4. Evenness
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The court surface should be free from any imperfection that causes an inconsistent ball bounce, allows the collection of water, or significantly increases the risk of injury to players. The standard achievable is dependent on the materials and equipment used to construct the court, and the quality of workmanship. Undulations are measured relative to a rigid straight edge placed on the surface.
Apparatus
Test apparatus consists of:
3 m straight edge, made from box-section aluminium or equivalent.
Wedge approximately 25 mm wide and 200 mm long, with marked height increments of 1 mm.
Two supports for the straight edge, of equal height.
Calibration of apparatus
Devices used for evenness measurements should be calibrated annually. Surveying-quality straight edges in serviceable condition are deemed appropriate. Check for any damage to the straight edge and wedge prior to testing.
Test procedure
1. Lay the straight edge on the surface.
2. Drag the straight edge across the surface parallel to the net, looking for deviations that warrant measurement. Perform sufficient passes to inspect the Total Playing Area (TPA) of the court (see figure 4).
3. For hollows, measure the maximum deviation from the underside of the straight edge using the graduated wedge (see figure 5). Ensure that the straight edge is resting on the court surface either side of the hollow.
4. For isolated bumps or ridges, suspend the straight edge above the peak of the hump using supports at either side (see figure 5). Measure the minimum deviation from the underside of the straight edge using the wedge and subtract this value from the height of the supports. This gives the height of the bump.
5. Repeat steps (1) to (4) moving the straight edge at right angles to the net.
Note: Beware of damaging the surface and/or straight edge when dragging the apparatus over the court.