Weatherproofing Your Outdoor Court for Wisconsin Winters
Wisconsin winters are legendary for their harsh conditions. The extreme weather includes freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and a constant freeze-thaw cycle. These problems can take a serious toll on your outdoor athletic court. Protecting your investment before the cold hits is crucial to prevent structural damage, costly repairs, and surface deterioration.
By following a thorough but straightforward weatherproofing plan in the fall, you can ensure your court remains safe, durable, and ready for action when spring arrives. C&C Court explains how to maintain your athletic court!
Pre-Winter Maintenance: Cleaning and Repair
The most important step is preparing the court’s surface to prevent moisture from causing damage when it freezes and expands. Some primary steps to complete include:
-
Clearing all debris from the surface of the court
-
Inspect and repair any cracks
-
Check and clear the drainage lines
Surface Material Protection
The material of your court is a significant factor in its winter durability, but there are additional steps you can take for any surface type.
-
Choose durable materials, such as plastic modular tiles from C&C Courts
-
Apply a sealant (if applicable)
-
Be mindful of ice removal–Do not use rock salt or chemicals on your court
-
Gently remove snow with a plastic shovel
Equipment and Final Steps
Make sure you store your equipment in a safe place to prevent rust and weather damage. Remove and store all valuable court accessories, such as nets, windscreens, portable hoops, and other items.
If possible, cover the court with a tarp or protective cover to prevent snow and ice from accumulating directly on the surface. This can help prevent cracks and other problems once spring comes.
During the winter, do not allow people to walk on the court surface while it’s covered in snow or ice. This can increase the risk of slip-and-fall accidents and damage the surface.
These proactive steps will help preserve the court’s integrity and extend its lifespan. That way, it’s ready to go once spring comes, and you can get back to your regular exercise and sports!
Contact C&C Courts for All Your Athletic Court Needs
Athletic courts are a big investment, so taking the time to protect them during the winter is essential and saves you money later.
If you’re just in the planning phases of building a backyard game court, C&C Courts is here to help. Our 30+ years of experience building athletic courts in Wisconsin give us an edge when building the most durable courts.
Give us a call at 414-856-5690 or request a free quote online!
