How To Measure A Custom Windscreen

Learn how to properly measure a custom windscreen for your ball field, tennis court, or any fenced area with this step-by-step guide.

1. Draw A Diagram

Draw a map of the fence line of your court or field.
Notate each measurement next to the corresponding section of fence.
Measure the height and width of each fence section down to the nearest inch. Do not guess or round off dimensions.
A precise measurement is critical to properly installing your windscreen.
Be sure to measure every piece of the fence as no two fences are identical.
Label each fence segment on your diagram to make it easier to match the proper windscreen segment during installation.
This diagram will be your guide as you assemble your windscreen segments.

Measure the width from inside one tension bar to the inside of the next tension bar. The windscreen is installed between the tension bars. Measurements should not include the width of the tension bars or the terminal posts (see diagram below).
If one person is measuring, attach an end of the measuring tape to the outside of a tension bar with a hook or clamp. Pull the tape straight across to the outside of the next tension bar. Note the length and subtract 3” (the total width of the tension bars). Record this measurement on your diagram.
If two people are measuring, measure the width from the inside of the tension bar to the inside of the next tension bar. Record this measurement on your diagram.

Measure the height from the bottom of the top rail to the top of the bottom rail. Record this measurement on your diagram.
The desired windscreen height is generally shorter than the height of the fence. For example, a traditional 10' high fence will usually have a 9’ high windscreen. The shorter height leaves space at the top and/or bottom of the fence to allow wind flow through the screen.

As with the other fence segments, the width of a gate is measured from inside of one tension bar to the inside of the next tension bar.
Measure the gate height from the bottom of the top rail to the top of the bottom rail.
Measure the transom width (area above the gate) from inside of one tension bar to the inside of the next tension bar.
Measure the transom height from the bottom of the top rail to the top of the rail that is over the gate opening.

Measure each section of fence where you would like a windscreen.
Pick an easy-to-recognize starting point, like a gate or corner post, and measure clockwise.
Go around the entire perimeter, recording each measurement on your court or field diagram as you measure.
Mark down the length and height measurements to the nearest inch.
Measure every fence section – don’t assume the lengths are the same!
For a professional look, it’s better for a windscreen to be slightly too short than too long. If a segment is too long, the coverage most likely will not be smooth and the screen may sag.
It is recommended to leave 4 inches of space between the bottom of the windscreen and a ball field to avoid windscreen damage from field maintenance work.
For easier installation and storage, the recommended length of a windscreen section is 75’, however sections can be made up to 100’ long.