From intense sun and heavy foot traffic to fluctuating temperatures, summer can take a toll on your sports court, leading to fading, cracking, and costly repairs in the future. Fortunately, with proactive care and maintenance, you can keep your court looking and performing its best all season long. Here are essential tips to protect your court from summer damage.

Clean Regularly

Dirt, debris, and standing water can break down your court’s surface and accelerate wear. During the summer, make sure you:

• Use a broom or a leaf blower to sweep or blow leaves, dirt, and trash weekly. Make sure to focus on the edges and avoid using an abrasive brush, as it could scratch the surface. 
• Use a mop and a mixture of water and a mild detergent to wash the court and prevent the buildup of grime and mold. Rinse with clean water afterwards.
• Spot clean oil or chemical spills with a microfiber cloth immediately to avoid staining. 
• For stubborn stains, use a pressure washer. Just make sure you use low pressure to avoid damaging the court surface. 

Make sure the court is completely dry before continuing any activity. You can use towels to speed up the process, but the surface will need time to air dry.  

Protect Against UV Damage

Prolonged sun exposure during the summer can fade your court’s color and degrade the surface material. To combat UV damage: 

• Consider investing in UV-resistant coatings when resurfacing your court.
• Use shade structures, like canopies, awnings, covers, and windscreens, if applicable.
• Choose lighter surface colors that reflect rather than absorb heat.

Inspect for Early Cracks

Small cracks can quickly expand under heat stress and water infiltration. Ensure you: 

• Walk the court weekly to check for new or widening cracks.
• Seal minor cracks immediately with appropriate filler to prevent further damage.
• Hire a professional if you notice structural or recurring cracks. This could be a sign you need your court resurfaced. 

Manage Water Drainage

Water is one of the leading causes of surface damage. To minimize risk:

• Ensure your court and the surrounding areas are graded to direct water away from the court and prevent standing water. 
• Clean out nearby drains and gutters and regularly inspect drainage systems to avoid overflow onto the court and water accumulation. 
• Fix puddles or low spots where water collects and seeps in.

If you notice standing water on your court, promptly remove it to prevent staining and potential damage. For algae and mold, use a bleach and water solution to treat affected areas. 

Limit Play During Peak Heat

Playing during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.)  not only strains athletes but also stresses the court’s surface. 

• Encourage play during early morning or late evening during the summer.
• Rotate court usage to distribute wear evenly.
• Post signage reminding users to respect maintenance periods.

Apply a Fresh Coat When Needed

Resurfacing not only refreshes your court’s appearance but also protects the base layer. Consider:

• Scheduling a professional resurfacing before damage becomes severe. This is usually every four to eight years, but could be early depending on surface wear and tear.
• Choosing a quality surface system designed for UV and weather resistance.
• Applying a specialized court sealant or wax that will protect the surface and enhance durability. 

Other Tips 

• Trim surrounding vegetation to prevent the encroachment of grass and weeds and the risk of branches falling on players or spectators. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals as they could damage the surface coating. 
• Avoid walking on the court surface when it’s wet or recently cleaned.
• Establish rules about what can and can’t go on the court, such as no bikes, rollerbades or skateboards. 
• Make sure players wear appropriate shoes that won’t scuff or damage the court surface and use correct equipment.  

Protect Your Sports Court This Summer

Your sports court gets the most use during the summer and, in turn, is exposed the most to the elements. By staying proactive and investing in regular cleaning, timely inspections, UV protection, and proper drainage, you can prevent surface fading and cracks before they become major problems. 

A well-maintained court not only looks better but also provides a safer experience for players. So, take the time to care for your court now, and you’ll extend its life, preserve its appearance, and avoid costly repairs in the future. 

Need help with summer court care or resurfacing? Reach out to Utah Court Surfacing, and we can keep your court in peak performance.