Why Backstop Netting Is Better Than Chain Link?

There’s nothing quite like watching a game of baseball in person. The crack of the bat, the high-fives from teammates and cheering fans are all part of what makes a game so fun.

However, if the right precautions are not taken, spectator safety can be compromised. Fortunately, sports netting systems can prevent this from happening.

Increasing the Height of the Netting

When outfitting a ballpark, the goal is to provide spectators with an unobstructed view of the field. A backstop fence would block their views, whereas netting does not. In addition, a backstop netting system is weatherproof and will not rust – while a chain link fence will deteriorate over time.

A backstop netting system can also be designed to include a durable wall structure with wood-less padding that is maintenance friendly. A poured concrete wall is more expensive than a chain link fence but offers the structural integrity necessary for the safety of players, coaches and spectators.

A netting system that uses in-line poles is the least costly but can create visual obstructions for spectators and may not be as visually appealing as a tie-back system using a backstop wall with integrated pads. These systems use large steel poles that are engineered based on the height and netting span of your ballpark and can be configured in a variety of ways including along foul lines, behind dugouts or around seating areas.

Increased Safety

The right netting system is vital in helping athletes reach their goals. With a clear boundary, athletes can focus on their game and work to improve. Without a backstop, they’d be exposed to balls that could hurt them or others on the field and outside of it.

High-quality netting systems use treated knotted nylon or Dyneema netting that resists sagging, stretching and tearing over time. They are also weatherproofed, meaning they can withstand high winds and inclement weather. This helps them last longer, saving sports facilities money in the long run.

Another safety feature of netting is that it can separate fans from batted balls and bats that may enter the bleachers. This prevents spectators from getting injured and keeps them safe as they enjoy the games and atmosphere at your stadium.

Increased Ball Containment

In addition to keeping spectators safe, backstop netting also helps prevent stray balls from leaving the stadium area and damaging nearby vehicles or property. Fences are less effective in preventing this type of damage, and they can be dangerous for fans who crowd near the fences.

Increasing the height of the netting increases ball containment, which is especially important for sports like baseball and softball. This feature minimizes the likelihood of stray balls injuring spectators or damaging adjacent property and ensures that the game can continue without interruption.

The netting is typically integrated with a sturdy wall structure, such as a concrete or block wall. A solid wall is essential, as the netting cannot be installed directly on the field surface. This could create tears and holes in the netting due to contact with cleats or the ground. Additionally, a block wall lacking filled cores or structural support will not be able to adequately support the pressure applied by the netting above.

Increased Costs

When considering a new backstop netting system, it is important to think about how the height will affect spectator visibility. While the days of peering through chain link fences are long gone, a netted backstop will provide superior protection for fans while allowing them to enjoy an unobstructed view of the game.

The cost of a netting system will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. A key factor is the height of the net, which will determine how large the support structure needs to be and can increase costs. It is important to work with a supplier who understands the intricacies of netting design and installation, including structural specifications, pole mounting methods, and logistical timelines.

Larger systems typically include extending barrier netting over dugouts and down foul lines to offer enhanced safety protection. These features can increase cost by up to 25%. If possible, it is best to implement a larger system in phases so that cost increases can be deferred into a second year of improvements.