Spring Start Week-by-Week

From winter to playable court – step-by-step guide for Konglungen

Goal is a playable court by the end of May

With good geometry and minimal clay migration through summer. Adapt to weather – monitor forecasts closely (especially wind and night temperatures above +5°C).

Week
10-14

Preparation and Observation

March – early April

Main Focus: Observation without major interventions

Monitor thawing and frost heave

Walk the court after rain/snow melt

Mark major depressions, puddles and unevenness with cones or spray paint

Remove winter debris (leaves, twigs, sand from plowing) with broom or light equipment

Check all lines after winter – look for damage, loose anchors, and proper tension

⚠️ Don't apply clay yet – the court is too cold/wet. This can lead to dust, clay migration and poor binding.

Week
15-17

Structural Work and Leveling

Mid/late April

Priority: Achieve correct slope and evenness with 0–3 mm structural material

Fill depressions and settlements in layers (max 10–15 mm per layer)

Water lightly (moist, not soaked)

Roll thoroughly

Repeat process until evenness is achieved

Check cross-slope with straightedge/board – aim for 0.5–1% from center outward

Repair drainage points (clean ditches/sides if necessary)

💡 Tip: Do this on calm, windless days. Avoid applying dry clay in strong wind – it causes dust and uneven spreading.

⚠️ Critical Rule: Holes filled without compaction always come back, often worse than before. Take time to do it right now!

Week
17-20

Main Surface and Completion

Late April – mid-May

When court is stable and temperature stays above +8–10°C at night:

Apply 0–2 mm surface material in 2–3 thin rounds (approx. 2–4 mm total)

Spread thinly and evenly over entire court

Water thoroughly after each round

Roll lightly

Let dry between rounds

Line maintenance: Adjust tension, replace damaged anchors, roll/stamp down to court level

First brushing and line adjustment when surface has set

Test play from approx. week 19–20 if weather has been good

                    🎾 Line Maintenance in Spring:
                    Inspect all lines: Check for winter damage and wear
Replace damaged anchors/plugs: Ensure all attachment points are secure
Adjust tension: Not too tight (tears up clay), not too loose (creates waves)
Roll/stamp down: Lines must be level with court surface – critical for safety and evenness
Clean line edges: Remove clay buildup along line edges

                

🌤️ Weather Check: Ideal conditions are calm days with little wind and temperatures above +10°C. Avoid applying surface during periods of high wind or incoming precipitation.

Result:

Minimal dust
Good binding of surface material
Properly maintained lines flush with court surface
Durable court that stays excellent all summer

General Spring Tips

Total spring clay consumption: Often 50–70% of season's quantity (approx. 7–12 tons total per court)
Always have buffer: Extra 2–3 tons in stock for unforeseen needs
Line maintenance matters: Properly set lines prevent unevenness and trip hazards all season
Involve players early: Inform about "soft start" the first weeks – court needs to settle
Document: Take photos before, during and after – valuable learning for next year
Weather dependent: These weeks are guidance – always adapt to actual weather and court conditions

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