Tennis Court Markings Explained: Lines, Dimensions & Materials
Tennis court markings are essential for accurate gameplay, safety, and compliance with official standards. Every line on a court — from the baseline to the service boxes — plays a vital role in the game. Whether it’s a club, school, or private court, correctly marked lines ensure fair play and durability of the surface. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about tennis court markings, including dimensions, types of lines, materials, and the marking process.
The Purpose of Tennis Court Lines
Tennis court lines serve multiple purposes: defining the boundaries for singles and doubles play, guiding service areas, and ensuring consistent gameplay. Properly marked lines improve visibility and reduce disputes during matches.
Lines also play a role in safety and playability, helping players judge distances accurately and avoid collisions. Outdoor courts may require weather-resistant paints, while indoor courts prioritize surface protection and traction.
Tennis Court Dimensions and Line Layout
The standard tennis court measures 23.77 meters long and 10.97 meters wide.
- Singles court width: 8.23 m
- Doubles court width: 10.97 m
- Service boxes: 6.40 m × 4.11 m
- Baseline, centre mark, and sidelines: 50 mm wide
| Line | Width | Purpose |
| Baseline | 50 mm | Defines end of court |
| Singles Sideline | 50 mm | Defines singles court |
| Doubles Sideline | 50 mm | Defines doubles court |
| Service Line | 50 mm | Marks service area |
| Centre Service Line | 50 mm | Divides service boxes |
| Centre Mark | 50 mm | Guides server |
Types of Tennis Court Lines
There are several types of lines on a tennis court:
- Baseline & Sidelines: mark the boundaries of the playing area
- Service Lines: indicate where a serve must land
- Centre Service Line & Centre Mark: divide service boxes and guide serves
- Doubles Sidelines: extend the court width for doubles play
Each line is essential for gameplay and must comply with LTA standards in the UK.
How Tennis Court Line Marking Is Done
Marking a tennis court requires precision, preparation, and the right materials. The typical process includes:
- Surface Preparation: Clean the court thoroughly, repair cracks or imperfections.
- Measurement & Marking Out: Use measuring tapes, string lines, or laser tools to outline line positions accurately.
- Applying Line Paint: Specialist non-slip, weather-resistant paints are applied for durability.
- Drying & Finishing: Allow sufficient curing time before use; inspect for straightness and uniform width.
At Touchlinemarking, we use industry-approved paints and precision equipment to ensure long-lasting, accurate line marking for tennis courts across the UK.
Line Marking Materials and Equipment
- Paint Types: Acrylic, polyurethane, or chlorinated rubber paints are commonly used.
- Equipment: Line marking machines, tape guides, brushes, and rollers.
- Line Color: Typically white or yellow for visibility; some practice courts use different colors.
Maintaining Tennis Court Markings
- Lines should be checked annually for wear and repainted every 12–24 months depending on use and weather.
- Outdoor courts may need weather-resistant coatings; indoor courts may require low-dust, quick-dry paints.
- Regular maintenance ensures consistent visibility and safety.
Common Mistakes in Tennis Court Marking
- Incorrect line dimensions or positioning
- Uneven or wobbly lines
- Using unsuitable paint types for the surface
- Ignoring LTA standards
Professional marking avoids these issues and extends the life of your court.
Professional Tennis Court Marking Services
For clubs, schools, and private courts, professional line marking ensures accuracy, compliance, and durability. Our team provides tennis court marking across the UK for acrylic, tarmac, and synthetic surfaces.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How wide are tennis court lines in the UK?
Lines are usually 50 mm wide, following LTA standards. - What paint is used for tennis court marking?
Acrylic, polyurethane, or chlorinated rubber paints are most common. - How often should tennis court lines be repainted?
Typically every 12–24 months, depending on usage and weather conditions. - What’s the difference between tennis court marking and lining?
Marking refers to the full process, including preparation, painting, and finishing; lining is the term for the lines themselves. - Can you line mark a multi-use games area (MUGA) for tennis?
Yes, multi-use courts can be marked for multiple sports, including tennis, netball, and basketball.
Related Services
- Sports Surface Marking (main category)
- MUGA Court Marking
- Netball / Basketball Line Marking
- Tennis Court Painting
Summary
Whether you’re resurfacing an old tennis court or creating a new one, correct line marking is key to playability and longevity. Contact our team to learn more about professional tennis court marking across the UK.