Maintaining a well-functioning court is essential for the safety of players and the longevity of the playing surface. Unfortunately, damage to courts is inevitable over time, whether it’s due to natural wear and tear, weather conditions, or improper maintenance. From cracks and bumps to mold and bubbling, there are various types of damage that can affect a court’s surface, and it’s important to identify and address them promptly. Neglecting damage can result in further deterioration, which could lead to costly repairs or even the need for a complete court replacement. In this comprehensive guide to court damage, we will explore the most common types of damage that can occur to courts, their causes, and the types of damage that can be fixed with repair or resurfacing.
Alligatoring or Scatter-Cracks
Alligator cracking is a common problem that can be observed in the surface treatment of asphalt pavement. This condition is characterized by interconnected cracks that form a distinctive pattern resembling the skin of an alligator. The severity of alligator cracking can vary, ranging from faint surface patterns to full-depth cracks that result in loose particles of the surfacing material.
Fading
Fading occurs when the color of the court begins to fade over time. This can be caused by exposure to sunlight, weather conditions, and chemical damage. While fading doesn’t necessarily affect the playing surface, it can make the court look worn and unappealing.
Peeling
Peeling is when the surface of the court begins to peel away, leaving bare patches. This can be caused by improper installation, moisture damage, or heavy use. Peeling is a serious issue that can affect the safety of the players, as well as the longevity of the court.
Chipping
Chipping occurs when small pieces of the surface begin to chip away. This can be caused by heavy use, improper installation, or weather conditions. While chipping is typically a minor issue, it can become a safety hazard if left untreated.
Bird Baths
Bird baths are small depressions that form on the surface of the court, typically caused by uneven settling or drainage issues. While they may not affect the safety of the players, they can make the court look unattractive and can collect water, leading to additional damage.A bird bath is a common issue in non-porous tennis court surfaces where water accumulates in minor depressions after a heavy rain or flooding. One way to determine a bird bath is to flood the courts and check for remaining water after the surrounding areas have dried. If the water covers the thickness of a five-cent piece, it can be considered repairable. However, if the standing water doesn’t cover a five-cent piece, it is considered tolerable and expected to evaporate within a reasonable period of time. This industry standard is used to ensure that tennis courts are safe and playable for players.
Bubbling
Blisters or bubbles are a common issue that occurs on the surface of an impervious court, especially during warm weather conditions. This phenomenon is caused by vapor trapped between the top of the asphalt or concrete and the bottom of the acrylic color coats. The moisture beneath the court is drawn to the surface by the heat of the sun, causing blisters to appear on the surface. If left untreated, these blisters can eventually burst, creating unsightly patches on the court surface and compromising its integrity. To address this condition, it is important to intercept water from entering the court subbase. Proper drainage systems must be installed to allow excess water to drain away from the court surface. Additionally, regular maintenance and repair work on the court surface can help prevent blisters from forming. If blisters or bubbles do appear, it is important to have them repaired immediately to prevent further damage to the court.
Subgrade Movement
Depressions and upheavals on courts are localized displacements that are caused by changes in the subgrade or pavement structure. Frost expansion in the granular courses beneath the pavement or in the subgrade is the most common cause of upheavals, but it can also be due to the swelling effect of moisture on expansive soils. The failure of the court can be a result of improper drainage below and/or around the court area. Major depressions can be caused by decaying organic matter below the subgrade or improper compaction of the subgrade. To avoid these issues, proper compaction of the subgrade and drainage systems should be put in place during construction. Regular maintenance should also be carried out to detect any signs of upheavals or depressions and take necessary corrective action.
Pitting
Pitting is when small pits or holes form on the surface of the court. This can be caused by heavy use, weather conditions, or chemical damage. Pitting can become a safety hazard if left untreated, as players may trip or stumble on the uneven surface.
Ravelling
Ravelling or spalling is a common problem on asphalt surfaces, caused by the oxidation of unprotected asphalt. This condition leads to a progressive loss of material on the surface of the asphalt. Fortunately, there are methods of repair available to address this issue. Surface treatment coatings or an overlay of asphalt mix, followed by surface treatment coatings, can be used to correct this problem depending on the severity of the condition.
Surface Contamination
Surface contamination occurs when foreign substances, such as dirt or debris, become embedded in the surface of the court. This can be caused by poor maintenance practices, weather conditions, or heavy use. Surface contamination can affect the playing surface and can also be a safety hazard for the players.
Rust Spots
Occasionally, court surfaces may develop rust spots due to iron oxide contaminated aggregate in hot plant mix asphalt levelling course. Rust spots are identifiable by visible rust stains on the court’s surface or trails of rust originating from the iron oxide and leading towards the court’s low side. If left unaddressed, these rust spots may worsen and cause further damage. Therefore, it’s crucial to identify and remove these rust spots from the court surface promptly.
Surface Twists
When a player stops quickly or twists his shoe after new acrylic surface has been applied, the colour coats may get detached from the dark undercoats. If you use your court without letting the material set for the right amount of time, there might be issues. It’s important to exercise caution until the acrylic layers fully bind to prevent damage.
Staining
This occurs when the surface of the court becomes discolored, typically from exposure to chemicals or other substances. Staining is typically a cosmetic issue, but can also affect the playing surface if left untreated.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are types of fungi that can grow on the surface of the court, typically in damp or humid conditions. This can be caused by poor drainage, moisture damage, or lack of sunlight. Mold and mildew not only affect the appearance of the court but can also be a health hazard for players with allergies or respiratory issues.The presence of trees or buildings near the south side of tennis courts can create shaded areas that are prone to developing mold, which can be dangerous for players. The damp mold can make the court very slippery and increase the risk of injuries. It is important to take measures to prevent the growth of mold and to regularly inspect and clean shaded areas of the court to ensure the safety of players.
Algae Growth
Algae is another type of plant growth that can occur on the surface of the court, typically in areas with standing water or poor drainage. Algae growth can make the surface of the court slippery and dangerous for players.
Water Damage
An unfortunately common problem for outdoor courts, water damage can occur when water seeps into the surface of the court, causing damage to the underlying structure. This can be caused by poor drainage, heavy rain, or improper installation. Water damage can be a serious safety hazard if left untreated.
Tree Root Damage
When tree roots grow beneath the surface of the court, it can cause the court to lift or crack. This can be caused by nearby trees or shrubs that were planted too close to the court. Tree root damage can be a serious safety hazard and may require significant repairs. Often entire areas of a court will need to be excavated and replaced, as normal surfacing agents won’t be able to deal with the structural damage from tree roots.
Reflection Cracks
Reflection cracks are an issue that mostly occurs with asphalt overlays. This type of crack reflects the same pattern of the crack in the pavement structure below it. Vertical or horizontal movements in the pavement caused by temperature fluctuations and earth movement are the main causes of these cracks. If reflection cracks occur in an asphalt overlay that is on top of a concrete slab, the cracks will typically follow the construction joints of the original slab. Understanding the root causes of reflection cracks is important in determining the most effective repair methods. In many cases, if reflection cracks are present on a court, the court must be reconstructed – no amount of repair will repair the underlying structural damage.
Animal Damage
Animals such as raccoons, foxes, or squirrels can dig holes or scratch at the surface of the court in search of food or shelter. Animal damage can be a serious safety hazard for players, as it can create tripping hazards and cause uneven surfaces. It’s important to identify the source of the animal damage and take appropriate measures to prevent further damage, such as installing fencing or deterrents, or contacting a wildlife removal service. Regular inspections and prompt repairs can help keep your court safe and enjoyable for everyone.
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Luckily, many types of damage to courts can be successfully repaired. Whether it’s cracking, fading, peeling,most other types of damage, there are solutions available to restore the court to its original condition. With regular maintenance and repairs, you can extend the life of your court and ensure that it remains safe and enjoyable for players.
If you’re in need of court repairs or maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact Encore Surfacing. Our team of experts has years of experience in repairing and maintaining all types of courts, and we use only the highest quality materials to ensure long-lasting results. Whether you need a simple repair or a full resurfacing, we can help.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule your free consultation!