Protect your neighbors from batted baseballs by creating a simple PVC pipe batting cage. This easily constructed, secure structure will keep balls within easy reach. Budding athletic hopefuls can practice without the fear of breaking windows or losing equipment. Durable PVC pipe provides an affordable material to create the basic structure of the cage and is readily available at most home improvement stores. Batting cage netting provides the secure coverage required to keep balls from going astray. Easy construction makes assembly, breakdown and storage simple and convenient.
Instructions
1. Attach two 7-foot sections together with a T connector in the middle. Repeat to create four 14-foot sections of pipe with T connectors in the center.
2. Attach eight 5-foot sections together with a T connector in between each section. Repeat to create four identical 40-foot long segments.
3. Create two large rectangles from the 14 foot and 40 foot sections. Connect the corners with three-way corner connectors.
4. Place a 6-foot section of pipe upright in each upward facing connector opening, including those on the corners.
5. Place a four-way connector on top of each 6-foot section. Make sure you use corner-shaped connectors on the corners that follow the contour of the rectangle beneath.
6. Create another rectangle by fitting pipe pieces between the connectors.
7. Place another 6-foot section of pipe upright in each upward-facing connector opening. Attach the other rectangle created in Step 3 to the top of the assembly.
8. Secure the net sections loosely in place with zip ties every few inches. This will make the project easier to take apart for storage. Leave one of the five-foot segments uncovered on one side (or both sides) to provide an entry.
Tips Warnings
Let the net hang loosely on the structure by using more net than you need to cover a given area. The excess will improve the lifespan of the net by reducing tension on the net. A black nylon net is best, as it will not discolor in sunlight. Nylon is also very durable, and will last through several years of heavy use. For a larger cage, extend the length to 70 feet instead of 40. The cage will retain the 14 foot width and 12 foot height unless other modifications are made. Children can practice in a smaller cage. Customize the dimensions to suit your personal needs.
Construction will go much faster if there are two to five people actively working on the project at a time. However, the project can be accomplished by one individual.
Be sure to measure the available space before beginning this project, as it will take up a very large area. If the pieces of pipe do not fit together tightly, it may be necessary to glue the sections together. Do this by swabbing glue inside the fitting and pushing the pipe into place.
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