Building a backyard batting cage is a great way to provide your kids with a dedicated space to practice their swings and improve their baseball skills. However, this project requires thorough planning and consideration to ensure it fits well in your yard and complies with local regulations. Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare for building a backyard batting cage.
1. Finding the Ideal Location
The first step is to find the most suitable and level part of your yard. A level surface is crucial as it makes clearing, grading, and leveling easier. Avoid areas that may require costly removal of bushes, cutting down trees, or moving/removing sprinklers.
Shade Considerations
Consider the presence of overhead trees, which can provide natural shade. If your chosen location lacks trees, plan to add a tarp or shade cloth to protect the cage and players from direct sunlight.
2. Checking Local City Regulations
Before starting any construction, check your local city rules and regulations regarding backyard structures. Each city has different requirements, so it's important to ensure your batting cage complies with local laws to avoid fines or mandatory removal.
3. Determining the Size
The size of your batting cage should be based on the number of kids you have and their ages. It's always better to opt for a larger size, allowing your kids to grow into it and providing ample space for practice.
Age and Pitching Distance
If you plan to pitch in the cage, keep in mind that the regulation pitching distance for players aged 14 and up is 60 feet 6 inches. Additionally, you should allow approximately 5 feet behind the back of the pitching mound for the netting. This means a netting length of about 70 feet is a good size if you plan to pitch in the cage. For younger children, a shorter distance may suffice, but planning for future use is always beneficial.
For more information on batting cage dimensions, you can read more here.
4. Choosing the Right Netting
Selecting the appropriate netting is crucial for the durability and functionality of your batting cage. Consider the weather conditions in your area when choosing the netting:
Weather Conditions
- Colder and Harsher Weather: Opt for heavier netting that can withstand rain, snow, and strong winds.
- Warmer Weather: Lighter netting may be sufficient for areas with mild weather conditions.
5. Selecting the Type of Turf
The type of turf you choose will depend on how you plan to use the batting cage:
- Regular Batting Cage Turf: Ideal for just hitting.
- Game Field Turf: Better for taking groundballs or doing fielding drills in the cage.
6. Considering a Chain Link Fence
Adding a chain link fence around your batting cage netting can provide several benefits, but also has its drawbacks:
Pros of Chain Link Fencing
- Security: You can lock up the cage to prevent unauthorized use.
- Animal Prevention: A fence helps keep animals out of the cage area.
- Ball Containment: It prevents balls from leaving the netting area, reducing the risk of lost balls and potential damage to surrounding property.
Cons of Chain Link Fencing
- Aesthetics: Chain link fencing can be an eyesore for neighbors and guests.
- Cost: Adding a fence increases the overall cost of the project.
- Netting Performance: The netting may not have as much give when balls hit it, potentially affecting play and durability.
7. Considering Additional Features
Lighting
Do you want to use the batting cage in the evenings? If so, installing lights might be necessary. Ensure that the location you choose will not have lights shining directly into any neighbor’s windows to avoid conflicts.
Noise
The sound of the bat hitting the ball can be loud. It’s important to talk to your neighbors beforehand to make sure they are okay with the potential noise levels.
8. Professional Installation Services
At ISA, we specialize in tailor-made custom installations. We can handle the entire process for you, from grading and leveling the land to the final installation of the batting cage. Our goal is to create a batting cage exactly to your specifications, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Conclusion
Building a backyard batting cage is an exciting project that can provide endless fun and practice opportunities for your kids. By carefully planning the location, size, netting, and additional features, you can create a functional and enjoyable space that meets all your needs. Don’t forget to check local regulations and consult with your neighbors to ensure a smooth building process. Happy batting!
For more information or to start your custom batting cage installation, contact ISA today. Let us help you create the perfect practice space for your budding baseball stars!
