Introduction

A professionally built tennis court is a long-term investment, but like any outdoor surface, it is subject to wear and tear over time. From minor imperfections to significant structural concerns, surface issues can affect playability, safety, and appearance. Recognising early signs of damage and addressing them properly is key to maintaining performance year-round.

At Tennis Court Construction Dorset, we’ve restored and maintained courts across Dorset and surrounding areas, helping clients get the most out of their surfaces. In this article, we’ll explore the three most common tennis court surface problems—and more importantly, how our experienced team resolves them with lasting, professional results.

Key Takeaways

  • Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major repairs
  • Proper drainage and resurfacing extend the life of your court
  • Surface upgrades improve safety, appearance, and performance
  • Local conditions in Dorset (weather, soil movement, moss growth) influence surface wear

1. Cracks and Surface Fractures

Issue: Cracks in the court surface are not only unsightly—they can also interfere with gameplay and pose a trip hazard. They’re most commonly caused by ground movement, freeze-thaw cycles, or long-term wear. Over time, small hairline cracks can widen and multiply, especially if left untreated.

How We Fix It:
At Tennis Court Construction Dorset, we start by assessing the extent of the damage and identifying whether it’s cosmetic or structural. Depending on the court type and severity, we may:

  • Fill and seal minor cracks using flexible, UV-resistant compounds
  • Cut out and replace damaged sections of macadam or acrylic surfaces
  • Apply a resurfacing layer to restore evenness and improve aesthetics
  • For extensive cracking, full resurfacing or base layer correction may be required

Our goal is always to stabilise the surface and prevent future movement, giving you a safer and more consistent playing experience.

2. Standing Water and Poor Drainage

Issue: Puddling after rain is a common problem—especially on older or uneven courts. Water that doesn’t drain properly can lead to surface erosion, moss growth, and delayed play. In Dorset’s changeable climate, poor drainage can rapidly affect the condition of your court.

How We Fix It:
We approach drainage issues methodically by:

  • Laser-levelling the surface to identify low spots
  • Reprofiling areas to promote proper runoff
  • Installing or improving sub-surface and perimeter drainage systems
  • Resurfacing with porous materials such as macadam or synthetic turf that allow water to drain through

Correcting drainage isn’t just about playability—it also extends the court’s lifespan and reduces maintenance needs.

3. Moss, Algae, and Surface Discolouration

Issue: Green or black patches of moss and algae are common on courts that are shaded, poorly drained, or infrequently used. These growths make the surface slippery and unsafe, particularly during damp conditions, and can also lead to long-term material degradation.

How We Fix It:
Prevention is key, but we offer a full remedial service that includes:

  • Deep cleaning with specialist equipment to remove moss and biofilms
  • Application of biocidal treatments to prevent regrowth
  • Surface brushing and pressure washing for artificial grass courts
  • Recolouring and surface sealing for acrylic or hard courts

We also advise on routine maintenance schedules, including brushing, moss control, and court cleaning—tailored to your court type and location.

Conclusion

A well-maintained tennis court is a pleasure to use, but common surface issues—if left unresolved—can quickly affect both safety and enjoyment. From cracking and poor drainage to moss and algae, these problems are not only fixable but preventable with the right expertise.

At Tennis Court Construction Dorset, we provide comprehensive tennis court repairs, resurfacing, and upgrades throughout Dorset and the surrounding region. If your court is starting to show signs of age, or you want to future-proof it against common issues, get in touch with our team today.

We’re here to restore your tennis court to top condition—so you can get back to playing, safely and confidently.

This is a photo of a tennis court in Dorset that is in need of refurbishment