Tennis court care usually means the surface: grass, clay or hard court. The net and its tensioning gear only get attention when the winder sticks or the posts start to rust. Yet without a working net there is no match.
On outdoor courts the metal parts have a hard life: rain, dew, temperature swings and winter frost. A few simple jobs at the start and end of each season keep the mechanism working for years without surprises.
What you will need
Important: Keep lubricant off the net itself, the cable where players grip it and the court surface: it will become slippery and dirty. Wipe off any excess straight away.
Step 1
Clean the net
Release the tension and wash off the dirt built up over the months. Keep the pressure moderate or you will damage the mesh. Do it on a warm sunny day so the net dries fully: a damp net packed away quickly goes mouldy.
On an indoor court a wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust is enough.
Step 2
Lubricate the net winder
The winder is usually brass, with a handle driving two internal gears that collect dust and moisture over time. Properly maintained, it lasts around 8-10 years.
Flip up the thin straw on WD-40 Smart Straw and spray where the handle meets the winder body. Wait a few seconds, then turn the handle several times in both directions to spread the product through the gears. If the mechanism is open and heavily loaded, add a little WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease after cleaning.
Step 3
Protect the posts from corrosion
Wipe the posts down with a damp cloth from time to time and, once dry, apply a thin coat of WD-40 Multi-Use to the metal parts, fixings and brackets. The film displaces moisture and guards against rust and oxidation, which matters most on outdoor courts.
Step 4
Remove the posts for winter
On an outdoor court it is best to take the posts down for the cold season to protect them from snow and frost. Undo the bolts with a spanner. If they are seized, spray them with WD-40 Specialist Penetrant, wait a few minutes and try again.
Store posts and net indoors in a dry place, and the net only when completely dry.
Step 5
Check the anchors and cable
Inspect the rivets and anchors fixing the winder to its base and make sure they are secure. When raising or lowering the net, keep the cable inside from twisting, otherwise the winder gears are put under extra strain.
Tip: Lubricate twice a year: in spring before the first match and in autumn after washing and drying the winder before storage. The autumn treatment matters more, as winter moisture is what eats unprotected metal fastest.
What next
During the season wipe the mechanisms with a damp cloth once a month and check the handle turns smoothly. For quick touch-ups keep a can of WD-40 200 ml in the coach's bag or the court storeroom.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».