How to Build a Padel Court? Building a padel court marks the beginning of a venue where enthusiasts can enjoy this increasingly popular sport, which combines elements of tennis and squash.
In 2025 Padel is thriving, it is estimated that in 2024, Padel is played in over 130 countries. Around 30 million people play padel, half of whom play frequently (1 time per week), and 40% of whom are female. These stats are fantastic to see in such a dynamic game.
A padel court requires careful consideration of its dimensions, as it’s typically 20 meters in length and 10 meters wide for doubles.
The right proportion is critical to comply with official standards and to ensure the playing experience is consistent with global padel guidelines.
Considering the location and surface is just as important as the measurements themselves.
Padel can be played both indoors and outdoors, so selecting the appropriate site involves evaluating the local climate, available space, and intended use.
Outdoor courts allow players to enjoy natural light and surroundings, but they must be built to withstand weather variations.
Indoor courts, on the other hand, offer a controlled environment, though they demand proper ventilation and lighting.
In addition to the dimensions and site selection, the quality of materials and construction method are significant factors that will affect the durability and cost of the padel court.
High-quality materials may bring a steeper price but can lead to lower maintenance costs and a better playing surface in the long term.
Planning for proper installation, including securing building permits and understanding the importance of a stable ground and foundation, is essential to ensure the longevity of the court and the safety of its players.
Padel Court Dimensions
When constructing a padel court, precise measurements must be adhered to, ensuring the court meets regulatory standards and provides a consistent playing experience.
Court Size
A standard padel court is 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width. To accommodate for doubles play, which is the most common form, it requires an overall space of 200 square meters.
For singles, the court dimensions are slightly smaller, typically requiring an area measuring at least 11×7 meters. In any case, an additional 0.5 meters on each side should be included for clearance.
Net Height
The net divides the court into two equal halves and is an integral part of the court’s design.
The height at the center of the net is to be set at 0.88 meters and 0.92 meters at its sides, ensuring a proper balance that doesn’t overly favor serving or returning.
Service Boxes
Each half of the court is further divided into service boxes. These boxes are defined by service lines 7 meters from the back wall and a central line that runs perpendicular from the service line to the net.
The correct dimensions for these boxes are crucial for serving rules and gameplay.
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Location and Orientation
Choosing the right location and orientation for a padel court is crucial for player comfort and the longevity of the court.
These aspects can significantly affect gameplay and the overall experience.
Site Selection
The construction of a padel court requires a careful approach to site selection. A potential location must offer enough space for the court dimensions, which are typically 10 x 20 meters, including safety zones around the court and space for spectators.
It should also be accessible and free from potential obstructions such as trees and buildings.
The ground must be leveled to ensure a flat playing surface. According to Padel Alba, factors such as accessibility and freedom from obstructions are critical.
Sun and Wind Consideration
The orientation of a padel court should minimize the impact of sun and wind on gameplay. Ideally, courts should be oriented north-south to avoid players facing direct sunlight during sunrise or sunset. This orientation helps in reducing glare and sun-related visibility issues.
Additionally, the design should account for prevailing winds, with taller structures or windscreens possibly situated to shield the court. A guide indicates that the amount of sand per square meter of artificial grass varies with the type.
This information, though related to court surface, underscores the level of detail necessary in planning all aspects of padel court construction, including orientation to counteract weather elements.
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Surface and Materials
When constructing a padel court, one must carefully consider the type of surface and the materials to be used, as these will determine the court’s playability, durability, and maintenance requirements.
Type of Surface
The type of surface significantly influences the playing experience in padel. The most common surface is artificial turf, which provides good traction and a consistent bounce suitable for all play levels.
It’s often chosen for its comfort and lower impact on joints. This synthetic material usually comes with a sand or rubber infill for added stability and shock absorption.
Another option is acrylic or resin surfaces, which offer durability and require less maintenance, providing a medium-to-fast paced game.
The choice of surface should align with the intended use of the court, whether it’s for recreational or professional play, as each material has its own effect on the game’s speed and ball bounce.
Fencing Requirements
The fencing not only serves as an integral part of the game in padel but also secures the court. A padel court is typically surrounded by metallic mesh fencing, 4 meters high on the sides and 3 meters at the ends.
This mesh must be sturdy and appropriately fixed to the frame to withstand impact from balls and potential player contact. Glass can also be used, especially for the back walls, enhancing visibility for spectators.
For the construction of a padel court, understanding the different types and materials of fencing is essential due to their impact on gameplay and safety.
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Construction Process
Building a padel court requires careful planning and execution. Each stage of construction is critical to ensure a high-performing and durable court.
Excavation
Firstly, excavation creates a level foundation for the court. The ground is dug to the appropriate depth, and any obstacles or debris are removed to prepare for the subsequent construction phases.
Drainage System
A proper drainage system is essential to prevent water accumulation. Positioning and installation of the drainage should be planned to ensure the court remains dry and playable even during adverse weather conditions.
Surface Installation
After ensuring the foundation is solid and the drainage is in place, the surface installation begins. The choice of artificial grass and the precise amount of sand affects the court’s playability, so meticulous attention during this phase is vital.
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Equipment and Accessories
When building a padel court, selecting the right equipment and accessories is crucial for ensuring functionality and enhancing the playing experience.
This includes high-quality lighting for visibility and suitable benches and shelters for players’ comfort.
Lighting
In order for a padel court to be playable after dusk, adequate lighting is essential. It’s recommended to install LED floodlights that offer bright, even illumination while being energy-efficient.
Optimal lighting ensures players can see the ball clearly without being blinded by glare.
Typically, lights are mounted on poles around the perimeter of the court at a recommended height to balance shadow reduction with minimizing intrusion into players’ sightlines.
Benches and Shelters
Player amenities such as benches and shelters contribute significantly to the comfort and functionality of a padel court. Durable benches should be placed alongside the court for players to rest and store their gear.
Shelters or awnings provide protection from the elements, which is especially valuable in outdoor installations. Materials must be weather-resistant and designed for easy maintenance while complementing the court’s aesthetics.
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