If you want to subtract strokes from your golf game, you must improve your putting. Practicing on a professional course is ideal, but it isn’t always convenient. This is why many golfers choose to build a backyard putting green. Artificial turf allows you to recreate the true roll and feel of a championship green without the intense maintenance of natural grass.
Step 1: Prep Your Site for a Professional Green
The first step to build a backyard putting green is selecting the right location. A space of approximately 1,000 square feet is ideal. This size provides enough room to practice putts from various distances and angles. Avoid areas with steep slopes, as a relatively flat surface ensures a fair and consistent ball roll.
Once you select your site, excavate the area to a depth of approximately 10 inches. This depth allows for a robust sub-base that handles drainage efficiently. Proper excavation prevents water from pooling on your green after a heavy rain. After digging, install a solid border using pressure-treated wood or decorative stone to keep your perimeter clean and secure.
Step 2: Install the High-Performance Base
After excavating, you must lay a stable base material. We recommend using crushed gravel or decomposed granite. This layer provides the necessary structural support for your synthetic turf. It also acts as a primary drainage system to keep the surface dry.
Level the base material carefully. Use a plate compactor to create a rock-hard, smooth surface. Any imperfections in the base will show through the turf and affect your ball’s path. If you want to simulate professional undulations, you can subtly shape the base during this stage. For more technical details on base compaction, you can reference standard civil engineering guides for permeable bases.
Step 3: Lay Your Specialized Golf Turf
The final stage to build a backyard putting green is selecting and laying your turf. At Synthetic Turf International, we offer world-class options like NP45 and STI Pro Putt. These products are engineered specifically for golf. They offer the exact stimp speed and texture of a natural country club green.
Start at one edge and roll the turf across the entire length of the base. Smooth out any creases as you go. If your design requires multiple strips, join them using high-strength outdoor adhesive and seaming tape. Once the turf is secure, trim the edges to fit your border perfectly. Finish by adding a specialized golf infill to help the fibers stand up and control the ball speed.
Quick Q&A: Backyard Putting Greens
Costs vary based on size and turf quality. Generally, a professional-grade DIY project ranges from $15 to $25 per square foot for materials.
Yes. By adjusting the type and amount of infill used, you can increase or decrease the stimp speed to match your favorite local course.
Very little. Simply use a leaf blower to remove organic debris and a garden hose to rinse away dust or pollen.
STI Pro Putt is the industry standard for home greens. It provides a consistent, non-directional roll that mimics real bentgrass.
Start Your Golf Project Today
When you build a backyard putting green, you invest in your game and your home’s value. You no longer have to drive to the club to work on your short game. Instead, you can step out your back door and practice whenever you have a spare moment.
Are you ready to create the ultimate practice facility? Contact our expert team today to discuss your project and choose the right turf for your needs!