How to Create a Backyard Pickleball Court with Brickform Cem-Coat

Pickleball is more popular than ever, and having a court right at home is a dream for many people. Luckily, transforming your backyard into a pickleball paradise is easier than you might think—especially if you have an existing concrete surface. With Cem-Coat Plus, you can create a professional-grade pickleball court that’s durable, customizable, and slip-resistant. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process.

📢 Did You Know?

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with participation skyrocketing by over 200% in the last few years! This surge is driving a boom in court construction, in both public spaces and private backyards.

Why Choose Cem-Coat for Your DIY Pickleball Court?

1. Durability
   Unlike paint that can peel, chip, or fade under heavy use and UV exposure, Cem-Coat Plus forms a strong bond with the concrete that resists wear and tear. Its long-lasting finish ensures your pickleball court stays vibrant and smooth for years.
2. Safety First
   A slip-resistant surface is crucial for safe play. Cem-Coat can be sealed with a non-slip additive that provides the right balance of traction, reducing the risk of falls.
3. Customization Options
   Available in a range of colors, Cem-Coat allows you to create the court of your dreams. Personalize your court with bold colors for the kitchen, service areas, and out-of-bounds lines.
4. Cost-Effective Solution
   Building “a backyard pickleball court from scratch will cost somewhere from $6,000 to $30,000,” says Brian Mackie, co-founder of Pickleheads. Instead you can apply Cem-Coat directly to existing concrete—saving lots of money and time.
5. Easy to Install
   Cem-Coat rolls on like paint, making it simple for both DIYers and professionals to apply. With basic tools like a roller and a squeegee, you can achieve a smooth, even finish.
6. Fast Drying Time
   Cem-Coat dries in just 24 hours, allowing you to apply a sealer the next day. With a total of only 48 hours from start to finish, you can have your court ready for play in a weekend—significantly faster than other concrete coatings.

“The bottom line is Cem-Coat is a lot more durable than paint. It’s made specifically for concrete and won’t peel or flake. The color stays put because it’s sealed in, not just sitting on the surface.”

— Brickform’s Antonio Thomas

Planning & Designing Your Pickleball Court

Before applying Cem-Coat Plus, take time to plan your court layout and design. This ensures a smooth installation and a court that meets your needs.

Court Size & Layout

• A standard pickleball court is 20 feet wide by 44 feet long (including lines).
• Include enough room around the court for safe movement.The USA Pickleball Rule Book recommends a total playing surface of 30 feet by 60 to 64 feet.
• If space is limited, you can adjust the dimensions for a smaller practice court.
• For outdoor courts, align the long sides north-south to minimize sun glare during games.

Color Selection

Cem-Coat Plus comes in traditional pickleball court colors, but you can also create a custom color scheme for a unique look. Popular options include:

• Classic: Blue and green playing surface with white boundary lines.
• Modern: Gray or tan with black lines for a sleek, contemporary look.
• Bold: Custom colors to match your home, favorite sports team, or personal style.

Check out our color chart to see the possibilities.

“Cem-Coat® Plus gives you so many options for color, allowing plain concrete to be transformed into beautiful, long-lasting finishes.”

— Brickform’s John Reynolds

What You’ll Need for This Project

Materials:

• Cem-Coat Plus (Base coating for court surface)
• Overlay Liquid Colorant (For tinting Cem-Coat to desired colors)
• Triple Seven Bond Coat (Optional primer for better adhesion)
• Brickform Safety-Seal (For sealing and slip resistance)
• Painter’s Tape (For marking court lines)
• Concrete Cleaner (e.g., Brickform E-Etch and NeutraClean)
• Concrete Patch Compound (For repairing cracks or uneven spots)

Tools:

• Pressure Washer (3000+ PSI recommended for surface prep)
• Bucket & Mixing Drill with Paddle Attachment (For mixing Cem-Coat and colorant)
• Rollers (¼”–½” Nap for Smooth Surfaces, ¾” for Textured)
• Measuring Tape & Chalk Line (For precise court layout)
• Straightedge or String Line (To ensure straight court markings)
• Paint Brush (For painting court lines)
• Sprayer or Roller (for Sealer Application)

Step-by-Step: Building Your Backyard Pickleball Court

Step 1: Site Selection and Preparation

• Choose a Flat Surface: Ideally, use an existing concrete patio, driveway, or slab. Ensure the area is free from major cracks or slopes.
• Ensure the Slab is Fully Cured: If your concrete is new, wait at least 28 days before applying Cem-Coat Plus.
• Clean the Surface: Use a power washer with at least 3000 PSI to remove dirt, oil, and debris. For best results, use Brickform E-Etch followed by Neutra Clean and a clean water rinse.
• Repair Any Damage: Fill cracks and holes with a concrete patching compound.
• Surface Profile: Prepare the surface to a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) of 1–3 as recommended. Mechanical methods like grinding or etching may be necessary.

Step 2: Applying Base Color

• Mixing: First, combine 4 quarts of water with one full bottle of Brickform’s liquid colorant and mix thoroughly. Then gradually add one full bucket of dry Cem-Coat Plus powder and blend until lump-free. Allow the mix to rest for 3–5 minutes before remixing.
• Priming: Although not required, applying Triple Seven Bond Coat as a primer can enhance adhesion.
• Application: Apply Cem-Coat Plus to a dry, prepared surface using a 1/4″ to 1/2″ nap roller for smooth surfaces or a 3/4″ nap roller for textured surfaces. Thin, even coats are essential to prevent cracking and discoloration. Wait 2 hours between coats, applying at least two coats for durability.

Step 3: Adding Court Lines and Details

• Marking the Court: Once the base color has cured, it’s time to lay out your court lines. Use a measuring tape and chalk line to mark precise boundaries for the kitchen (non-volley zone), service areas, and sidelines. Then apply quality painter’s tape, making sure it’s pressed down firmly to prevent any bleed-under.
• Painting the Lines: Use a contrasting color of Cem-Coat Plus for your court lines. Apply it carefully with a small roller or angled brush for sharp edges. For professional results, apply two thin coats rather than one heavy coat.
• Removing the Tape: Carefully remove the painter’s tape while the coating is still slightly wet to prevent chipping or lifting. Pull at a 45-degree angle for the cleanest results.

Step 4: Drying and Curing

• Dry Time: Cem-Coat Plus should dry to the touch in about 45 minutes. Allow at least 2 hours between coats.
• Curing: Wait 24 hours before applying a sealer and 48 hours before using the court. Protect the surface from moisture and staining until sealed.

Step 5: Sealing the Court

• Sealing: Apply a high-quality concrete sealer once the Cem-Coat Plus has fully cured to enhance longevity and prevent moisture infiltration. This step is crucial for maintaining color and durability. For added traction and safety, use Brickform Safety-Seal with Traction Grip.

Step 6: Adding Accessories

• Net System: A regulation pickleball net is 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches in the center.
• Perimeter Fencing: Prevents balls from rolling away and improves court boundaries.
• Lighting: If playing in the evening, install overhead or directional LED lighting for even illumination.

“Cem-Coat is such an easy and versatile product to work with. It’s crazy durable, long-lasting, and will always keep its color.”

— Dallin at MDRN Concrete Specialties

Maintenance Tips for Your Cem-Coat Pickleball Court

• Regular Cleaning: Sweep or hose off dirt and debris. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
• Sealing: Consider applying a concrete sealer annually to protect against moisture and UV damage.

Creating a backyard pickleball court with Cem-Coat is a practical and affordable solution for players who want to enjoy the game at home. With its durability, safety features, and customization options it is easy to transform ordinary concrete into a professional-grade court. Ready to get started? Gather your supplies, and you’ll be serving in no time!

Sources:

• Brickform, Cem-Coat Plus Technical Information Sheet
• Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), 2024 State of Pickleball: Participation & Infrastructure Report
• Pickleheads®, How to Build a Backyard Pickleball Court – The Complete Guide
• USA Pickleball, Outdoor Court Construction