Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Court Survey

July 18, 2016

Actual Survey Date

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I.

Introduction

II.

Facility Information

III.

Facility History

IV.

Recommendations & Conclusions

5-14

V.

Court Analysis

15-30

VI.

Maps - Current State Drawings

Topographic Perspectives
Drainage Perspectives
3-Dimensional Perspectives
Surface Thickness Perspectives

31-46

VII.

Desired Maintenance
A. Daily
B. Periodic
C. Annual

47-49

VII. Did You Know

50

VIII. ASBA Specifications

51-56

Report Information
Author: Ed Montecalvo
Company: Har-Tru Sports
Date: 7/2016

I. Introduction
This Court Analysis Survey was completed at the Longboat Key Public
Tennis Facility on July 17-18, 2016. Ed Montecalvo, Southeastern
Representative for Har-Tru Sports conducted the survey and site
analysis. Kay Thayer, Facility Manager (941-316-8367) requested the
analysis. Facility staff furnished some information in this report. The
rest was obtained through the survey inspection and research of Har-Tru
Sports records. All recommendations used herein are in accordance
with the ASBA (American Sports Builders Association) guidelines for
tennis courts.

II. Facility Information

The tennis facility is located at 590 Bay Isles Blvd., Longboat Key, FL
34230. The tennis facility includes sub-irrigated courts 1-6, designed in
two 3-court batteries constructed in 1998 and includes conventional HarTru courts 7-10, designed in one 4-court battery constructed around 2003.
All 10 tennis courts were examined for this report. The facility is interested
in knowing the current court conditions subsequent recommendations.

III. Facility History

No major court renovation other than annual resurfacing has been done
to the courts since original construction.

Satellite Photo
Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

#4

#5

#6

#1

#2

#3

Picture 1. Longboat Key Public Tennis Center courts 1-6.

Court 1
Picture 2. Longboat Key Public Tennis Center courts 7-10.

Section IV
Conclusions & Recommendations

Where your tennis courts are in terms of the post construction life-cycle and how the
internal components have changed over the years will determine the type of work that
needs to be done.
The surface slope on courts 1-6 has flattened out substantially over the years, resulting in
extremely poor drainage, particularly on the last 38 of the (south) low ends of the courts.
The low ends of the courts stay wet for an extended period of time after a rain storm.
The sub-irrigation system does not function as originally designed. Some system
components do not function at all and the staff has done their best to devise clever ways
to compensate for the system failures.
Inconsistent surface thickness and compaction is resulting in uneven water distribution,
dead spots and poor drainage.
The fencing system is showing signs of deterioration.
These observations are commonly found in facilities this age. As facilities age out
beyond their normal life expectancy, long-range plans should be developed to update the
facility as needed.

Section A
Diagnosis & Recommendations
A-1.0 Diagnosis
Surface Slope
The 3 batteries of courts have different surface slopes ranging from 1
in every 35.71 to 1 in every 100. The correct slope and uniformity
of slope is important to maintain as it provides the necessary drainage
to shed excess rain water in a reasonable period of time. Surface
migration from the high to the low end of the courts has contributed
to the change in slope over time. As a result, the courts take longer
to drain as the slope continues to flatten out.
Current slope ranges from 1 in 35.71 to 1 in 100. The
recommended slope per ASBA guidelines is 1 in 24-40 for subirrigated courts and 1 in 24-30 for above-ground watered courts.
Courts 1-3 1.68 or 1 in every 100 sloped north-to-south.
Courts 4-6 1.68 or 1 in every 71.42 sloped north-to-south.
Courts 7-10 3.24 or 1 in every 35.71 north-to-south.
Curbing
Current slope ranges from 1 in 29.41 to 1 in 77. The
recommended slope per ASBA guidelines is 1 in 24-40 for subirrigated courts and 1 in 24-30 for above-ground watered courts.
Court 1-3
1.56 or 1 in every 77 north-to-south.
Court 4-6
2.16 or 1 in every 55.5 north-to-south.
Court 7-10 4.08 or 1 in every 29.41 north-to-south.

Picture 3. Poor slope. Standing water after a rain.

Surface Thickness and Compaction

Surface thickness on the courts ranges from 1/2 to 1-3/4. Har-Tru
courts are built with a 1 uniform surface. Surfacing naturally migrates
from the high side to the low side of the courts over many years. As
such, the surface on the high side of the court becomes thinner and
becomes thicker on the low side. Surface migration over time will cause
the slope of the court to flatten out and slow down drainage. Courts 1-6
are a classic example. Clay courts usually have to be re-graded every 510 years using laser guided equipment to bring the surface slope back
into the ASBA guideline of 1 in every 24-30 for conventional courts and
1 in 24-40 for sub-irrigated courts.
Surface compaction is contributing to uneven water distribution of an
already deficient sub-irrigation system.

Picture 4. Surface migration & poor slope keeps courts wet longer.
7

Irrigation
Courts 1-6 are watered with the CalCap sub-irrigation system.
Courts 7-10 are watered with 6 sprinkler heads per court.

Picture 5. Court 2 leak below the surface

resulting in additional uneven water
distribution.

Picture 6. Sub-irrigation system

profile.

Picture 7. Surface compaction in the high play

areas effects uniform water distribution.

Biological Growth
There was minimal algae growth along the inside perimeters of the courts.
The staff does a consistent job with surface agitation to keep algae controlled
on the playing surface. Using a Gator Rake will aid in better surface agitation
to reduce the incidence of algae outside the playing surface.

Pictures 8 & 9. Algae growth and scale accumulation. The Har-Tru surfacing is fine under
the growth and scale deposits.

Maintenance Practices
The staff does a fine job maintaining the tennis courts given current
resources. With the exception of the Gator Rake, the staff has all the
proper tools necessary for maintaining the clay courts. The subirrigation system on courts 1-6 is preventing them from providing a
uniform playing surface in terms of even water distribution. The
unreliable performance of the system hampers efforts of providing a
uniformly damp surface, particularly during the summer and can result in
under and over-watered areas.

B- Conclusions
1.0 Surface Thickness & Compaction: Surface core testing was done in
over 30 locations on the tennis courts. We measured a wide variation of
Har-Tru surface thicknesses throughout the courts (see the attached maps)
as a result of long-term surface migration. The recommended Har-Tru
thickness is a uniform 1.00. Surface compaction is excessive and is
contributing to additional uneven water distribution in the high play areas of
the tennis courts, primarily from the base lines to the net lines. This is what
you would expect to find at a busy clay court facility.
2.0 Surface Slope and Drainage
We measured the existing surface slope on all 10 courts and found them to
be outside of ASBA specifications of 1 in every 24-30 for above-ground
watered courts and 1 in every 24-40 for sub-irrigated courts. The courts
are sloped in the ideal direction, north-to-south and end-to-end.
3.0 Sub-Base Conditions
We found a sand base layer thickness on each battery of courts that is
consistent with ASBA construction guide lines in terms of thickness and
gradation.
4.0 Irrigation System
The sub-irrigation system for courts 1-6 has aged-out beyond a level of
acceptable reliability and usefulness. There are areas on the courts where
the system is either under or over watering the clay. One lateral was found
to be flooding an area near the net on the north side of court 2. The subirrigation system should be discarded and replaced with an above-ground
irrigation system or a new sub-irrigation system.
The city should consider switching to well water since the tennis facility
currently pays a sewerage charge for unsewered water, inflating the cost of
water by the sewerage fee. The investment in a well system would pay for
itself in a reasonable period of time.

10

5.0 Recommendation for courts 1-6

Based on all the findings in the report, we recommend the following.
1. Courts 1-6. Option A. Cost $.
a. Deep scarify to relieve surface compaction, add new surfacing
and regrade courts to original slope and uniform surface
thickness.
b. Abandon the sub-irrigation system*.
c. Install an above ground irrigation system.
d. Install a channel drain system on the low ends of the courts.
e. Top dress and install new line tapes.
2. Courts 1-6. Option B. Cost $$.
a. Remove existing curbing on all 6 courts.
b. Install new curbing to provide a uniform end-to-end slope of
1 in 24-30.
c. Remove existing Har-Tru surfacing from courts 1-6.
d. Add sand base material to below top of new curb elevation
after compaction. Finished grade should be a uniform slope
of 1 in 24-30.
e. Install a channel drain system on the low ends of the courts.
f. Install an above-ground irrigation system.
g. Install new Har-Tru surfacing.
h. Optional. Install new fencing
3. Courts 1-6. Option C. Cost $$$.
a. Replace the CalCap system to a new sub-irrigation system.
Courts would be rebuilt on a uniform slope per manufacturer
recommendation. New courts would include a channel drain
system on the low ends of all 6 courts. Modern sub-irrigation
uses 50% less water and requires substantially less daily,
periodic and annual maintenance, all of which result in a
longer life-span of the tennis court. Sub-irrigated courts
allow for less down-time for maintenance and for more play
time, adding at least 1 reservation hour per court per day.
Most importantly, the court surfaces remain consistent
throughout the day, eliminating the wet/dry cycles associated
with above-ground irrigation systems.
b. Optional. Install new fencing system.

* The performance of the CalCap sub-irrigation system will continue to be more

problematic in the future. The system is in a state of aging out and providing unreliable
service.

11

6.0 Recommendation for courts 7-10

Based on all the findings in the report, we recommend the following.
7. Courts 7-10. Option A. Cost $.
a. Deep scarify to relieve surface compaction, add new surfacing
and regrade courts to original slope and uniform surface
thickness.
b. Modify above ground irrigation system into 4 zones.
c. Install a channel drain system on the low ends of the courts.
d. Top dress and install new line tapes.
8. Courts 7-10. Option B. Cost $$.
a. Deep scarify to relive surface compaction, add new surfacing
and regrade courts to original slope and uniform surface
thickness.
b. Modify above ground irrigation system into 4 zones.
c. Install a channel drain system on the low ends of the courts.
d. Top dress and install new line tapes.
e. Install new fencing
9. Courts 7-10. Option C. Cost $$$.
a. Replace the irrigation system to sub-irrigation. Courts would
be rebuilt on a uniform slope per manufacturer
recommendation. New courts would include a channel drain
system on the low ends of all 4 courts. Modern sub-irrigation
uses 50% less water and requires substantially less daily,
periodic and annual maintenance, all of which result in a
longer life-span of the tennis court. Sub-irrigated courts
allow for less down-time for maintenance and for more play
time, adding at least 1 reservation hour per court per day.
Most importantly, the court surfaces remain consistent
throughout the day, eliminating the wet/dry cycles associated
with above-ground irrigation systems.
b. Optional. Install new fencing system.

12

Picture 10. Surface migration over time.

Pictures 11 & 12. Restoring planarity and surface thickness

using laser guided equipment.

13

Picture 13. The laser grading machine.

14

A-3.0 Tools & Equipment Evaluation:

Having the best tools and equipment to maintain your Har-Tru courts is
important in providing a consistent playing surface. The following is a list of
tools and equipment that is necessary for a consistent maintenance
program.
Drag Brush: Soft bristle drag brushes are important to have on the courts
as they provide grooming and keep the surface consistent. Changing out
the bristles when needed will keep your Drag Brush in good shape for
consistent maintenance. Bristles can be easily replaced without the need to
replace the entire brush.
Line Sweepers: Line sweepers should be kept on court and ready for
sweeping the lines when necessary. Make sure that the circular brushes are
not worn and are brushing the lines consistently. The circular brushes are
replaceable.
Aussie Clean Sweep: The Aussie Clean Sweep is designed to pick up
debris on the court surface such as pine needles, leaves, etc. It is also used
in place of brushing when you want a less aggressive surface grooming and
creates less surface drying, particularly during the summer months on the
conventional Har-Tru courts.
Lutes: The Lute / Scarifier is necessary for periodically scraping and
removing loose and/or dead material from the court, scarifying, patching
low areas and making repairs on the surface. Replace the blades as the
serrated teeth wear.
Gator Rake: The Gator Rake will help with deeper scarification (1/16).
Steel Bristle Drag Brush: Having a steel bristle drag brush on hand will
also be necessary when you want a less aggressive scarification than with
the Gator Rake.
Rollers: Having a reliable roller on site is important in the maintenance of
Har-Tru clay tennis courts. Performing preventative maintenance on your
equipment will ensure longevity and consistent results. See Owners Manual
for preventative maintenance schedules.

15

A-4.0

5 Year Budget Maintenance Plan

The following includes a list of goals and time tables based on the site visit.
These timetables can be used for short and long-term budgeting projects.
Subject
Deep scarify,
top dress &
laser grade

Annual top
dressing
Line Tape
replacement

Windscreens
Fencing

Tools &
Equipment

Description
Remove line tapes, deep scarify & laser
grade in additional surfacing to restore
planarity & 1 thickness. Sequence 1
battery of courts each year. Courts 1-3 in
year 1. Courts 4-6 in year 2. Courts 7-10
in year 3.
Annual surface reconditioning with 2-3 tons
of Har-Tru per court should be applied each
spring and fall.
Line Tapes should be pulled up every 2-3
years prior to top dressing. This will ensure
that lines are straight, tight and have no
surface material buildup on either side of
line tapes during the playing season.
Windscreens should be replaced every 3-5
years or as they start to fade, discolor and
get brittle.
Fencing should be painted or replaced as
needed. Keeping this project in a cycle will
help to eliminate a buildup of high
budgetary costs.
Keep drag brushes and hand tools in good
working condition is essential for
maintaining Har-Tru courts. Replacing worn
brushes, lute blades etc. will keep the tools
working properly.

Roller

Having a reliable roller on site will be

important to ensure the best possible
courts. Preventative maintenance will
ensure reliable equipment. Consider
purchasing a tow roller.

Amenities

Paint and or replaced as needed.

Schedule
3-year
sequence

Annually

2-3 years

Every
3-5 years
As Needed

Drag
Brushes,
Line Masters,
Lutes &
Aussies
Grease
annually &
perform
scheduled
preventative
maintenance
As Needed
16

Maintenance
Training

Properly maintained Har-Tru courts ensure

court longevity and consistent playability.
To help ensure your success, Har-Tru Sports
offers information on our website that can
provide the training and knowledge needed.
Attending maintenance seminars gives your
Associates the opportunity to learn best
practices and to meet others in the same
industry while getting hands on training in
a classroom setting and out on the court.
Please contact Har-Tru Sports for more
information or go to our website at
www.hartru.com.

Annually

17

Section V
Court Analysis Section

Section B
B 1.0 Court Symptoms
Drainage, surface compaction, surface thickness, surface planarity, subirrigation system leaks and operation challenges associated with these
issues were the most obvious areas in need of attention.
Section C Geotechnical Information
Upon inspection of the surfaces the following was determined.
C-1.0 Slope
The recommended slope of the sub-irrigated courts is 1 in every
24-40 and 1 in every 24-30 for the conventional above-ground
watered courts.
Courts 1-3. Courts 1-3 are CalCap sub-irrigated courts sloped
north-to-south or end-to-end. The slope is inadequate and
inconsistent on all 3 courts. The variance in slope every 20
ranges between 1/8 and 7/16. The average slope of the courts
is 1.20 or 1 in every 100.
Court 4-6. Courts 4-6 are CalCap sub-irrigated courts sloped
north-to-south or end-to-end. The slope is inadequate and
inconsistent on all 3 courts. The variance in slope every 20
ranges between 0 and 9/16. The average slope of the courts is
1.68 or 1 in every 71.42.
Courts 7-10. Courts 7-10 are conventional above-ground
watered Har-Tru courts sloped north-to-south or end-to-end. The
slope is slightly inconsistent. The variance in slope every 20
ranges between 5/16 and 13/16. The average slope of the
courts is 3.36 or 1 in every 35.71.
Har-Tru courts are constructed on a slope of 1 in 24 to 40 in a
single plane. As the natural weather erosion processes of wind
and water act upon the surface of the court, the slope will be
slowly reduced as the particles of Har-Tru slowly migrate from the
high side to the low side of the court. Chart 1 illustrates both the
existing & recommended slope of the court surfaces and curbs.

19

Courts #
1-3
4-6
7-10

Surface Slope
1 in every 100
1 in every 71.42
1 in every 35.71

Curb Slope
1 in every 77
1 in every 55.5
1 in every 29.41

Recommended Slope
1 in every 24-40
1 in every 24-40
1 in every 24-30

Chart 1. Existing and recommended slope. Slope on courts 1-6 is seriously deficient.

Picture 13. Poor drainage.

Picture 14. Inadequate slope & drainage on courts 1-6.

20

C-2.0 Drainage
When it comes to drainage, the objective is to get water off the
courts in the best possible direction on a slope of 1 inch in 24 to 40.
The slope should be verified every 5-7 years and re-graded using laser
guided equipment when necessary.
In the event the facility would need to modify the drainage on the low
end of the courts in the future, the channel drains pictured below would
be an excellent means of controlling run-off. These drains can be
installed just inside the curb-line as illustrated below. They typically are
installed at court level and have dropouts periodically to direct the water
to a storm drain. The drains should be installed by a tennis court
contractor.

Picture 15. Channel drain

installation

21

C-3.0 Silting
Silting is a deposit of finer particles of Har-Tru
that float on top of the water during a rain
storm and accumulate in low areas on the
court. Poor drainage can cause silting.
Ensuring the correct slope, drainage and
patching of low areas will keep silting from
occurring.

Picture 16. Silting on courts 7-10

C-4.0 Surface Thickness

Chart #2 below shows the average surface thickness of surface. As the
slope changes over time so does the thickness of the Har-Tru surface. A
new court is built with 1 of compacted Har-Tru. Over time, erosion and
water run-off will move some of the surface toward the low side,
reducing the total surface thickness on the high side.
Variations in surface thickness will affect uniform drainage and water
retention, particularly in dry weather. Deep scarification and laser
grading on new surfacing will restore planarity and surface thickness.
Court
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

Surface Thickness Variance

1 to 1-3/4
3/4 to 1-3/4
1 to 1-3/4
3/8 to 1
5/8 to 3/4
3/4 to 1-1/4
7/8 to 1-3/4
1 to 1-1/2
3/4 t o1-1/2
1/2 to 1-1/4

Chart 2. Surface variance.

22

Picture 17. Recommended 1 minimum thickness.

C-5.0 Base Layers

The base layers of a Har-Tru tennis court serve two purposes to
provide a stable surface to hold the Har-Tru in place, and to act as a
reservoir for storing and releasing water throughout the day via capillary
action. As such, the base must be stable and permeable to function
properly. All 10 courts have a stable and permeable sand base layer.

Picture 18. Sand base layer on all 10 courts is within

ASBA guidelines.

23

Section D General Court Information

Upon inspection of the courts, the following was determined.
D-1.0 Perimeter Edging
Curbing is designed to maintain the integrity of the courts as it stabilizes both
the stone base and holds the Har-Tru in place. Although the curbs are good
condition, the curbs on courts 1-6 will eventually need to be replaced to
proper grade.
D-2.0 Fencing
The fencing on courts 1-10 is showing signs of normal aging and deterioration
and will need to be replaced eventually but are structurally sound at this
point.

Picture 19. Aging fencing.

Picture 20. Fencing fabric falling apart.

Picture 21. Aging fencing.

24

D-3.0 Irrigation System

The Irrigation system on courts 1-6 needs to be replaced, either with an
above-ground system or a sub-irrigation system. The irrigation system on
courts 7-10 needs to be zoned into 4 zones.

Pictures 22 & 23. Sub-irrigation system lines have been modified with automatic shut-off
sensors to improve system performance to a point.

Pictures 24 & 25. Sub-irrigation system moisture sensors have corroded and been replaced
with shut-off switches and timers.

25

D-4.0 Windscreen
The windscreens around the courts were in good condition with minimal
signs of wear. Windscreens should be replaced every 3-5 years.

Picture 26. Windscreen in good condition.

D-5.0 Amenities
The amenities observed:
Item
Herringbone punched line tapes

Condition
Wearing condition

External wind net posts

Rusting

Nets

Good condition

Windscreens

Good condition

Line Tapes
See Herringbone
the following punched
conclusions.
The
line tapes appear to be straight and tight but
in a state of wear. Line tapes should be removed each year prior to topdressing and replaced after top-dressing has occurred. This practice will
ensure the surface material does not build up around the court lines.

26

Net Posts
The Net Posts on all courts inspected were holding consistent net tension.
The posts should be cleaned and painted every year.

ASBA Specifications
Net Posts and Sleeves
Posts and post sleeves should be
set 42 apart for a doubles court,
measured from the center of
one post to the center of the
other. For tournament use, it is
recommended that a second set
of net post sleeves be supplied
33 (center to center) apart for
singles play. Posts should be set
plumb and true so as to support
the net at a height of 42 above
the court surface.

Picture 27. Net posts deteriorating.

Pictures 28 & 29. Replace deteriorating net posts.

27

Nets
The nets on the tennis courts are in good condition with no holes or frayed areas.
See the instructions for tying the nets to the net post.

Court Seating / Shade Shelters

Shade shelters and court seating were found to be in good condition.
E-1.0 Biological Growth
The tennis courts had a minimal amount of algae growth around the
perimeter of the courts. Use of the Gator Rake around the perimeters will
reduce algae substantially.

28

F-1.0 Tools and Equipment

With the exception of the Gator Rake and the tow roller, the staff has all
the tools necessary to maintain the tennis courts, including the roller, drag
brushes, line sweepers, Aussie Clean Sweep, Steel Bristle Drag Brush and
the plastic drag mat.

29

Section VI
Har-Tru Court Maps

Courts 1-3

30

31

5.54

5.54
40

5.54

5.53

5.53
20

5.55
40

5.535
20

MAP 1

0
0

60

5.605

5.6

60

5.57

5.57

5.58

5.605

5.61

5.63

5.67

80

5.56

5.575

5.58

5.6

5.63

5.65
5.63

Court 2

100

5.59

5.58

5.58

5.63

5.62

5.63

5.65

120

5.595

5.58

5.615

5.65

5.655

5.65

5.65

7/18/16

140

Court 1

Long Boat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 1-3
Topographical Perspective / Current State

5.57

5.605

5.61

5.61

5.62
80

5.62

5.65

5.62

5.63

5.635
100

120

Court 3

5.57

5.59

5.595

5.65

5.65

5.65

5.665

160

Elevations in Feet

5.6

5.62

5.64

5.67

5.69

5.52

5.53

5.54

5.55

5.56

5.57

5.58

5.59

5.6

5.61

5.62

5.63

5.64

5.65

5.66

5.67

5.68

32

Total Surface Slope = 0.10' or 1.20" or 1" in 100'.

Recommended Slope = 1" in 24'-40'.

5.6

0
0

5.535
20

5.55
40

60

5.62
80

MAP 2

0.12"

0.24"

0.36"

0.24"

0.12"

5.635
100

0.12"

120

5.53
20

5.53

5.54

5.605

5.61

5.62

5.63

5.54

5.57

5.605

5.61

5.62

5.65

60

5.57

5.57

5.58

5.605

5.61

5.63

5.67

80

5.56

5.575

5.58

5.6

5.63

5.65
5.63

Court 2

100

5.59

5.58

5.58

5.63

5.62

5.63

5.65

120

5.595

5.58

5.615

5.65

5.655

5.65

7/18/16

5.57

5.59

5.595

5.65

5.65

5.65

5.665

160

5.6

5.62

5.64

5.67

5.69

5.52

5.53

5.54

5.55

5.56

5.57

5.58

5.59

5.6

5.61

5.62

5.63

5.64

5.65

5.66

5.67

5.68

Direction of Water Flow

The Last 20+ feet has less than 1/8" slope

140

Court 1

5.65

Long Boat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 1-3
Drainage Perspective / Current State

5.54
40

Court 3

33

MAP 3

Area of inadequate slope

Area remains wet
for an extended perod of time

Court 3

7/18/16

Long Boat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 1-3
3-Dimensional Perspective / Current State

Court 2

Court 1

Direction of Water Flow

5.52

5.53

5.54

5.55

5.56

5.57

5.58

5.59

5.6

5.61

5.62

5.63

5.64

5.65

5.66

5.67

5.68

34

20

40

60

80

100

120

MAP 4

Direction of Surface Migration

Recommended Surface Thickness = 1"

5.605

5.6

5.53

5.535

5.53
20

5.54
40

5.54

5.57

5.605

5.61

5.62

5.65

60

5.57

5.57

5.58

5.605

5.61

5.63

5.67

80

5.56

1-3/4"

5.575

5.58

3/4"

5.6

5.63

5.65
5.63

1"

Court 2

100

5.59

5.58

5.58

5.63

5.62

5.63

5.65

120

1"

5.595
140

1-3/4"

5.58

5.615

1-1/4"

5.65

5.655

5.65

5.65

Court 1

7/18/16

Long Boat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 1-3
Surface Thickness Perspective / Current State

1-3/4"

5.54

5.55

1"

1-1/2"

5.61

5.62

5.62

5.635

5.63

Court 3

5.57

5.59

5.595

5.65

5.65

5.65

5.665

160

5.52

5.53

5.54

5.55

5.56

5.57

5.58

5.59

5.6

5.61

5.62

5.63

5.64

5.65

5.66

5.67

5.68

Surface Coring Locations

5-1/2" to 6" Sand Base

5.6

5.62

5.64

5.67

5.69

35

MAP 5

Court 3

7/18/16

Long Boat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 1-3
Curb Elevation Detail

Court 2

Court 1

Courts 4-6

36

37

MAP 6

20

40

60

80

100

120

5.62

5.59

5.62

21

5.6

5.64

5.64

5.62

5.71

5.68

63

5.61

5.615

5.67

5.71

5.7

5.71

5.72

84

5.61

5.62

5.65

5.71

5.705

5.72
5.71

Court 5

105

5.61

5.62

5.65

5.69

5.705

5.71

5.72

126

5.57

5.58

5.65

5.69

5.71

5.71

5.72

Court 4

7/18/16

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 4 - 6
Topographical Perspective / Current State

42

5.65

5.71

5.7

5.69

5.685

5.71

5.71

5.72

5.68

5.73

Court 6

5.58

5.64

5.7

5.73

5.76

Elevations in Feet

147

5.5

5.58

5.64

5.69

5.705

5.72

5.73

38

Total Slope = 0.12' or 1.44" or 1" in 83.3'

Recommended Slope = 1" in 24'-40'

40

60

80

MAP 7

0.12"

20

0.48"

0.48"

0.12"

0.12"

100

0.12"

120

5.62

5.64

5.68

5.685

5.68

Flat Area of Courts

Poor Drainage

21

5.59

5.62

5.64

5.71

5.69

5.71

5.73

Court 6

63

5.61

5.615

5.67

5.71

5.7

5.71

5.72

84

5.61

5.62

5.65

5.71

5.705

5.72
5.71

105

5.61

5.62

5.65

5.69

5.705

5.71

5.72

7-18-16

126

5.57

5.58

5.65

5.69

5.71

5.71

147

5.5

5.58

5.64

5.69

5.705

5.72

5.73

5.58

5.64

5.7

5.73

5.76

Direction of Water Flow

Court 4

5.72

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 4 - 6
Drainage Perspective / Current State

42

5.6

5.62

5.65

5.71

5.7

5.71

5.72

Court 5

5.5

5.52

5.54

5.56

5.58

5.6

5.62

5.64

5.66

5.68

5.7

5.72

5.74

39

MAP 8

Court 6

7-18-16

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 4 - 6
3-Dimensional Perspective / Current State

Court 5

Court 4

Direction of Water Flow

40

Courts 7-10

41

42

60

80

5.53

5.58

5.69

5.73

5.78

MAP 10

0.36"

20

0.72"

40

0.84"

0.48"

0.48"

100

0.48"

120

46

69

5.56

5.6

5.66

5.74

5.8

5.84

5.86

92

5.58

5.6

5.67

5.74

5.8

5.835

5.88

Court 9

115

5.6

5.68

5.74

5.79

5.84

138

5.58

5.625

5.685

5.75

5.82

5.84

5.86

Court 8

161

5.59

5.625

5.715

5.75

5.795

5.85

7/18/16

Total Slope = 0.28' or 3.36" or 1" in 35.71'

Recommended Slope = 1" in 24'-30'

184

5.61

5.63

5.685

5.74

5.795

5.81

5.875

Court 7

5.62

5.68

5.73

5.79

5.8

5.86

207

5.595

Elevations in Feet

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 7-10
Topographical Perspective / Current State

5.56

5.53

23

5.59

5.66

5.74

5.78

5.82

5.895

5.57

5.64

5.74

5.765

5.8

5.84

Court 10

5.62

5.665

5.73

5.77

5.83

5.88
5.86
5.84
5.82
5.8
5.78
5.76
5.74
5.72
5.7
5.68
5.66
5.64
5.62
5.6
5.58
5.56
5.54
5.52
5.5

43

60

80

5.53

5.58

5.69

5.73

5.78

MAP 11

0.36"

20

0.72"

40

0.84"

0.48"

0.48"

100

0.48"

120

46

5.56

5.53
23

5.59

5.66

5.74

5.78

5.82

5.895

5.57

5.64

5.74

5.765

5.8

5.84

Court 10

92

5.58

5.6

5.67

5.74

5.8

5.835

5.88

115

5.6

5.68

5.74

5.79

5.84

138

5.58

5.625

5.685

5.75

5.82

5.84

5.86

Court 8

161

5.59

5.625

5.715

5.75

5.795

5.85

7/18/16

Total Slope = 0.28' or 3.36" or 1" in 35.71'

Recommended Slope = 1" in 24'-30'

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 7-10
Drainage Perspective / Current State

69

5.56

5.6

5.66

5.74

5.8

5.84

5.86

Court 9

207

5.595

5.62

5.68

5.73

5.79

5.8

5.86

Direction of Water Flow

184

5.61

5.63

5.685

5.74

5.795

5.81

5.875

Court 7

5.62

5.665

5.73

5.77

5.83

5.88
5.86
5.84
5.82
5.8
5.78
5.76
5.74
5.72
5.7
5.68
5.66
5.64
5.62
5.6
5.58
5.56
5.54
5.52
5.5

44

MAP 12

Court 10

7/18/16

Direction of Water Flow

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 7-10
3-Dimensional Perspective / Current State

Court 9

Court 8

Court 7

45

Direction of Surface Migration

5.74

5.69

5.57

5.53

23

5.53

1-1/8"

5.64

5.58

1-1/4"

5.765

5.8

1/2"

5.73

5.78

MAP 13

20

40

60

80

100

120

5.84

5.56

5.59

5.66

5.74

5.78

5.82

5.895

69

5.56

5.6

5.66

5.74

5.8

5.84

5.86

5.6

5.67

92

5.58

1-1/2"

3/4"

5.74

5.8

5.835

1"

5.88

Court 9

115

5.6

5.68

5.74

5.79

5.84

138

5.58

1-1/2"

5.625

5.685

1-1/2"

5.75

5.82

5.84

1"

5.86

Court 8

161

5.59

5.625

5.715

5.75

5.795

5.85

7/18/16

Variance in Surface Thickness = 1/2" to 1-3/4"

Recommended Surface Thickness =1.00"

Court 7

184

5.61

1-3/4"

5.63

5.685

1"

5.74

5.795

5.81

7/8"

5.875

207

5.595

5.62

5.68

5.73

5.79

5.8

5.86

3" Uniform Sand Base

Surface Coring Locations

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 7-10
Surface Thickness Perspective / Current State

46

Court 10

5.62

5.665

5.73

5.77

5.83

46

MAP 14

20

40

60

80

100

120

System Hardware

23

46

Court 10

92

115

138

Court 8

161

7/18/16

Irrigation System Was Designed for 4 Zones.

System Was Later Changed To 2 Zone
Too Many Heads Run One Each Zone

Court 7

184

207

Sprinkler Head Locations

Longboat Key Public Tennis Center

Har-Tru Courts 7-10
Irrigation System Perspective / Current State

69

Court 9

Low PSI
Low Volume

Section VII
Court Maintenance

47

VII. Desired Maintenance Process-Har-Tru Tennis Courts

A. MORNING
1. Inspect Har-Tru surface for minor scuffing. If baseline areas require divot
repair, lute and re-dress as necessary.
2. Remove any weed growth problems and foreign debris from the surface.
3. Inspect tapes and nails for lifting of shifting.
4. Groom surface with an Aussie Clean Sweep, Gator Rake or a Drag Brush
depending on moisture conditions. Make wide turns with the grooming tool
to avoid accumulation of Har-Tru material. The Aussie Clean Sweep serves a
dual purpose; as a smoothing/leveling tool (with teeth in the up position) and
a debris remover (with teeth in the down position).
5. Sweep the line tapes. Ensure the line tape area beneath the net has been
swept. Use a Line Scrub to remove surface material that adheres to the line
tape.
6. Roll the surface if necessary. Make wide turns. Avoid twisting and turning
motions that cause surface damage.
7. Sweep the tape lines after the surface has been rolled for a cleaner looking
line (optional).
8. Ensure that the net and center strap is set correctly.
9. Clean benches, coolers, cooler stands, etc. If these items are kept on-court
during the season, move them and groom the surface below on a regular
basis.
10.Wash out the Tennie-Two-Step on a daily basis if possible.
11.Inspect Windscreens.
12.Ensure Line Sweeper, Aussie Clean Sweep, Gator Rake and Drag Brush are
stored properly and do not pose a hazard to players.
B. MID-DAY
Mid-day maintenance keeps the court looking and playing as well during late
afternoon as it plays in the morning. The ideal situation would be for
maintenance time to be scheduled so courts could be brushed, lines swept
and the surface watered properly. The moisture level in the court profile
should remain adequate until the next maintenance period.
C. EVENING
Adequate brushing and thorough watering will ensure quality playing
conditions the following day.
1. Brush in alternate directions, particularly around baseline areas to smooth
surface prior to watering. Alternate direction of brushing on a nightly basis.
2. Water the court in a cycling method to accomplish a thorough watering
during the course of an evening with as little run-off of water as possible.
Proper timing of watering cycles is best determined by observation. The
ideal situation would be for the court profile to retain adequate moisture until
the next maintenance period.

48

1.0 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE

1. Inspect court surface material for any excessive build-up to be removed;
particularly along the net-line.
2. Inspect the court surface for weed growth. Algae control is best achieved by
following these guidelines:
a. Agitate low traffic areas on the court periodically. Use the Gator Rake,
Lute/Scarifier, Steel Bristle Drag Brush, Court Devil or the Lee Tow
Scarifier.
b. Stay on top of growth problems by regular observation and
preventive maintenance practices such as frequent surface agitation.
c. Consult your local county agricultural cooperative extension agent
prior to the purchase and application of any chemicals.
d. Always read the entire chemical label and follow any safety
precautions prior to application.
3. Periodic leveling/smoothing of the court surface may be required, particularly
in areas of heavy play. The best time of the day for smoothing the surface is
during the afternoon when the surface is drier, just before turning on the
watering cycle. Use a regular or Steel Bristle Drag Brush.
4. Periodic observation of the irrigation heads while irrigation system is running
is the best preventive measure to ensure thorough and even water
distribution.

6.0 CONTINUING EDUCATION

Several educational aids are available for staff training; the General
Maintenance Outline for Har-Tru Tennis Courts, the Maintenance Video, the
maintenance DVD and other resources. Visit our web-site at
www.hartru.com for additional information. These products are ideal for
keeping your staff informed, on a regular basis about the most efficient
methods of Har-Tru tennis court maintenance.

Note: A copy of the Har-Tru Maintenance Manual is included with your report for
your review.

49

Did you know, there is continuing health issues with Water

Coolers located on Tennis Courts? They can harbor germs and
bacteria which can contaminate water and cooler spouts.

Did you know, facilities are experiencing some puzzling issues

with Windscreen? Holes are appearing without reason or so it
seems! Leaf blowers are being used around the courts to blow
leaves and debris. When the exhaust from the blowers get too
close to the windscreen, it melts a hole almost instantly.

Did you know, brushing your courts excessively can dry them
out?

Did you know, when algae problems occur on your clay courts,
you can spread the contamination by not discarding the
contaminate surface? Spreading the contaminated surface just
spreads the problem!

Section VIII

ASBA Specifications
Reconditioning Clay Courts

51

Reproduced by permission of the American Sports Builders Association

Section II.N. - Reconditioning Fast Dry Tennis Courts

1.0

Definition
Fast dry is a porous tennis court surface material consisting of natural crushed stone,
brick, or tile, that is ground, screened, well graded, and may or may not be mixed with
a chemical binder to form a stable homogeneous mixture having an affinity for water.

2.0

Introduction
Periodic reconditioning is important to both the performance and life of a fast dry
tennis court. Proper maintenance, both daily and yearly, will maintain a tennis court in
good playing condition and extend the useful life of the court.
Reconditioning is the seasonal replacement of surfacing material lost due to play,
wind and water erosion.

3.0

General Requirements
An annual application of approximately 5 lbs./sq. yd. (2.8 kilos/sq. m.) of fast dry
surface material should be applied, depending on type of irrigation system, intensity of
play, and local climatic conditions. 5 lbs./sq. yd. (2.8 kilos/sq. m.) represents 2 tons
(1814.4 kilos) per court.

4.0

Procedure
A.

Preparation
In preparation for reconditioning, the fast dry court should be cleaned of debris,
groomed by brushing, and then rolled. The rolling insures the bonding of all
usable material. After rolling, the excess loose (dead) granules should be
gathered into piles and removed from the court. Extra care should be exercised
not to remove more material than necessary. If blowers are used, caution should
be exercised so as not to remove usable surface material.
The loose (dead) granules may be used at a later time as top dressing material
on bald, slick and wet areas and on subsurface irrigated fast dry courts.

B.

Location of Depressions
Depressions are generally located in the base line and in the service court areas.
Exact locations may be determined by circling areas retaining water after a rain,
as well as by stretching a string line in several directions and marking low areas.

C.

Correction of Minor Depressions

52

The correction of a depression may necessitate the removal of portions of the

line tapes.
Ideally, the court should be relatively dry before applying new surfacing.
The depression should be scarified to a depth of 1/8" (3mm) to 1/4" (6mm) and
filled with new fast dry surface material. The new surface material should be
spread and compacted in a dry state, then leveled to surface grade with a
straightedge, scraping off any excess materials. The area should be watered to
its full depth and compacted. After watering, light play may resume.
Occasionally, the new surface material may have a tendency to shift and adhere
to the roller. In cases where shifting persists, the area should be cut out to a
depth of 1" (25 mm) below the grade and filled with new fast dry surface
material. The new surface material should be compacted by hand and leveled.
After watering and rolling, play may resume when the patch is firm. After play,
additional maintenance may be required to these repaired areas for several days.
D.

Correction of Major Depressions

In the event that a depression is too broad for a straightedge, a "screed strip"
should be placed in the center of the depression with the top edge set at surface
grade. This strip should be set with an instrument or by stretching a string line to
points at proper surface grade outside the depression.
In leveling the newly applied fast dry surface material, one end of a straightedge
should rest on the screed strip with the other end on the court area outside the
depression. The screed strip acts as a guide for leveling each half of the
depression. After the surface material is installed, the screed strip is removed
and the remaining void patched with surface material.
For correction of major depressions, it is advisable to contact a qualified tennis
court contractor or surface manufacturer.

E.

Correction of High Spots in the Aggregate Base

In areas where the base is high, to the extent that aggregate is exposed in
localized areas, the surface and aggregate should be removed to 1" (25 mm)
below surface grade and filled with new fast dry surface material. After the
surface material is compacted and leveled, the area should be watered and
rolled. Play may resume when the patch is firm.

F.

Top Dressing
After the loose dead material has been removed and the depressions filled and
compacted, appropriate top dressing material should be applied. Above ground
irrigated courts and subsurface irrigated courts may require different top
dressing materials. It may be advisable to contact a qualified tennis court
contractor or surface manufacturer to determine the appropriate material. A
fertilizer-type spreader may be used to apply the top dressing material in several
directions, brushing afterwards. If a spreader is not available, the fast dry top53

dressing material should be applied by spacing the bags evenly and spreading
the material as uniformly as possible. The newly applied surfacing should then
be brushed in several directions to insure a uniform distribution of the material.
The top-dressing material should be hand-watered with a fine spray and rolled.
All line tapes which have been removed should be reinstalled.
It may be necessary to brush, water and roll successively over several days to
insure a bonding of the top-dressing to the existing fast dry surface before
resuming play.
The same procedure should be repeated if additional applications are required.
Subsurface irrigated courts may require special procedures.
5.0

Courts Requiring Additional Conditioning

Courts which are badly worn may necessitate the use of more than the normal 5 lb./sq.
yd (2.8 kilos/sq. m.) (2 tons). The additional fast dry should be applied according to
the procedure above in applications not to exceed 5 lb/sq yd (2.8 kilos/sq. m.).
It is not recommended that more than 10 lbs/sq yd (5.7 kilos/sq. m.) (4 tons) be used
as a top dressing. Courts worn to a greater extent should be resurfaced with no less
than 80 lbs/sq yd (45.6 kilos/sq. m.) (32 tons) using screed strips and a proper
straightedge or laser controlled techniques as discussed in Section 6.0.
For courts requiring extra conditioning, it may be advisable to contact an experienced
contractor or manufacturer.

6.0

Laser Controlled Resurfacing

Fast dry courts that have lost their original slope and planarity may be regraded using
laser controlled equipment, returning the court's proper slope and planarity. Prior to
determining the amount of new fast dry surfacing required, the court or courts should
be surveyed on a 20' grid, recording the surface elevations and the depth of surface
material. After regrading, a minimum of 1 of compacted fast dry surface should be
maintained throughout.
Again for courts requiring this type of resurfacing, a qualified tennis court contractor
and/or surface manufacturer should be consulted.

Note: Refer to Guidelines for:

I.A. General Conditions for Construction
II.A. Tennis Court Orientation
II.B. Tennis Court Dimensions and Related Measurements
II.D.1. Fast Dry Tennis Courts for Use with Above Surface Irrigation
II.D.2. Fast Dry Tennis Courts for Use with Subsurface Irrigation
II.F.1. Above Surface Irrigation Systems for Clay and Fast Dry Tennis Courts
II.F.2. Retrofit Subsurface Irrigation Systems for Fast Dry Tennis Courts
Notice

54

These Construction Guidelines are intended for use by architects, engineers, contractors, tennis court
and running track owners. Parties not experienced in tennis court or running track construction are
advised to consult a qualified contractor, consultant and/or design professional. Experienced
contractors, consultants and/or design professionals can be identified through the American Sports
Builders Association. Due to changing construction technology and techniques, only the most recent
version of these Guidelines should be used. Variances in climate, soil conditions, topography and other
factors may make these Guidelines unsuitable for certain projects.
Copyright 2003 by American Sports Builders Association. All Rights Reserved.

55

We would like to express our gratitude for allowing us to come to your

facility and perform this facility evaluation. It is very important to us that
customers using our products and services are completely satisfied. We
realize the importance of providing to your facility top of the line service not
only helping our customers but in the end helping your customers.
This report is designed to provide facilities a professional review of the
present state of their tennis courts. Once the physical evaluation is
performed, this report is generated to be used as a guide to help correct any
problems found. If requested, we would also send a copy of this report to a
contractor when major issues require outsourced work.
We would be more than happy to discuss the findings in this report as well
as options for renovation and construction. If you have any questions
concerning Har-Tru tennis court construction, maintenance or equipment,
please do not hesitate to contact me at 1-877-4HARTRU or
emontecalvo@hartru.com

Our Vision
Developing Champions Around the World

56