How to Build a Bocce Ball Court
More in Outdoors
Step 1: Clear the Area
Using a sod cutter, cut away all the sod. Using a pick and a flat shovel also works but it just takes much longer.
Step 2: Level the Area
You don't want the bocce balls gathering in the same corner every game. Using a laser level or large level, check to make sure the area is flat. Rake the dirt to lower areas or away from higher areas.
Step 3: Measure and Mark the Area
Use spray paint or chalk to mark the four corners of the court. For this project, the frame was 34 feet by 6 feet. A backyard bocce court can be any size you'd like, but regulation-size bocce ball courts are about 13 feet by 91 feet.
Step 4: Cut the Wood for the Frame
Using a circular saw or table saw, cut 2x6s to the desired frame size. Because synthetic wood material bends, consider doubling up the sides for a stronger bocce ball court.
Step 5: Secure the Frame
Using the wood screws, join the 2x6s. Then drive in 1' stakes every four to six feet to support synthetic material and to keep the frame straight and sturdy.
Step 6: Lay Down the Base Rock
The base rock needs to be about two to three inches deep. Load in the base rock into the court area and then tamp it down using a compactor.
Step 7: Lay Down the Decomposed Granite
The next layer of the bocce court is decomposed granite. Compact the area. The small rock particles lock into place once compacted, creating a strong surface for walking and bocce balls.
Step 8: Recheck the Level
If any areas are too low, add more decomposed granite to raise the area. If areas are too high, rake away the excess decomposed granite.
Step 9: Apply the Oyster Shell Flour
Local feed supply stores sell oyster-shell flour. Apply a thick coat (about one half of an inch of oyster-shell flour), then rake it until it's smooth. This material is known to increase the speed of bocce balls. Keep an extra bag on hand for maintaining the court.
Was this project helpful?
Advertisement
Find your DIY inspiration or just steal ideas from the best renovations and remodels done by the DIY Network pros.
COMMENT ON THIS PROJECT
Sign in
All fields are required.
Signing in
Please enter your email address and we will send your password
E-mail Address
Your password has been sent and should arrive in your mailbox very soon.
Not a member?
Sign up with DIY Network to share tips with other do-it-yourselfers and comment and ask questions on projects.
It's free and easy.
