, safeguarding against wear and tear.

Pickleball Court Orientation Tips

Orientation matters when it comes to maximizing your pickleball experience. Try to position your court so that players aren’t facing the sun; ideally consider an east-west orientation, as it helps minimize glare during morning or afternoon play. 

Consider wind direction as well; a sheltered spot reduces interruptions from breezy conditions. 

These little details can create a significant impact on your enjoyment and performance during every match.

Surrounding Landscaping

Now let’s talk aesthetics! 

The landscaping surrounding your private pickleball court can transform your space from a simple playing area into an inviting outdoor haven; think of landscaping as ranging from minimalistic ground cover edging to breathtaking expansive backdrops. 

You might envision adding seating areas complete with benches, ensuring friends and family can comfortably cheer on their favorite players or plan on having serene fountains, elegant gazebos, or whimsical pergolas creating a relaxing atmosphere post-game.

For those dreaming big, pavilions can provide shaded retreats, allowing you to host picnics or gatherings after a few spirited matches on your pickleball court, this aspect of design is where creativity truly shines. 

Engaging professional designers, like Reedy River Landscapes, will help you craft award-winning outdoor living spaces that embrace two of life’s greatest pleasures: sports and nature. When considering enhancing your backyard with a pickleball court, check out our Services for more inspiration and innovative ideas.

Creating a beautiful landscape doesn’t just beautify your backyard; it also enhances the overall experience of playing and enjoying your private pickleball court.

Making It Your Own

After establishing the basics, remember to infuse your personality into the pickleball court, consider unique color schemes for court lines, personalized court names, or even custom net designs; make it a space that resonates with your style.

You might choose vibrant colors that reflect your energy or calm tones if relaxation is what you desire after intense matches, it’s about creating a setting that feels right for you yet encourages everyone to join in the fun.

And don’t forget to install proper lighting if you plan on playing in the evenings. Strategic placement of lights will ensure excellent visibility and good times that last long after sunset. 

You’ll be the envy of your neighborhood with those late-night pickleball games under the stars!

Building your Own Pickleball Court

Building a private pickleball court is an exciting journey filled with opportunities for creativity, community, and active living; from understanding the fundamentals of sizing and surfacing to embracing the surrounding landscaping, every decision contributes to the joy of the game. 

As you embark on this adventure, remember that the ultimate goal is to foster connections and create memorable experiences with friends and family.

Whether you're interested in building your own court or enhancing the surrounding landscape on an existing backyard, don’t hesitate to Drop Us a Line to get tailored advice. Additionally, you can explore the art of luxury landscapes in our Blog.

Get ready to serve up some joy!

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