October, 2001
DO'S AND DON'T'S FOR COATING TENNIS COURTS
Do's
· Do add the sand to the acrylic material prior to introducing
the water. However, a small amount of water may be needed to adjust the
viscosity to reduce the workload of the mixing equipment.
· Do use a soft (flexible) rubber squeegee blade when applying
textured color coating. A still rubber blade should be used when fill
coating, however.
· Do add material to the wind-row by pouring directly onto the
existing material.
· Do follow adding to the wind-row with the squeegee as soon as
possible.
· Do mix (stir) material just prior to using to keep sand in suspension.
· Do keep the wind-row in the lower half of the squeegee during
application- that is the half closest to the applicator.
· Do wash all tools, squeegee blades and brooms as soon as possible.
A wire brush is ideal for cleaning equipment.
· Do apply the coatings in a straight line. Eliminate circular
motions even in restricted spaces such as between courts and/or behind
baselines.
· Do apply the final coat parallel to the net line (particularly
in the play area).
· Do measure mix ratios accurately.
· Do use textured line paint for tennis courts.
· Do apply the line paint with a paint brush and to prevent brush
marks the last stroke of the brush should be towards the wet film.
Don'ts
· Don't apply coatings unless the temperature is 50ºF and
rising.
· Don't apply coatings if the surface has been exposed to freezing
temperatures the night before; i.e., allow the surface to rise to 50ºF.
· Don't apply material if surface temperature is above 140ºF.
· Don't apply subsequent coat until previous coat is completely
dry. The interval between coats is related to the drying conditions. Heat
and low humidity accelerate drying. Applying acrylic coatings during dark
hours is NOT recommended.
· Don't apply acrylic coatings if the surface is wet.
· Don't permit excessive material to remain in low spots on the
final coat; otherwise these areas will mud crack and shine.
· Don't pull material more than 60 feet.
· Don't broom finish any coat containing sand.
· Don't cut masking tape in such a way that it will cut into the
surface.
· Don't play on court surface for at least 24 hours after completion.