Installing a putting green in your backyard can be the perfect solution for avid golfers who want to improve their skills without leaving the comfort of their own home. However, natural grass putting greens constantly need to be maintained and repaired, and you’ll have to battle with inconsistent terrain.

With an artificial turf putting green, you can enjoy a beautiful and even landscape year after year, achieving the perfect terrain for consistent play with virtually no maintenance. However, in order to have a high-quality and long-lasting turf putting green, it’s important to avoid these common mistakes that can lead to costly repairs and a subpar playing experience.

Choosing the Wrong Turf Product

The first step in installing an outdoor putting green is to select the right wholesale artificial turf product. Many homeowners make the mistake of choosing standard synthetic grass that is not specifically designed for putting greens. This can result in a green that is not as smooth or consistent as desired, leading to frustration and difficulty playing.

When choosing artificial turf for your putting green, make sure to select a product that is designed specifically for golf and putting greens. Look for features such as low-cut pile height, stimp rating, and a high-density face weight. These features will help to ensure that your outdoor putting green has a true roll and realistic playing experience.

Not Preparing the Ground Properly

Proper ground preparation is crucial in creating a smooth and durable turf putting green. Many DIY installers skip this step, resulting in an uneven surface and a green that does not perform well. The ground should always be leveled and compacted to create a stable base for the artificial turf.

It’s also important to remove any existing vegetation and debris from the area before laying down the turf. Failure to do so can lead to uneven spots and bumps in the surface of the putting green. Take the time to properly prepare the ground before proceeding with the turf installation to avoid future problems.

Ignoring Drainage

Drainage is often overlooked when installing a synthetic turf putting green, but it’s a crucial component for maintaining a high-quality playing surface. Without proper drainage, water can pool on the surface of the green, leading to mold, mildew, and an unpleasant odor.

During the ground preparation stage, make sure to add an AirDrain grid to improve the installation’s drainage. This will allow water to easily drain through the turf, keeping the surface dry and playable. It’s also important to regularly brush or sweep the surface to keep the turf fibers upright, which avoids infill compaction and aids in proper drainage.

Neglecting Seam Alignment

Seam alignment is a detail that many DIY homeowners overlook during the installation process, but it can have a big impact on the appearance and performance of your turf putting green. Improper seam alignment can create a visible seam and an uneven surface, making it difficult to achieve a smooth ball roll.

To ensure proper seam alignment, make sure to carefully measure and cut the turf pieces, and use a strong adhesive to secure the seams. If you’re a homeowner looking to install your own outdoor putting green, it’s best to have a professional turf installer handle this step, as they have the expertise and tools to ensure precise alignment.

Not Applying Enough Infill

Infill is a vital component of an artificial turf putting green, as it helps to create a realistic playing experience and improves the durability of the landscape. Many people make the mistake of not using enough infill after installation, resulting in a turf putting green that doesn’t hold up well to foot traffic and can become lumpy and uneven over time.

When adding infill to your turf putting green, make sure to use the recommended amount — typically 2-3 pounds per square foot. It’s important to distribute the infill evenly, and thoroughly brush it into the turf fibers to create a consistent and durable surface.

If you need further guidance in choosing which artificial turf products are right for your project’s needs, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse location. At SGW Bay Area, we have dozens of wholesale turf products available, including putting green turf and turf installation accessories, so we can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products for your client’s home or business. SGW Bay Area has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers, and homeowners alike with all their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about our wholesale turf products or to receive guidance with your next turf grass installation, contact your local SGW Bay Area facility today.