Whether you're a seasoned golfer or new to the game, having your own putting green at home can be a major benefit. With the right setup and care, you can take your game to the next level, reduce your expenses on golf, and practice at your own pace.
But as with any long-term commitment, you should be aware of certain dos and don'ts when it comes to synthetic turf for your putting green. Here are some suggestions 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. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so you should research carefully before deciding. Some things to consider include durability, ball speed, bounce, and how the material performs in various climates. At Southwest Greens of Augusta, we can help you make an informed decision about choosing the right artificial putting green material.
DON'T: GO CHEAP ON INSTALLATION
The installation process is vital when it comes to artificial putting greens. If the base isn't prepared correctly, you could experience issues such as unevenness, puckering, or even sinking. It's crucial to choose an experienced installer who will take the time to get ready the base and ensure that the green is consistently smooth and level. Take a look at our installation process to discover what sets our installation apart from others in the field.
DO: CONSIDER SIZE & SHAPE
The dimensions of your putting green will depend on various factors, including your available space, available budget, and personal desires. However, it's important to consider the overall design and layout of your green. Ideally, you want a green that's big enough to practice a variety of shots but not so big that it takes up your whole outdoor space. It might be worth considering installing synthetic turf throughout your whole backyard to reduce maintenance and give your pets and kids a great outdoor environment. 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 advantages of artificial putting greens is that they need less maintenance than natural grass. But that doesn't mean you can ignore them completely. Regular brushing and cleaning will help keep your green in top condition. You'll need to periodically add infill materials like sand or top dressing to help maintain the proper firmness and ball roll. Check out our cleaning guide to understand how to properly care for to keep your artificial turf looking great. We highly recommend yearly expert maintenance by your turf installer.
DO: CONSIDER LIGHTING
If you want to be able to use your putting green after dark, you might consider adding lighting. LED lights are a popular choice for artificial putting greens because they're energy-efficient, durable, and don't get hot, so they are safe for the synthetic grass. It's best that the lights are expertly set up and positioned to provide best coverage.
DON'T: ASSUME IT’S ONLY FOR GOLF
While the main use of your fake putting surfaces will be for putting practice, that doesn't mean they can't serve other uses as well. Depending on the configuration of your green, it could also be used for activities such as lawn bowling or different sports.