For many of us, playing tennis during the winter months means we must find an indoor tennis facility. There are three main types of indoor court structures that facilities can consider.
For many of us, playing tennis during the winter months means we must find an indoor tennis facility. There can be different types of indoor tennis facilities available to you. Whether to attract new participants or to help you reach your potential, indoor tennis facilities play a vital role in the growth of the sport. Covered tennis facilities come in a variety of different shapes and sizes. These various indoor tennis options can be found across the country.
The Types of Covered Court Structures
There are three main types of indoor court structures. All three can be either temporary or permanent depending upon their location and the length of time they are needed during the year.
Air-Supported Structures
Air-supported structures, commonly known as bubbles or domes, are relatively inexpensive and efficient to construct. These facilities usually are comprised of a single or multi-layered fabric and offer an alternative option to traditional buildings. They are erected and supported using air pressure provided by substantial air blowers, which are also used to ventilate and control the climate within the bubble. There are a few different companies who manufacture and install air supported structures that have been applied to tennis court areas, these include:
University of New Mexico - Estes Tennis Complex
Fabric Frame Structures
Fabric frame structures are particularly useful if courts need to be covered all year-round. These structures are more expensive to install than air-supported options, but in the long run thanks to their superior insulation, they will offer substantial savings. Fabric frame structures are modular and usually cover between one and four courts. However, they can be designed to cover as many courts as necessary. One example of a company specializing in fabric structures for indoor tennis is ClearSpan. Fabric frame structures have a longer lifespan than air-supported structures. The fabric usually lasts for 15-20 years, with the framework lasting up to 40 years.
Below is a photo of a fabric structure where Sports Interiors installed its LED Tennis Lighting System:
Rochester Athletic Club - Fabric Structure
Rigid Frame Structures
Rigid frame structures are another type of indoor tennis facility. Steel is commonly used for the construction of its frame. These buildings cost more to construct than the previously discussed structures, but they offer better insulation. This benefit alone can provide long term savings mainly attributed to reduced heating and air conditioning costs. They can be insulated for winter efficiency and air-conditioned for summer use. If the building is well maintained it can last for up to 65 years.
Sports Interiors Advantage
Indoor tennis facilities offer a great way to continue playing throughout the year, even when the weather does not cooperate. If you are considering installing an air structure to cover tennis courts or have an indoor tennis facility and are considering upgrades, give us a call to discuss. We have many years of experience with different types of facilities, including new construction. Contact us at 847-892-6956 or click the button below to connect with a member of our team!
Learn more about our approach to installations at indoor facilities
