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How to Measure for Tennis Court Windscreens

Technical Precision for Custom-Fit Privacy & Wind Control

Technical Overview:
Properly learning how to measure for tennis court windscreens is the most critical step in any court renovation. Because windscreens are custom-manufactured, precision is mandatory. Following ASBA standards, this guide covers the “tension bar method,” sectional deductions, and height verification to ensure a professional, sag-free installation.

Precision in how to measure for tennis court windscreens prevents costly manufacturing errors and ensures the fabric enhances the player’s visual backdrop. To begin, you will need a notepad, a pen, and a high-quality measuring tape—a 150-foot steel or fiberglass tape is ideal for these distances to avoid the stretching issues common with vinyl tapes.

Step 1: The Tension Bar Starting Point

The first rule in how to measure for tennis court windscreens is identifying the correct terminal points. Always start at a corner or gate post. Specifically, measure from the outside of the tension bar—the vertical steel strip that secures the chain link to the post. Measuring from the bar rather than the post itself ensures your screen has enough room to be pulled tight without overlapping the structural hardware.

Step 2: Understanding the 60-Foot Rule

A vital part of facility planning is understanding panel limits. As a general industry standard, no single windscreen panel should exceed 60 linear feet. This “60-Foot Rule” provides three main benefits:

  • Ease of Handling: Longer panels are heavy and prone to damage during seasonal removal.
  • Wind Load Management: Shorter panels allow for small gaps at the posts, which helps relieve wind pressure on the fence line.
  • Maintenance ROI: If a specific section is damaged, it is significantly more cost-effective to replace a single 60-foot panel than a 120-foot run.

Step 3: Applying the Deduction Rule

Once you have your “post-to-post” measurement, you must apply a deduction. This is where many DIY installers fail when learning how to measure for tennis court windscreens. Subtract 4 to 6 inches from the total horizontal length. For example, if your fence section is exactly 60 feet, order a 59’6″ screen. This creates a 3-inch gap on both ends, providing the necessary space to use snap hooks or zip ties to pull the fabric under proper tension.

Step 4: Height and Gate Specifications

Measure your fence height in multiple spots, as ground levels often slope. For a professional look:

  • Standard Height: Most tennis fences utilize 6-foot or 9-foot screens on a 10-foot fence.
  • Gate Measurements: Measure from the inside of the tension bar to the opposite bar. Always round down an inch on gates to ensure the screen does not interfere with the latching mechanism.
Pro-Tip: Record every measurement directly onto a court diagram. Labeling sections (e.g., “North Baseline – East Side”) will save hours of confusion during the installation phase.

Selection Guide: Choosing Your Professional Material

Once you have mastered how to measure for tennis court windscreens, select the material that matches your climate and facility needs:

For High-Wind Areas: The Tenn-Air Open Mesh is designed to protect your fence by allowing superior airflow without sacrificing privacy.
For Maximum Durability: Tuffy Vipol-Mesh features lock-stitch construction that is virtually tear-proof, making it ideal for high-traffic public courts.
For Tournament Facilities: Our Tenn-Air Pro is the elite choice for high-opacity backdrops and professional-grade color consistency.

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