If you want to build a bocce ball court in your backyard, you must consider several factors. Like any construction project, cost is an important consideration. So let’s take a look at the cost of installing a court to help manage your expectations, as well as what drives this cost.
The cost of a bocce ball court ranges from $5 to $20 per square foot, depending on the material used. It can easily go up to around $30 per square foot or more if you hire a professional crew. However, like any construction project prices greatly vary based on the region you are in, material availability, court size, and amount of prep work or grading required.
This article will explore the factors that contribute to the overall cost of bocce ball court installation. We will also talk about the other things you may overlook when building a court from scratch.
How Much Does It Cost to Build a Bocce Ball Court?
The total cost of installing a bocce ball court can vary depending on several factors. We recommend asking local contractors or professional court builders for an exact quote tailored to your needs.
But to give you a basic idea, the price of a bocce ball court starts from $5 to $20 per square foot. It can be cheaper or more expensive depending on the contractor, court size, location, and surface materials.
A backyard bocce ball court that is 60 feet long and 12 feet wide has a minimum cost of $3,600. Meanwhile, a regulation-sized court (91 feet by 13 feet) with high-end materials can set you back as much as $23,660.
What Are the Factors That Affect the Cost of a Bocce Ball Court?
Here are the factors that can influence the total price of bocce ball court installation.
Bocce Ball Court Size
The size of the bocce ball court directly affects the overall construction cost. A larger court means you need more materials for the border, base, and surface.
The standard dimensions for a backyard bocce court is around 60 feet by 12 feet. On the other hand, a regulation bocce ball court is 91 feet long by 13 feet wide.
However, feel free to set the court size based on the available space in your backyard. You can make your own bocce ball court as small or as large as you want, considering you have the budget.
Bocce Ball Frame Material Options
The bocce ball frame is the boundary or perimeter of the court. It defines the playing area where you can toss the bocce balls.
The court frame typically uses durable materials that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Below are some common materials for the bocce court frame and their respective prices.
Wood
A wooden frame is an inexpensive option to consider if you are on a budget. A board or plank costs anywhere from $10 to $50. Quality wood species, like natural teak, can set you back at least $100.
Brick
Brick is on the pricier side, with an average cost of $3 to $8 per square foot. You will also need mortar or cement to lay the brick material for the court frame. You can find these items for around $5 to $40.
Stone
Stone is another great option for your bocce ball court frame. It comes in different designs and patterns.
It has an average price of $10 to $30 per foot, depending on the type of landscaping rocks used. It is among the most expensive construction materials. However, it may be worth it for its aesthetic quality and durability.
Concrete
Concrete is another expensive material for your bocce ball border. Depending on thickness and finish, it costs around $5 to $30 per square foot. However, it is usually complicated to install on your own. So labor costs may bump up the overall price of a concrete frame.
Bocce Court Drainage Materials
Bocce courts can easily becoming a giant puddle or miniature swimming pool if not drained properly. This typically means at least a few inches of drain rock with drainage pipe under.
Bocce Ball Court Surface Materials
After building the bocce ball frame, you must fill the playing area with a base layer and bocce surface material. The court material can affect the control, bounce, and speed of the bocce balls.
Here are the materials you can choose from.
Granite
Decomposed granite is a popular choice for the base of a bocce ball court. It retails for around $1 to $4 per square foot, which is pretty cheap. However, you must also consider the cost of a compactor when using decomposed granite as a base layer.
After installing the base layer, you can put gravel-like material for the playing surface. Expect to pay $20 to $40 per yard. Choose smaller rock fragments to ensure optimal ball play.
Sand
Sand is an inexpensive natural surface material for your bocce ball court. It costs from $10 to $30 per cubic yard, depending on its quality and availability in your area.
However, wind can easily blow the sand away, and rain can wash off the sand. You may need to replace the material every year or so to ensure a level court.
Natural Grass
Grass is another cheap surface material because it may already grow in your backyard naturally. All you need to do is take care of it.
If you have a bare or patchy yard, you can buy a packet of grass seeds. Depending on the grass type, you can get it for $5 to $70.
Note that natural grass bocce courts are difficult to maintain. Regularly water, fertilize, and mow it for an even playing surface.
Artificial Turf
An artificial turf court is an excellent choice for those who want a low-maintenance surface material. However, it can set you back between $5 and $20 per square foot. Artificial turf may also require adhesive, which costs more money.
Oyster Shell
Oyster shells or crushed clamshells are popular surfacing materials for bocce ball courts. They provide ample drainage and fast ball movement.
Prepare to shell out between $40 and $50 per square yard. It is not the most expensive court surface material. However, it can be costly to maintain in the long run. That is because oyster shells are easily blown away or misplaced by the wind and rain.
What Are the Extra Costs of Building a Bocce Ball Court?
Besides the factors mentioned above, you must also consider other costs associated with a bocce ball court. Below are some expenses that affect the overall construction price.
Excavation
Before setting up the court frame and materials, you must have a level surface first. Depending on your existing terrain, you may need to dig your backyard or remove plants.
If you want to excavate everything yourself, the majority of the cost is your time. But you must also consider the price of tools, such as shovels and stakes. Note that digging is a backbreaking task, so ensure you are physically fit to do the job on your own.
On the other hand, hiring a contractor can set you back at least $20 to $50 per square foot. It is expensive yet worth considering because these professionals will do all the hard work for you.
Equipment
Building a bocce ball court from scratch requires machinery and special tools. These include a shovel, string, compactor, markers or stakes, and leveling tools. Make sure to add the cost of these pieces of equipment to the total construction cost.
The project may also need the use of a tractor or a bulldozer. There is no need to buy these powerful vehicles. You can simply rent them at a starting price of $300 per day.
Labor
This extra cost only applies if you hire a contractor or a professional court builder. You must pay them for the expertise and knowledge they bring to the project.
The cost of labor varies depending on the state you live in and the project requirements. On average, a contractor may charge you $50 to $150 per hour. However, some professionals do not have hourly rates. Instead, they require you to pay 10% to 30% of the total construction costs.
Optional Features
You may want to add extra features to your bocce ball court. These include bocce ball court lighting, fencing, bocce scoreboards, seating areas, and even landscaping. They can improve the functionality and value of your court.
The price of these optional features varies depending on the materials, installation requirements, and your personal preferences.
How Much Is a Bocce Ball Set?
After building a bocce ball court, you can now play the game. If you do not already own a bocce ball set, consider buying one.
The price of a bocce ball set depends on its quality, size, material, and brand. In general, you can purchase a set for $15 to $200.
What Are Bocce Balls Made From?
Bocce balls are available in different materials. Traditionally, they are made with wood or clay. However, modern bocce balls use a blend of synthetic materials. These include plastic and composite resin. Metal balls, specifically stainless steel ones, are also popular for their durability.
Each ball material has its pros and cons. Consider these before making a purchasing decision.
Conclusion
You can build a bocce ball court in your own backyard to enjoy the game whenever you want. However, installing a court does not come cheap.
The cost of a bocce ball court varies based on court size, frame material, surfacing needs, and other factors. On average, constructing a bocce court from scratch costs $5 to $20 per square foot. The price can still change depending on the project scope and requirements.
Do you need more help in calculating the cost of bocce ball courts? You can reach out to us via our contact page.