Why Strip a Sports Court?
Over time, tennis and multi-sport courts build up layer upon layer of coatings. According to industry guidance, excessive coatings reduce permeability, trap moisture and lead to bubbling, blistering and drainage issues
Common reasons courts require full surface stripping include:
- Coatings beyond their lifespan
- Too many accumulated layers
- Surface bubbling from vapor pressure
- Drainage or permeability issues
- Sub-base problems (asphalt or concrete)
- Change of surface system
Temporary fixes – like patching bubbles, don’t solve the root problem. In many cases, the entire surface must be removed to restore the court properly.
Kleenit uses commercial-grade equipment to mechanically remove old coatings safely and efficiently, creating a clean, stable base for resurfacing contractors to apply new systems correctly.
How We Strip a Court
Surface stripping is heavy-duty work that requires the right machinery and experience. Based on industry best practice methods, Kleenit utilises:
1. Site Assessment
We inspect:
- Coating thickness and condition
- Presence of bubbling or delamination
- High spots or previous patching
- Access and site constraints
2. Mechanical Surface Removal
Depending on the court type and coating system, we use:
Grinding / Milling
This removes coatings to controlled depth, producing a clean, even substrate. It’s also effective around net posts, edges and high spots.
Sanding / Scarifying
This helps to knock back built-up layers to smooth uneven areas, and prepares the surface for routing or repairs.
Crack Routing (If Required)
Simply filling cracks often leads to future failure. Industry best practice involves opening cracks properly before repair. We mechanically route cracks to allow proper repair by resurfacing contractors.
Clean Down
All debris is removed, leaving the court clean and ready for the resurfacing contractor to begin their works. We focus purely on preparation, ensuring the resurfacer starts with the right foundation.
Why Proper Surface Stripping Matters
Prevents Future Bubbling & Delamination
Excessive coatings can trap moisture. Removing them restores permeability and prevents recurring issues
Creates a Clean, Stable Base
Resurfacing over unstable or layered coatings leads to premature failure.
Extends the Life of the New Surface
Correct preparation dramatically improves adhesion and longevity.
Separates Professionals from Pretenders
As highlighted in industry specifications
, scarifying and proper surface preparation are specialist tasks — and not every contractor has the capability.
We Do the Hard Work No One Likes Doing
We know that surface stripping is heavy, messy, time-consuming work. Kleenit takes care of the tough preparation phase so your resurfacing contractor can focus on delivering the finished product.