Padel Court Maintenance & Care

Artificial Turf Care

The artificial turf playing surface requires regular maintenance to maintain optimal playing characteristics and extend its lifespan:

• Regular Brushing: Brush the surface monthly with a specialized turf brush or drag brush to prevent compaction of infill, redistribute sand, and keep fibers upright. Always brush in multiple directions to maintain an even surface.
• Debris Removal: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris promptly as they can decay and affect drainage. Use leaf blowers (on low setting) or special turf rakes that won't disturb the infill excessively.
• Weed Prevention: Apply environmentally friendly weed prevention treatments bi-annually for outdoor courts in regions prone to weed growth.
• Moss/Algae Control: In humid or shaded areas, use approved anti-moss treatments as needed to prevent slippery conditions.

Sand Infill Management

Sand infill is crucial for the court's performance and must be maintained at optimal levels:

Maintenance procedures include:

• Regular Checks: Inspect sand levels monthly, especially in high-traffic areas like the service boxes and center court.
• Topping Up: Add fresh silica sand every 3-6 months to maintain optimal levels. Always use sand that matches the original specifications (typically 0.2-0.5mm silica sand).
• Decompaction: Perform professional deep-cleaning and decompaction annually to remove contaminated sand and break up compacted areas. This specialized service uses machines that agitate the infill without damaging the fibers.

Cleaning Procedures

Keeping the court clean maintains both appearance and performance:

• Regular Sweeping: Use a soft broom weekly to remove surface debris and distribute sand evenly.
• Stain Treatment: Address spills promptly with clean water and mild soap if necessary. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the artificial turf fibers or affect the drainage properties.
• Professional Cleaning: Schedule a deep cleaning annually using specialized equipment to remove dust, pollen, and other contaminants that regular maintenance cannot address.
• Rainfall Advantage: Natural rainfall helps clean outdoor courts. After heavy rain, brushing the surface once it's dry helps redistribute any displaced sand.

Glass Panel Maintenance

Glass panels are a signature feature of padel courts and require specific care:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean glass panels quarterly with a non-abrasive glass cleaner and soft microfiber cloth. For outdoor courts in polluted areas, increase cleaning frequency to monthly.
• Inspect for Damage: Regularly check for chips, cracks, or impact marks. Even small damage can compromise the tempered glass's structural integrity and could lead to safety hazards.
• Seal Inspection: Check the seals around glass panels every six months to ensure they remain watertight and secure. Replace deteriorated gaskets or sealants promptly.
• Hardware Check: Verify that all mounting hardware remains tight and free from corrosion. Tighten any loose fittings and treat corrosion immediately.

Metal Frame Inspection

The metal structure provides the court's framework and requires periodic inspection:

• Structural Integrity: Visually inspect all metal components semi-annually for signs of bending, deformation, or stress.
• Weld Points: Check all welded joints for cracks or separation during your annual professional inspection.
• Corrosion Protection: Touch up any chips in paint or protective coatings to prevent rust, especially in coastal or humid environments. For galvanized structures, inspect for signs of white rust.
• Bolt Tightness: Verify that all structural bolts remain tight according to specifications. Use a torque wrench for precision when tightening critical connections.

Tension Cables & Net

The net and tension cables are integral to gameplay and require regular attention:

• Net Tension: Check net tension monthly and adjust as needed to maintain the correct height (88cm at center, 92cm at sides).
• Net Condition: Inspect for tears, fraying, or sagging every three months. Address minor damage promptly to extend the net's lifespan.
• Cable Inspection: Examine all tension cables and wires for signs of fraying or wear every six months. Replace damaged cables immediately as they are critical safety components.
• Anchor Points: Verify that all net and cable anchor points remain secure and free from corrosion or wear.

Inspection Schedule

A structured inspection schedule helps identify issues before they become serious problems:

Documentation

Maintaining detailed records is essential for effective court management:

• Maintenance Log: Keep a detailed log of all maintenance activities, including dates, work performed, and any issues identified.
• Photographic Record: Take photographs of any problems or repairs for future reference and warranty claims.
• Warranty Information: Maintain copies of all warranty documents for court components and know the terms and coverage periods.
• Service Contacts: Keep an updated list of service providers for routine maintenance and emergency repairs.

Common Issues

Be proactive about addressing these frequently encountered problems:

• Drainage Problems: Poor drainage manifests as water pooling on the surface after rain. Check and clean drainage channels and ensure proper slope is maintained.
• Turf Wear: High-traffic areas may show signs of premature wear. Rotate court usage when possible and ensure adequate sand infill to protect fibers.
• Glass Scratches: Minor scratches on glass are common but can affect visibility and aesthetics. Professional polishing may help with superficial scratches.
• Hardware Loosening: Vibration from play can gradually loosen hardware. Implement a regular tightening schedule to prevent structural issues.

Winter Maintenance

Cold weather requires specific maintenance approaches:

• Snow Removal: Use plastic snow shovels or specialized equipment that won't damage the surface. Never use metal shovels or aggressive scraping tools.
• Ice Management: Avoid salt or chemical de-icers as they can damage court materials and contaminate infill. Use mechanical methods or approved products specifically rated safe for artificial turf.
• Thermal Expansion: In regions with extreme temperature fluctuations, inspect glass panel gaps to ensure they accommodate thermal expansion and contraction.
• Condensation Control: Indoor courts may experience condensation issues in winter. Ensure adequate ventilation and consider dehumidification systems to protect court components.

Hot Weather Care

High temperatures present unique challenges:

• Surface Temperature: Artificial turf can become very hot in direct sunlight. Consider light watering to cool the surface before play during extreme heat.
• Expansion Joints: Check that expansion joints in the structure and slab remain functional during hot weather when materials expand.
• UV Protection: Apply UV protectant to metal components every 2-3 years to prevent color fading and material degradation from sun exposure.
• Infill Drying: Extremely hot, dry conditions can cause infill to become too dry and loose. Light watering may be necessary to maintain optimal playing conditions.

Humid Climates

High humidity environments require additional precautions:

• Mold Prevention: Apply approved anti-fungal treatments to turf surfaces in humid regions to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Accelerated Corrosion: Metal components may corrode faster in humid environments. Increase inspection frequency and maintain protective coatings diligently.
• Drainage Efficiency: Ensure drainage systems are functioning optimally to handle higher moisture levels and prevent water accumulation.
• Glass Cleaning: Increase glass cleaning frequency in humid environments as moisture can cause spotting and encourage organic growth on glass surfaces.