If you’ve played tennis on a softer, green-coloured surface that feels cooler and easier on the joints, there’s a good chance you’ve experienced a Har-Tru tennis court. These courts are known for their distinctive surface, slower ball bounce, and player-friendly benefits. But what exactly is Har-Tru, and why is it becoming a go-to choice for clubs, communities, and private residences?

This article breaks down everything you need to know about Har-Tru courts, from what they’re made of to how they play and why companies like Crowall in Ontario are trusted to install and maintain them with unmatched precision.

Related Article: What Materials Are Best For Outdoor Sports Court?

What Is a Har-Tru Tennis Court?

Har-Tru is a brand name for a specific type of green clay court. It’s made from crushed metabasalt, a natural igneous rock found primarily in Virginia, USA. When finely crushed, this rock creates a durable, moisture-retaining surface that mimics the playing experience of traditional red clay courts, with some added benefits.

Har-Tru courts are often called “green clay” courts because of their colour and texture. They offer a consistent playing surface with slower ball speed, giving players more time to react and rally.

Har-Tru vs. Hard Courts vs. Clay Courts

Not all tennis courts are the same. Here’s how Har-Tru compares to other popular surfaces:

Har-Tru (Green Clay)

• Material: Crushed metabasalt
• Bounce Speed: Medium-slow
• Surface Temperature: Cooler
• Impact on Joints: Low
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Best For: Longer rallies, joint relief

Hard Court

• Material: Asphalt or concrete with acrylic coating
• Bounce Speed: Fast
• Surface Temperature: Hot in direct sunlight
• Impact on Joints: High
• Maintenance: Low
• Best For: Fast-paced play, low upkeep

Red Clay Court

• Material: Crushed brick or shale
• Bounce Speed: Slow
• Surface Temperature: Cooler
• Impact on Joints: Low
• Maintenance: High
• Best For: Slide control, tournament preparation

Related Article: Clay Tennis Courts vs. Other Court Types: Which Is Best For You?

Why Har-Tru Courts Are Gaining Popularity

More players, clubs, and homeowners are choosing Har-Tru over traditional hard courts and for good reason. These green clay surfaces offer a better playing experience, improved safety, and a classic look that stands out. Here’s why Har-Tru courts are quickly becoming a preferred option across Ontario.

1. Gentler on the Body

Har-Tru courts are more forgiving on knees, hips, and backs compared to hard courts. The natural cushioning from the crushed stone helps reduce impact, making it an ideal choice for older players, long-term athletes, and anyone recovering from injury.

2. Improved Player Endurance

Because of the slower pace and softer surface, players tend to engage in longer rallies with less physical strain. This creates a more strategic, endurance-focused game.

3. Cooler Playing Surface

Unlike hard courts that absorb and radiate heat, Har-Tru courts remain cooler in direct sunlight. This improves comfort during warm months and creates a better playing experience for outdoor matches.

4. Better for Sliding

The loose top layer allows players to slide into shots, which reduces the abrupt stops that often cause injury on hard surfaces. This also mimics the feel of professional clay courts used in Europe and South America.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

The green colour of Har-Tru blends well with natural landscapes, making it a visually appealing choice for country clubs, communities, and private backyards.

Related Article: Understanding the Construction Process for Backyard Sports Court

How Har-Tru Courts Are Constructed

A Har-Tru court isn’t just about spreading green material over dirt. It requires proper grading, layering, and drainage to ensure longevity and consistent play.

Key Steps in the Process:

1. Site Preparation

Before installation, the site is levelled and assessed for proper drainage. Crowall uses laser-guided grading technology to achieve a perfectly flat and balanced foundation.

2. Base Layer Installation

A stable sub-base (often made of stone or compacted aggregate) is laid to support the surface and promote water drainage.

3. Har-Tru Layer Application

The crushed metabasalt (Har-Tru) material is spread in thin layers and rolled with specialized equipment to ensure even compaction.

4. Line Taping

Rather than paint, Har-Tru courts use white line tape that sits on top of the surface and is anchored in place.

5. Watering System

To maintain the court’s playability and consistency, a built-in irrigation or underground watering system may be installed.

Crowall’s team ensures that each stage is done with precision, something that’s especially important for a court surface that needs to maintain consistent moisture and firmness.

Related Article: The Process of Laser-Guided Grading: What to Expect and How It Benefits Your Sports Court

Maintenance Requirements

While Har-Tru courts need more upkeep than hard courts, they’re easier to maintain than traditional red clay. Regular maintenance ensures consistent bounce, surface longevity, and safety.

Basic upkeep includes:

• Daily brushing and rolling to level the surface and prevent buildup
• Watering to maintain the right moisture content (automated systems help here)
• Occasional top-dressing with new Har-Tru material
• Line sweeping to keep visibility clear

Crowall also offers resurfacing services to restore worn-out or unbalanced courts. Their laser-grading system ensures that even older Har-Tru courts can be brought back to top performance.

Ideal Settings for Har-Tru Courts

Har-Tru courts are ideal for a wide range of settings:

• Private homes looking for premium backyard installations
• Clubs and tennis academies wanting to offer a variety of court experiences
• Community centres and schools looking for joint-friendly courts
• Senior recreation facilities focused on player safety and endurance

Why Choose Crowall for Har-Tru Courts in Ontario?

Installing a Har-Tru court is a specialty job. It’s not just about putting down material, it’s about getting the base, grading, drainage, and surface application right the first time.

What sets Crowall apart:

• Over 20 years of experience in tennis court construction and resurfacing
• Laser-guided grading technology for maximum accuracy
• Custom design and planning for residential and public-use courts
• Full-service offerings from design to construction and maintenance
• Dedicated attention to playability, aesthetics, and durability

We don’t just build sports courts, we build environments that players want to return to, season after season.

Is Har-Tru Right for You?

If you’re deciding on the right surface for your next tennis court project, here are a few questions to consider:

• Do you want a softer surface that’s easier on the joints?
• Are you looking for a cooler court in hot weather?
• Will your court be used by players of different ages and skill levels?
• Do you want a natural-looking court that complements your landscape?
• Are you willing to perform or outsource regular maintenance?

If you answered yes to most of these, a Har-Tru court could be the perfect fit, and Crowall is the team to build it.

Green Clay Courts Built for Performance and Comfort

Har-Tru tennis courts offer a unique combination of playability, comfort, and aesthetic appeal. They’re not just for elite clubs, they’re becoming a top choice for anyone who values performance and long-term durability.

With proper construction, grading, and care, a Har-Tru court can provide decades of reliable use.

If you’re thinking about installing or resurfacing a Har-Tru tennis court in Ontario, Crowall offers the skill, technology, and customer service to bring your vision to life.

Explore your options now! Contact us today for a free consultation and quote. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading an existing surface, they’ll help you create a court built for better tennis.