When developing court layouts, one consideration is soundproofing or dampening. From the number of courts to their proximity to other park amenities or homes, the layout of the soundproof walls can be quite different between plans. The following are some things to consider when planning your wall layout.
Multi-court layouts & Soundproof Walls
With two or more courts, designers must determine how to implement soundproof walls. On the most basic level, courts can each have their own surround or be open between courts, with one soundproof wall on the perimeter of all the courts.
The most sound-dampening approach would be to surround each court with glass panels. However, space and/or financial constraints may hinder this approach.
There must be enough room between courts to provide access to them and space buffers around each court. Ingress and egress to the courts must be possible without interfering with other ongoing games.
Court designers must also allow adequate space between the baselines and sidelines to the wall. With limited space, this may not be possible, leading to the need for a single sound barrier around the entire court facility or at least multiple courts at a time.
Distance to sound-sensitive areas
The distance from the courts to the residential areas, playgrounds, or other common areas is an important consideration for soundproofing. Though rarely the case, if there are no nearby sound-sensitive areas, or they are far enough away from the courts, no soundproofing may be necessary.
Well-designed soundproof glass fencing can dampen decibel levels by 50-75% at readings of 1 to 10 meters ( about 30 feet). The design of the PICKLGLASS™ soundproof wall absorbs sound and deflects it upward, protecting the surrounding park residential areas.
Understanding the intended use and sensitivity of nearby park users and homeowners to loud noise is critical to developing the best court soundproof wall layout.
Aesthetics & Safety of Soundproofing
Designers of tennis and pickleball courts must also consider the aesthetics of the environment in which the courts exist. Creating an appealing visual element allows the courts to blend with the park rather than stand out. This provides continuity in the parkgoers’ experience and makes it more enjoyable.
Safety can be overlooked. Most non-glass soundproofing techniques create a visual barrier to the courts. From the outside, other visitors or residents would not know if something was amiss within the court. Whether it is someone in need of help or someone doing something they shouldn’t, there is no visibility to know if assistance is needed or if authorities should be summoned. Visibility and transparency (literally) are important for community and park safety.
PICKLETILE™ has a great deal of experience helping clients determine the best layout for outdoor court soundproof walls. If you are unsure how to approach your design, give us a call and we’ll be happy to line up the resources you need.
