Baseball is a popular American pastime, and it’s a great sport to share with family and friends. Therefore, if you’re got the space and need a new DIY project, you can level your backyard and install a private baseball field. If you’re concerned about the cash side of the project, you’re looking at a few hundred dollars at the lower end. Below, you will find a handy guide, including costings, to transform your yard into a baseball field.
Field Sizing
Baseball fields are fairly large, measuring 330 feet between the home run fence and the home plate, as well as along the foul lines; there are 400 feet between the central home run fence and the home plate. All in all, you’re looking at a 90-square foot diamond with space behind for fouls.
This is a large area to facilitate, which means you may need to scale it down for your yard. When it comes to sourcing the plates, you find all of the different bases and home plate options you need, and they cost in the region of $11 to $900 depending on the quality and type.
Leveling
Baseball fields need to be level to avoid unnecessary accidents. The exact cost of leveling your yard will depend on the size. On average, you’re looking at around $0.25 per square foot to have a professional take care of the job. You can choose to tackle the task yourself, but you’ll need to source heavy machinery and put the time in, which will be very labor-intensive.
As well as having a level baseball field, you need to make sure it drains properly, as the last thing you want is a marsh in your backyard. The best way to drain your field is to use underground drainpipes, which slope downhill at least ⅛ per foot.
Infield
The infield area is made up of clay or fills dirt, which will call for some material replacement. The first step you need to take is digging up the grass, which will take time and energy. If you choose to fill the area with clay, you’re looking at around $35 per cubic yard. Alternatively, if you choose to use topsoil, you’ll pay around $20 excluding delivery. Clay is the best material for the job as it will keep the weeds at bay. In the centra of the field, you will need an extra 4 cubic yards, which will elevate the pitcher’s mound.
Outfield
You will need a well-maintained grass yard. This calls for grass seeds, which can cost anywhere between $90 and $170 per 1000 square feet – if you take on the task DIY. Alternatively, if you’re calling in the experts, you’ll likely spend around $1.50 per square good, and an additional $60 per hour of labor.
Additional Features
With your field set up and ready to go, there are a few optional extras you can throw in, which will make the baseball field feel more authentic, including:
- Seating. Baseball games can be long, which means you’ll need an area for players and spectators to sit. Therefore, if you’ve got the space, you should invest in aluminum benches.
- Lighting. Your baseball game may take you into darker hours when it’s cooler outside. Therefore, you will need to install lights on wooden posts, which you can easily install yourself.
- Fencing. Stray balls are a common occurrence during baseball games, and they could damage property. Installing a fence to prevent smashing windows and losing balls.
To Sum
America loves baseball, and if your backyard is a decent size, you can install a private baseball field to enjoy with family and friends. You can use the information above to help you work out an estimated budget.
