As temperatures drop and the days get shorter, athletes begin to make their way indoors. Many outdoor courts are left empty for a few months, exposed to the elements of the seasons. While a properly installed court can withstand years of the changing seasons, it’s important to take preventative measures to keep your playing surface in top shape. 

Keep reading for tips on how to prepare your outdoor court for the winter. 

Take Down Nets

After your final game of the season, take down nets and windscreens. Strong winds, snow, and ice can cause damage to tennis and basketball nets. With tennis courts, you’ll also want to take down windscreens. Inspect and clean your nets, then store them in a safe, dry place over the winter, so they are ready to go in spring. Lastly, cover post-hole sleeves with sleeve caps. This prevents moisture and debris from entering the sleeves. 

Clean Up

Remove all debris and leaves from the surface of the court. Leaves left on the surface create a slippery court, as well as a layer of moss and mildew that can stain and damage the court. This ends up creating a big mess once the snow melts in spring. Grab your leaf blower and ensure all debris is off your court after the last of the leaves have fallen. 

Make Repairs

As you clean, take note of any cracks or repairs that need to be dealt with. If cracks are left for winter, water can enter and expand during freezing, creating a larger gap after thawing. You can fill small cracks on your own. For larger issues, contact a professional to ensure your court is taken care of. 

These simple steps don’t take very long, but they can add years to your courts!