How to Build a Backyard Pickleball Court (From a Pro Who’s Played on the Best and Worst)

Pickleball is exploding. By now, everyone knows it.

When I started playing in 2020 during COVID, it was just starting to take off. My mom built one of the first backyard pickleball courts in our area. Fast forward a few years, and now everyone — their mom and their grandma — is playing.

And the next big thing? Not just playing at the park. Not just joining a club.

Building a pickleball court at home.

As a professional pickleball player and the founder of Backyard Pickleball Builders, I’ve played on courts all over the country throughout my career and I’ve seen firsthand how much demand there is for custom backyard pickleball courts, and how easy it is to get it wrong.

If you’re thinking about building one, here’s what you need to know…

Why Backyard Pickleball Courts Are So Popular

There’s a reason more homeowners are choosing pickleball over traditional outdoor courts like tennis or basketball.

• It’s smaller than a tennis court

• It’s more affordable to build

• It’s accessible for all ages

• It becomes a social hub for families and friends

A home pickleball court gives you maximum flexibility. No waiting for court time. No driving across town. No crowded public parks.

But here’s the part most people don’t realize:

Building a pickleball court is much more nuanced than it looks.

Most Backyard Courts Are Built Too Small

The biggest mistake I see? Improper court size and layout.

Yes, the playing lines are 20’ x 44’. But that’s not the full story - you need proper run-off space around the court so you can:

• Move safely

• Hit around-the-post shots

• Avoid hitting your paddle on a fence

• Prevent injuries from crashing into barriers
  

When courts are built too tight,, especially with fencing, players feel restricted immediately. It changes how the game plays. It increases injury risk. And it limits your ability to improve.

A backyard pickleball court should feel open and playable, not cramped.

The Foundation: Asphalt vs Concrete vs Post-Tension

The foundation is the single biggest decision in your project.

You typically have three options:

1. Asphalt

• Lower upfront cost

• More common in some regions

• Can crack sooner depending on soil and climate

2. Reinforced Concrete (Rebar)

• More durable than asphalt

• Better long-term performance

• Higher upfront investment

3. Post-Tension Concrete

• Premium option

• Stronger structural integrity

• Helps reduce cracking over time

• Higher cost, but long-term value

Each material affects:

• Ball bounce consistency

• Longevity of the court

• Maintenance costs

• Overall playability
  

Some contractors think structurally, I think structurally and functionally.

Because I’ve played on world-class courts, and terrible ones, all over the country. I know how a court should feel under your feet and off your paddle.

Fencing, Lighting, and Net Systems: The Extras That Change Everything

The “extras” are where things really get interesting.

Fencing

Fencing can be great. It keeps balls contained and defines the space.

But if your layout is tight, fencing can:

• Restrict movement

• Increase injury risk

• Interfere with advanced shots

Fence height, placement, and material all matter.

Lighting

Lights are incredible when installed correctly.

But poorly positioned lighting can:

• Create glare

• Cast shadows

• Become physical obstacles

Lighting design is not just about brightness — it’s about angle, placement, and minimizing distraction.

Net Systems (Permanent vs Rollable)

Many homeowners assume they need an in-ground permanent net….not always.

Drilling into concrete can:

• Compromise the slab

• Limit flexibility

• Reduce multi-use potential

There are high-quality rollable nets used even at professional events, including tournaments on the PPA Tour.

A removable net allows you to:

• Convert the space for basketball or other sports

• Host events

• Keep your yard flexible

Sometimes permanent makes sense. Sometimes it doesn’t. That’s where guidance matters.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Backyard Pickleball Court?

This is the big question: What is the cost to build a pickleball court?

The answer depends on:

• Your region

• Court size

• Foundation type

• Surfacing materials

• Fencing and lighting

• Site prep requirements

Generally, think of your project in three parts:

1. Foundation

Concrete or asphalt slab installation.

2. Surfacing & Painting

Acrylic sport coatings and line striping applied after the base cures.

3. Accessories

Net system, fencing, lighting, benches, windscreens, etc.

Typical Price Ranges

• $30,000–$40,000
  Smaller court, fewer extras, simpler foundation.

• $50,000–$60,000+
  Post-tension concrete, premium fencing, lighting systems, upgraded finishes.

Every project is custom. And small decisions can move pricing significantly.

Why Working With a Pro Makes a Difference

Here’s the truth: most builders don’t play pickleball.

They understand concrete. They understand grading. They understand structure.

But they might not understand:

• How much lateral space competitive players need

• How bounce consistency affects gameplay

• How sun positioning changes the experience

• How different player levels use the court
  

I bridge that gap.

As a professional pickleball player who manages builds nationwide, I bring:

• A single point of contact

• Clear expectations from day one

• Contractor coordination

• Expert layout planning

• Performance-focused design

Whether you’re a casual family player or a competitive athlete, your court should:

• Feel right

• Play right

• Last for years

Performance, balance, cushion, longevity - those things matter.

You’re not just pouring concrete. You’re building a playing experience.

Final Thoughts: Build It Once. Build It Right.

A backyard pickleball court is an investment in your home, your health, and your social life. But the difference between an average court and a great court comes down to details most people never think about.

If you’re considering building one, make sure you’re working with someone who understands both construction and the game itself. Because once it’s poured, it’s permanent. And when it plays right, you’ll feel it immediately.

If you’re exploring a custom backyard pickleball court, reach out to our team at Backyard Pickleball Builders I’m happy to walk you through layout options, materials, and realistic pricing for your region. You can schedule a free consultation with me directly by clicking here to contact us.

Let’s make sure your court doesn’t just look good — it plays like it should.