In this Leadership Viewpoint, Kevan Carpenter, the CEO of Commercial Floor Resources, explores what pickleball facility operators need to know about flooring, from site inspections to long-term maintenance.
Carpenter explains that since flooring is often the first thing players notice, getting it right from the start is essential to a facility’s long-term success. Older or repurposed concrete slabs can carry unknown issues, so thorough site inspections and floor preparation are critical before installation begins. Skipping this step, or choosing a contractor based on the lowest bid, can lead to costlier problems down the road.
Carpenter also touches on playability, noting that court surface and cushioning affect speed of play and player comfort — considerations that should align with the skill level and needs of the clubs’ target players. He encourages operators to look for a flooring partner who stays involved through installation and ongoing service, rather than one who disappears once the job is done.
Overall, Carpenter emphasizes patience and trust in the process, encouraging operators to stay focused on their members while building out their facilities for the long term.
Visit commercial-floors.net to learn more.
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Jordan Meek is a staff writer for Pickleball Innovators, where she covers the rapidly evolving business of pickleball — from facility growth and technology to player experience and industry strategy. A graduate of Denison University with a degree in Journalism, she joined Peake Media in 2025 and brings a passion for storytelling and curiosity to every piece. Jordan is driven to spotlight the leaders shaping the sport and uncover insights that help operators thrive in the fastest-growing game in America. Reach her at jordan@peakemedia.com.
