Whether you're a skilled golfer or just starting out, 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 enjoy the convenience of practicing whenever you want.
But as with any long-term commitment, you should be aware of certain pros and cons when it comes to fake grass for your golf course. Below are some tips to help you get the most out of your investment.
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 benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to do your homework before deciding. Some things to consider include longevity, ball speed, rebound, and how the material reacts to different weather conditions. At Southwest Greens of Illinois, we can help you take the guesswork out of choosing the right surface.
DON'T: GO CHEAP ON INSTALLATION
The installation process is vital when it comes to artificial putting greens. If the base is not properly prepared, you could experience problems like irregularities, wrinkling, or even sinking. It's vital to choose an experienced installer who will spend the necessary time to set up the base and ensure that the green is consistently smooth and level. Check out our installation process to discover what sets our installation apart from others in the field.
DO: CONSIDER SIZE & SHAPE
The dimensions and shape of your putting green will depend on various factors, including your space constraints, budget, and personal preferences. 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 range of shots but not so large that it takes up your entire backyard. It might be worth considering installing fake grass throughout your entire yard to reduce maintenance and give your family and pets a nice space to play. Take a look at our pet turf and playground turf to see how you could add these fantastic features alongside your new putting green.
DON'T: FORGET ABOUT MAINTENANCE
One key the pros of artificial putting greens is that they need less maintenance than natural grass. But that doesn't mean you can ignore them completely. Frequent brushing and cleaning will help keep your green looking and playing like new. You'll need to periodically add sand or top dressing infill to help maintain the proper level of ball roll. Check out our turf cleaning guide to understand how to maintain to keep your artificial turf looking great. We strongly suggest yearly professional maintenance by your turf installer.
DO: CONSIDER LIGHTING
If you desire to be able to use your putting green after dark, you might consider installing lighting. LED lights are a popular choice for artificial putting greens because they're cost-effective, durable, and don't get hot, so they won't melt the turf. It's highly recommended that the lights are installed by a pro and positioned to provide optimal coverage.
DON'T: ASSUME IT’S ONLY FOR GOLF
While the main use of your synthetic putting turf will be for putting practice, that doesn't mean they can't serve other purposes as well. Depending on the structure and arrangement of your green, it could also be used for activities such as bocce ball or other games.