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 boost your skills, cut costs on green fees, 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 artificial putting greens. Below are some tips to help you maximize 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 advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to do your research before deciding. Some things to consider include durability, pace, rebound, and how the material performs in various climates. At Southwest Greens of Jacksonville, we can help you take the guesswork out of 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 is not prepared correctly, you could experience problems such as irregularities, wrinkling, or even settling. It's crucial to choose an experienced installer who will spend the necessary time to prepare the base and ensure that the green is level and smooth. Take a look at our installation process to learn what sets our installation apart from other manufacturers.

DO: CONSIDER SIZE & SHAPE

The dimensions and shape of your putting green will depend on various factors, including your space constraints, available budget, and personal likes. However, it's important to consider the general design and layout of your green. Ideally, you want a green that's spacious enough to practice a variety of shots but not so huge that it takes up your whole outdoor space. It might be worth considering installing synthetic turf throughout your entire yard to reduce maintenance and give your pets and kids a nice space to play. Take a look at our pet turf and playground turf to see how you could add these awesome options alongside your new putting green.

DON'T: FORGET ABOUT MAINTENANCE

One of the benefits of artificial putting greens is that they need less maintenance than natural grass. But that doesn't mean you can forget about them completely. Frequent brushing and cleaning will help keep your green fresh. You'll need to periodically add sand or top dressing infill to help maintain the proper firmness and ball roll. Check out our guide to cleaning to understand what you’ll need to do to keep your artificial turf looking great. We highly recommend yearly expert maintenance by your turf installer.

DO: CONSIDER LIGHTING

If you need to be able to use your putting green after dark, you might want to consider installing lighting. LED lights are a popular choice for artificial putting greens because they're eco-friendly, long-lasting, and don't get hot, so they won't melt the turf. It's best that the lights are expertly set up and positioned to provide optimal coverage.

DON'T: ASSUME IT’S ONLY FOR GOLF

While the main use of your artificial putting greens will be for golf, 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.

DO: CHOOSE SOUTHWEST GREENS

Synthetic putting greens can be a great addition to any home, but it's crucial to do your research and make smart decisions along the way. By following these key recommendations, you can create a gorgeous and efficient putting green that you'll love for a long time. Get a free quote today to see how we can transform your entertainment space.