Whether you're a experienced golfer or just starting out, having your own putting green at home can be a huge advantage. With the right setup and care, you can improve your game, reduce your expenses on golf, and practice at your own pace.

But as with any long-term commitment, you should be aware of certain best practices and pitfalls when it comes to artificial putting greens. These are some suggestions 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. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to do your homework before deciding. Some things to consider include durability, ball speed, rebound, and how the material reacts to different weather conditions. At Southwest Greens of Metro New York, we can help you make an informed decision about choosing the right surface.

DON'T: GO CHEAP ON INSTALLATION

The installation process is crucial when it comes to artificial putting greens. If the base isn't properly prepared, you could experience issues such as irregularities, air pockets, or even sinking. It's essential to choose an experienced installer who will spend the necessary time to get ready 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 our competitors.

DO: CONSIDER SIZE & SHAPE

The dimensions and shape of your putting green will depend on various factors, including your space constraints, finances, and personal tastes. However, it's important to consider the entire 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 entire backyard. It might be worth considering installing synthetic turf throughout your whole backyard to reduce maintenance and give your pets and kids a fun play area. 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 pros of artificial putting greens is that they require less maintenance than natural grass. But that doesn't mean you can ignore them completely. Regular brushing and cleaning will help keep your green looking and playing like new. You'll need to occasionally add infill such as sand or top dressing 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 professional maintenance by your turf installer.

DO: CONSIDER LIGHTING

If you want to be able to use your putting green after dark, you might consider installing lighting. LED lights are a common choice for artificial putting greens because they're energy-efficient, durable, and don't get hot, so they won't melt the turf. It's strongly advised that the lights are installed by a pro and angled 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 uses as well. Depending on the design and layout of your green, it could also be used for activities such as lawn bowling or different sports.

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 wise decisions along the way. By following these key recommendations, you can create a gorgeous and efficient putting green that you'll love for years to come. Get a free quote today to see how Southwest Greens can transform your entertainment space.