Sports Components for Backyard Play Systems
When it comes to designing your backyard landscape, you may initially think of flowers, plants and trees that can be used to beautify the space. However, if you have athletes in your family, adding a sports component to your yard can provide a functional space allowing for games or practice whenever the mood strikes. There are a variety of athletic options for your yard, so you should be able to find a component that fits your family's interests as well as the available space. Does this Spark an idea?
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Basketball Court
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One of the most common sports-related additions to a backyard play area is a basketball court. It is a versatile option because you can install a full or half court, making this a possibility even if you have a smaller backyard. The court surface may be made of concrete or copolymer tiles that are available in a wide range of colors. When it comes to the hoop, you can opt for a professional feel with a permanent hoop that features a glass backboard, or go with a portable structure so you can put it away if you want to use the space for another purpose. To find the right spot for your basketball court, look for an area without low tree branches that would obstruct shots.
Tennis Court
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If you have avid tennis players in your family, they will surely appreciate having a court right in their own backyard. A tennis court that is large enough for singles play usually requires an area of 36 feet by 78 feet, but you can get the most out of the space by using it for dual purposes, such as combining it with a half basketball court at one end. Backyard tennis courts may be made using concrete, clay or asphalt, although concrete is usually the most durable and low-maintenance option.
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Putting Green
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Creating a putting green in your backyard play area allows you to work on your golf game whenever the mood strikes you. You customize your green to be any size or shape that you like and you can use natural grass or artificial turf for its surface. If you plan to use natural grass, place your green in an area that receives full sun for the best growth. Make sure that your spot is not at the bottom of a hill or you may have a problem with drainage. Artificial grass is a costly investment, but it is easier to maintain because you never have to worry about mowing it. No matter which surface you choose, be sure that your green is located away from windows or other items that might be damaged if a ball accidentally veers off-course. Consider adding lights to your green so you can practice your putting after dark.
Volleyball Court
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Installing a volleyball court in your backyard may bring back fond memories of play on the beach. To set up a court, you need a boundary area as well as a play area, which usually requires a 50-by-80-foot space. The surface is usually composed of a gravel bed covered with sand. However, you can also opt for a grass or clay court if you prefer. Drainage for a volleyball court is extremely important, so you may need a drainage ditch to divert water away from the court's lowest point.
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References
- Landscaping Network: Basketball
- Concrete Network; Tennis Court, How to Create Your Backyard Play Court; Anne Balogh
- Landscaping Network: Tennis Court
- Landscaping Network: Backyard Putting Greens
- Purdue Department of Agronomy: Building a Backyard Putting Green; Clark Throssell, Zac Reicher
- Landscaping Network: Volleyball
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
