Whether you're a pro golfer or new to the game, having your own putting green at home can be a total game-changer. With the right setup and care, you can take your game to the next level, reduce your expenses on golf, and have the freedom to practice anytime you like.
But as with any big purchase, you should be aware of certain dos and don'ts when it comes to synthetic turf for your putting green. Here are some pieces of advice to help you maximize your spending.
DO: CHOOSE THE RIGHT MATERIAL
When it comes to artificial putting greens, there are a variety of materials to choose from, including nylon, polypropylene, and polyethylene. Every advantages and disadvantages, so you should research carefully before deciding. Some things to consider include durability, ball speed, rebound, and how the material performs in various climates. At Southwest Greens of Tucson, we can help you take the guesswork out of choosing the right surface.
DON'T: GO CHEAP ON INSTALLATION
The installation process is essential when it comes to artificial putting greens. If the base isn't properly prepared, you could experience issues like irregularities, wrinkling, or even sinking. It's important to choose an experienced installer who will devote sufficient time to properly prepare the base and ensure that the green is perfectly flat and uniform. Take a look at our installation process to learn what sets our installation apart from the rest of the industry.
DO: CONSIDER SIZE & SHAPE
The size and shape of your putting green will depend on various factors, including your available space, budget, and personal desires. However, it's important to consider the aesthetics and layout of your green. Ideally, you want a green that's large enough to practice a diverse set of shots but not so huge that it takes up your whole outdoor space. It might be worth considering installing fake grass throughout your entire yard to reduce maintenance and give your children and pets a safe play space. Take a look at our pet turf and playground turf to see how you could add these great additions alongside your new putting green.
DON'T: FORGET ABOUT MAINTENANCE
One key the benefits of artificial putting greens is that they need lower maintenance needs than natural grass. But that doesn't mean you can forget about them completely. Regular brushing and cleaning will help keep your green fresh. You'll need to occasionally add sand or top dressing infill to help maintain the proper level of ball roll. Check out our turf cleaning guide to understand what you’ll need to do to keep your artificial turf looking great. We strongly suggest yearly maintenance by a professional by your turf installer.
DO: CONSIDER LIGHTING
If you want to be able to use your putting green after dark, you might want to consider adding lighting. LED lights are a common choice for artificial putting greens because they're eco-friendly, reliable, and don't get hot, so they are safe for the synthetic grass. It's best that the lights are expertly set up and aimed to provide best coverage.
DON'T: ASSUME IT’S ONLY FOR GOLF
While the main use of your artificial putting greens will be for putting practice, that doesn't mean they can't serve different functions as well. Depending on the structure and arrangement of your green, it could also be used for activities such as lawn bowling or different sports.