Plans for Building a Batting Cage

A batting cage provides a safe place to practice pitching and batting skills, but going to a community ball park or sports complex can mean long lines and high prices. It is fairly easy to build your own batting cage at home, with some planning. First of all, decide whether to build the batting cage from scratch, or purchase a kit. The kit costs more and may require time for shipping. A local hardware store or sports shop will have everything you need to build a batting cage from scratch.

• 1

  Choose a spot for the batting cage, either inside or outdoors. A garage is big enough to provide a safe, protected space for batting practice, while an outdoor batting cage allows the batter to practice in wind and sun --- conditions more like an actual game.

• 2

  Level the area. Make sure that the chosen spot is as flat as possible.

• 3

  Measure the area. Batting cages come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Choose the size and shape that best fits your space.

• 4

  Choose the netting type. It is important to choose the net before choosing the support materials. Some nets are designed to be hung, while others drape over supports. Some nets are knit with large holes, while others are twine that is knotted into shape. This means that some nets are heavier than others and require stronger support.

• 5

  Choose your support material. Depending on the weight of your net, the batting cage can be supported by wood, metal or even PVC. A PVC support system can easily be disassembled for storage while wood or metal are easier to cement for a permanent structure.