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Coach Carlson, I can't speak intelligently about the foundation and adding walls, ceiling deck, etc. One problem you may run into is how to keep the kids cool and the heat down in this space. I would be willing to speak with you about our fans which we put into gyms on a weekly basis. My phone number is 859-977-1353 if you want to discuss. Good luck with your project. If you want to send me your e-mail address i can send over pictures of our fans in gyms. Barrett Clayton

Take a look at Gym In a Box. Depending on your local, you might get away with a metal building or a simple metal roof.

Anything is possible in solving this this problem. The height of the roof is critical especially in a gymnasium environment, so if it is to raise the roof so to speak, there may need to be on support columns and exterior structure to hold up an elevated roof system. If the roof is at the same height for example, a two story roof, and height isn't as critical, possibly the exterior walls can support your new roof. Too many variables to determine without seeing it and analyzing existing walls and structure. As of the inside floor, after pouring the new slab on grade within the four walls, it can be set up to be recessed enough for a wood floor on sleeper system or for a more economical approach use of a monolithic rubber system is the choice. Many other issues come to mind though, such a windows that look into the courtyard space now, and how they will be treated or protected, and if there is a requirement for exterior day lighting of those rooms adjacent to the courtyard. What about interior finishing of the new gym space, will the existing walls need to be clad in a protective type material for the gym activities and protection for the users?

Phil - A critical question is wrt the existing court base - asphalt or concrete? A sprung type structure could be built over the existing BB court(s). If your school district has an architect on retainer, that would be stop one. If not, I would recommend contacting a reputable GC in your area, and also contacting the Robbins dealer as well, in order to explore the options. Sincerely, Dean A. Smith 813.830.1602

Converting an outside courtyard into a full blown gymnasium is a bit more involved than closing in the deck or patio on a house. You should get in touch with a licensed structural/architectural designer who can help you navigate (pun intended) through the myriad of factors including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roof drainage and snow loading, site drainage, fastening to the existing building(s). Then there are all of the details associated with preparing plans for bidding and building the addition. If you don't execute the planning phase of the project properly there is a old saying, "Act in haste, repent in leisure."

Hire a reputable architect in your area. Architects are the only professionals that will consider all of your concerns; codes, environmental conditions, (drainable floor tile used in Florida won't drain to well in Minnesota in January!), structural issues, exiting and other safety issues, construction scheduling and costs to name a few. You will get what you pay for. Do you look for the cheapest doctor, attorney or accountant when seeking that type of advice?

Philip, I believe that we can supply what you are looking for. We just recently finished a project covering an area that has a full size basketball court, a volleyball court, as well as a rock climbing wall and a performance stage. http://www.ufsinc.com/" target="_blank">www.ufsinc.com, 800-634-8368

Hello Philip. Good question. Yes, there are excellent products available for your basketball court if you are looking to build it outdoors, as well as handsome, pre-fabricated enclosures. Here are 360 Architecture, we pride ourselves on our unique sports design solutions and would be happy to talk more about your project. Best regards, James

Regarding Bleachers: Most gym expansions involved reusing the existing bleachers to save capital. If you are expanding your gymnasium, be sure to consider gross seating capacity and how the new facility will be utilized in respect to the bleachers and the spectators. Moving existing bleachers is important to work into the logistics of the build.

Coach Carlson, To turn your outside court spaces into interior gym spaces would require the following: 1. Long-span steel joists will be the most economical roof structure. These can clear span over gym spaces. 25 feet above the floor is a standard clear height. 2. The most economical roofing material is EPDM roof with stone ballast. 3. The roof structure will need bearing wall support. Existing walls may have been designed to support another roof but if not there are alternate ways of providing bearing support for the roof structure. Concrete block is the wall material of choice because of it's durability. 4. Flooring: You would want to take up what is on the ground now and put in a 4" thick concrete floor. Then there are several options for flooring, vinyl composition tile being the lowest cost, urethane, rubber, composites, and wood flooring. 5. We would want to connect the new gym space with existing hallways or locker rooms. The gym would need to have code required fire exits also. 6. Natural light can be added through translucent fiberglass panels at new walls or roof systems. 7. Lighting: Go with a fluorescent 6-lamp high-output fixture with a cage. 8. By code, the space will need to be heated , and ventilated using mechancial equipment. The lowest cost equipment usually will be roof mounted. Hope this helps! I would be happy to meet with you to look at the gym site and discuss more of the details. Kevin

If you and or the community don't need the outside space for outdoor sports then you could enclose the entire space through standard construction, or use a bubble or pre-fab type building. The surface I assume is asphalt, and our company has done some jobs on asphalt. Asphalt needs some special preperation but you can put a vinyl or linoleum surface on top of ashpalt, using a moisture barrier. The space must be climate controlled.

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