A sport court is a significant investment, and not all contractors approach the work the same way. Asking the right questions upfront can save you from costly problems years down the road.
1. "What's your process for assessing and preparing the base?"
This is the most important question you can ask. A contractor who can clearly explain their approach to grading, drainage, and sub-base compaction understands what actually determines a court's lifespan. Vague answers here — or a contractor eager to skip straight to coating and color — are a red flag.
What a good answer sounds like: specifics about soil compaction, drainage slope percentages, and how they handle existing cracks or an unstable base before any surfacing begins.
2. "What warranty do you offer, and what does it actually cover?"
Warranties vary widely — some cover materials only, others cover workmanship, and terms on drainage or cracking issues differ significantly between contractors. Get the warranty terms in writing before signing anything, and ask specifically what's not covered.
3. "Can I see examples of your past work, ideally a few years old?"
Recently finished courts always look great — the real test is how a court performs after a few Utah winters. Ask for references or photos of projects completed 3-5+ years ago, not just fresh installs.
4. "How do you handle Utah's freeze-thaw conditions specifically?"
A contractor with real local experience should have a specific, confident answer about drainage planning and base construction suited to our climate — not a generic answer that could apply to any region. This question quickly separates experienced local contractors from those without Utah-specific expertise.
5. "What's included in the quote, and what could add cost later?"
Get clarity on what's in the base price versus what's an add-on — fencing, lighting, custom colors, net/goal systems, permit fees. A contractor who's upfront about potential additional costs during the initial quote is more trustworthy than one who leaves it vague and surprises you later.
Bonus: Trust Your Read on Communication
Beyond the technical questions, pay attention to how clearly and promptly a contractor communicates during the bidding process. If getting straight answers feels difficult before you've signed a contract, it's unlikely to improve after they have your deposit.
Ready to Ask Us These Questions?
We'd rather you ask hard questions upfront than be surprised later. Contact Ace Courts for a straightforward quote and honest answers about our process, warranty, and experience building courts across the Wasatch Front.
