Divider curtains/netting can also be used outdoors, but we recommend that they not be hung on fence posts, so appropriate hanging structures must be provided.

Cutting Divider Net Cable

With some net post winding devices, it is necessary to cut one (1) end or cut the loop off of the cable to properly install the net and insert the cable into the winding mechanism. Using the proper tools makes this task easier.

Cable Cutters, designed specifically for this job, can be purchased at any local hardware store and make this job easy. Pliers or wire cutters or hacksaws mess up the cable ends.

Another way to cleanly cut cable is with a cold chisel and hammer. Lay the cable on a piece of steel or concrete and position the chisel where the cut is needed. Strike one clean blow with hammer on the chisel to cut through the cable.

Vinyl coating – do not strip vinyl coating off the cable as the coating keeps the cable snug when inserted into the hole in the winder, as well as keeping the cable wires from unwinding.

Indoor Tennis Clubs – Measuring Procedures

1. Always start with a written layout of the facility.
2. All dimensions must be on the layout.
3. Take measurements and view every dimension from courtside, looking at backdrop/ walls.
4. All walkways behind the curtains must have a specified width.
5. Start taking dimensions from one end wall. This is usually the clubhouse end but it is not always.
6. The position of divider nets between courts must be determined and marked on the layout.
7. Cable system – older cable must be tightened before any height measurements are taken.
8. Cable height for backdrops must be measured. Cable height for divider nets must be measured. Frequently, these are different because of construction details.
9. All measurements of height must take into account the fasteners to be used. Example: Cissel snaps will add 1-3/4” and will affect both backdrops and divider curtains.
10. Important: All divider nets have a natural droop of one to two inches that occurs between fasteners as they hang. This is normal and will allow the net to touch the floor and control balls.
11. Important *** Measuring the required length for divider curtains needs to take into account the following:
    a) All divider curtains have a natural curving undulation as they hang and will require adding 4 ft. to the typical across-court dimension of 120 ft. b) All divider curtains should be over lapped by 2 ft. at center court to allow for a convenient passage between courts.
    c) Divider curtains must be supported by vertical overhead cables at three or four points to keep them from sagging over time.
12. Each backdrop should be overlapped along the length by 2 ft., except at the end, which should be 1 ft. extra to wrap around.
13. Backdrops – each inside court usually is fitted with three curtains that are about 20 ft. wide. Two pieces cover 10 ft. on each side of the left and right divider curtains, and the third piece covers the middle part of the court. Each overlaps the adjacent piece.
14. The point where the divider curtain will meet the backdrop can be designed in a number of ways. It can meet at 90 degrees and have an adjacent flap doorway. It can meet at a so-called California corner that provides a corner angle in two adjacent courts. Door flaps to allow for passage is easily designed into this configuration. However, it is critical to specify every distance in this section. California corners are usually set at 45 degrees but exact dimensions are required to insure the proper joining of backdrop and divider curtain.
15. Pads – there are two basic types, glue-on and lace-on. Glue-on pads are vinyl-covered foam with an open back. Lace-on pads are fully vinyl-enclosed and secured by grommets on top and sides. Every hard surface located behind the backdrop curtain that could cause injury by bodily collision should be protected by a pad. Each pad must be identified on the layout by the type of pad that is appropriate. In order to design pads for use on poles/posts, the circumference of that pole or post must be measured. On all pads, be sure the style you select can be properly installed.
16. All emergency exit doors must be identified and provision made to allow unfettered access to these doors.