
Building a putting green with artificial grass at home can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. First, determine the size and shape of your putting green based on the space you have available.
Choose a location with good drainage, as artificial grass can be heavy and may not drain well if water accumulates. The ideal size for a home putting green is around 12 feet by 15 feet, but you can adjust the size to fit your space.
Select a high-quality artificial grass specifically designed for putting greens, which typically has a shorter pile height and a more realistic texture. This type of grass is usually made from polypropylene or polyethylene materials.
Consider adding a slope or undulation to your putting green to make it more challenging and realistic.
Planning and Preparation
Planning a backyard putting green requires some thought and preparation. Assess the available space in your backyard to envision the size and shape of your putting green.
Consider factors like the slope of the land, available sunlight, and any potential obstacles. Sketch out a basic plan to guide you through the construction process.
Measure the space where the green will go using a tape measure, marking out the putting green's size with stakes, strings, and flags.
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Measure Future Path

Assess the available space in your backyard to envision the size and shape of your putting green.
Consider factors like the slope of the land, available sunlight, and any potential obstacles when planning your putting green.
Start by sketching out a basic plan to guide you through the construction process.
Using the tape measure, mark out the putting green’s size with stakes, strings, and flags to visualize its future path.
You can always adjust the shape later on, but keep in mind that you don't want to compromise your turf size or cut pieces too small.
Cost
The cost of a backyard putting green can be a significant factor in your planning and preparation. Your average cost per square foot will be between $18-$25, depending on the size and scope of the project.
A medium-size putting green, around 200 square feet, will cost you around $4,300 on average. This is a good size for a small to medium-sized yard.
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A larger artificial green, 500 square feet or more, can cost upwards of $9,000. This is definitely a bigger investment, but it can be a great option if you have the space.
Pricing can also vary depending on location, but on average, you can expect to pay between $14-22 per square foot. This is a good range to keep in mind as you're planning your project.
Site Selection and Layout
To start building your putting green, you'll need to choose a flat and level area of your yard, big enough for the turf you ordered, plus extra space for cutting around objects like trees or fences.
The flatter the terrain to start, the easier it will be to level it to slope, but don't worry if your yard has slopes – you can level them out with a tiller or sod cutter if needed. The max slope you're looking for is about 1-2% for drainage.
Decide where you'd like for your green to be, and how much space to devote to it. You can use a rough sketch to visualize your layout against your other landscaping in the backyard, and make sure it makes sense.
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Select the Site
Choosing the right site for your turf installation is crucial. Make sure it's a flat and level area of your yard.
You'll want to select a spot that's big enough for the turf you ordered, plus extra space for cutting around objects like trees or fences. Don't worry if your yard has slopes – you can level them out with a tiller or sod cutter if needed.
The size of the area will depend on the type of turf you're installing, and it's better to have a little extra space to work with.
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Site Selection and Layout
Choose a flat and level area of your yard for your putting green, making sure it's big enough for the turf plus extra space for cutting around objects like trees or fences.
The flatter the terrain to start, the easier it will be to level it to slope. A max slope of about 1-2% is ideal for drainage.
You can level out slopes with a tiller or sod cutter if needed. This will make it easier to install your putting green.
Decide where you'd like your putting green to be, and how much space to devote to it. This will help you visualize the layout and make any necessary adjustments.
The size of your putting green will depend on the size of your yard and how much space you want to dedicate to golf. You can also consider the intended use of your green, such as practicing putting and chipping or improving your short stroke.
Typical shapes for a putting green include bean, bone, free shape, sausage, and square. You can choose a shape that accommodates existing structures and obstacles in your yard.
The shape of your putting green will also affect the installation process and the overall look of your green.
Materials and Tools
To build a putting green with artificial grass, you'll need the right materials and tools. Artificial turf is the foundation of your putting green, and it's essential to choose a high-quality product that replicates the texture and performance of a real putting green.
The following materials are necessary for a simple yet effective DIY backyard putting green:
- Artificial turf
- Wooden boards or synthetic putting green borders
- Sand or gravel
- Weed barrier fabric
- Utility knife
- Nails and a hammer
- Putting cup and flag
- Level
You'll also need a level to ensure your putting green is perfectly flat and even. This will help you achieve a smooth and realistic ball roll.
Materials and Tools
To create a backyard putting green, you'll need the right materials and tools. Artificial turf is a must-have, and you can choose from various types, including nylon and poly.
A utility knife will come in handy for cutting the turf to size. You'll also need nails and a hammer to secure the turf in place. A level is essential for ensuring the surface is even and smooth.
Some other tools you'll need include wooden boards or synthetic putting green borders, sand or gravel, and weed barrier fabric. These will help you create a stable and durable surface.
A putting cup and flag are also necessary for completing the putting green experience. You can choose from various colors and designs to match your backyard's aesthetic.
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Characteristics of High-Quality Installation

A high-quality putting green installation requires attention to detail and the right materials. A base depth of 3"+ is recommended for the best results.
Durability is key, especially if you have a large family or pets that will be using the putting green. Evaluate the level of foot traffic your green will endure to select a turf product that can withstand it.
A short pile height of approximately half an inch is ideal for putting, providing a consistent and smooth surface. This is essential for a realistic putting experience.
The design possibilities for your putting green are virtually limitless with artificial turf. Consider incorporating existing features of your yard, such as slopes, trees, or ponds, to create a more challenging and visually captivating golf hole.
Low maintenance is a benefit of artificial turf, but some upkeep is still required to keep it in its best condition. Occasional replenishment of infill may be necessary, and leaves, twigs, and debris should be removed regularly.
Trusted and experienced installers are crucial for a successful putting green installation. Look for installers who have a proven track record of installing putting greens specifically, and don't hesitate to read reviews from multiple sources to ensure consistency in their work.
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Installation Process
The installation process is a crucial step in building a putting green with artificial grass. Give the base a final once-over to ensure it's level, smooth, and ready for turf installation.
Make sure the turf is positioned correctly, with the direction of the pile facing your house for a more aesthetically pleasing look. If the turf has kinks or wrinkles, leave it overnight to "rest" and flatten out.
Inspect all the seams and fix any irregularities, checking the pile direction to ensure everything is even and smooth.
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Installing the Surface
Installing the surface of your artificial putting green is a crucial step in the installation process. Make sure the base is level, smooth, and ready for turf installation before proceeding.
You'll want to lay the turf out on the area, ensuring it's positioned correctly with the pile facing your house for aesthetic purposes. This way, you'll be looking into the pile every time you look out into your putting green.
Inspect all the seams and fix any irregularities to ensure a smooth surface. Check the pile direction and make sure everything is even and smooth.
A smoothly graded surface is essential to prevent affecting the ball roll and gameplay, so make sure the installers create one. A 3"+ base depth is recommended for the best results.
Use a rake to level out the ground and create an even surface, checking for any bumps, dips, and differences periodically. Then, use the compactor to flatten everything out.
Give the installation site a few passes with the roller to help settle the turf in and create a natural-looking putting green. This will also help reduce the risk of any wrinkles or air pockets in the turf.
A firm, smooth surface is ideal for all your putting strokes, which is why Envirofillinfill is a great choice for artificial turf greens.
Pile Height: Importance Explained
A shorter pile height is crucial for putting green turf, allowing the golf ball to roll smoothly and consistently across the surface, just like on a natural putting green.

For putting green turf, a pile height of approximately half an inch is ideal, replicating the texture and performance of a real putting green.
Using a shorter pile height can help you achieve a more authentic putting experience, making it easier to translate your practice to actual golf courses.
A shorter pile height also helps minimize the appearance of wear over time, making your putting green look its best even with heavy use.
In contrast, using longer pile heights can have a negative effect on the precision and accuracy of a golfer's short game, detracting from its realism and potentially hindering their performance.
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Finishing Touches
Adding a fringe to your artificial turf putting green is a must for stability and protection.
Typically, fringe is 1”-2” tall turf connected to the putting green surface.
You can also use the fringe to chip off if a longer chipping surface is preferred.
Some people opt for a staggered fringe, with 1” tall turf next to 2” tall turf, allowing for chipping off of the fairway and then the rough.
The width of the fringe area can vary depending on the space available.
To complete the look, install a putting cup at one end of the green and place a flag for a realistic touch.
Make sure the cup is level with the surface, so it's not uneven.
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Maintenance and Upkeep
Brush your DIY putting green regularly to maintain its smoothness. This is especially important if you notice any uneven areas, in which case you should add sand to level the surface.
Remove debris and leaves promptly to prevent damage to the turf. This will also help keep your putting green looking its best.
Use an electric blower to remove debris from the surface from time to time. This will help keep your putting green in good condition.
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Let Your New Settle
Let your new putting green settle for at least 24 hours after installation. This will give the infill time to sink properly into the fibers.
Hose down the area to help the turf settle and dry out. Don't let anyone use or walk on the turf during this period.
Once the turf is dry, brush it again to make sure the infill is properly embedded into the fibers.
Maintaining Your DIY
Maintaining your DIY putting green is crucial to keep it looking its best. Regular brushing of the turf is a must to maintain its smoothness.

You should also keep an eye out for uneven areas and add sand to level the surface. This will prevent any damage to the turf.
Remove debris and leaves promptly to prevent damage to the turf. I've seen putting greens get ruined by leaves and debris, so it's essential to stay on top of it.
Use an electric blower to remove debris from the surface from time to time. This will keep the surface looking neat and tidy.
Rinse the putting green surface occasionally to flush the area. Don't forget to check the cups for proper drainage, or you might end up with a soggy mess.
A push broom can help redistribute infill on your fringe and keep the blades standing upright. This will keep your putting green looking its best.
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DIY vs. Professional Installation
Installing a putting green with artificial grass requires attention to detail, so it's essential to consider whether you should do it yourself or hire a professional installer. This is highly detail-oriented work that can affect the performance and longevity of the green if not done correctly.
If you're not confident in your ability to prep your backyard and install the artificial turf perfectly, it's better to work with a professional installer. They can ensure your green looks and feels the way you envisioned it.
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DIY vs. Professional Installation

Installing a DIY putting green can be a fun and rewarding project, but it's essential to consider the potential consequences of a poorly executed installation.
If your backyard prep work or installation isn't just right, it can negatively affect the performance and longevity of the putting green.
A professional installer can ensure that your green looks and feels the way you envisioned it, saving you time and stress in the long run.
Working with a professional installer may require a higher upfront cost, but it can provide peace of mind and a more enjoyable experience overall.
Finding a Contractor
Finding a contractor to build your backyard putting green is crucial to its success. Expert installers are key, and a crew without experience in building synthetic putting greens can lead to a lost investment.
Installing a putting green is a different process than artificial grass installation, requiring more rigorous labor. This is why it's essential to choose a contractor who knows what they're doing.
If you don't have access to professional tools, building a putting green DIY can be a challenging task. Even with research, it's a project best left to the experts.
A professional contractor will have the experience and equipment to get the job done right, saving you time and money in the long run.
Distinguish Experts from Contractors
To ensure a successful putting green installation, it's crucial to distinguish experts from cheap contractors. One way to do this is by asking to see their portfolio of work. If they're experienced in putting green installation, they should have sample projects to showcase.
A good installer should have a proven track record of installing putting greens specifically. You can check this by reading reviews from multiple sources to ensure consistency in their work.
Asking questions is another way to gauge an installer's knowledge and expertise. If they're unaware of basic terms or seem unsure of themselves, it's a red flag. You can ask them about their experience with different types of turf, infill, or design options to see how much they know.
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Here are some key questions to ask potential installers:
A trustworthy installer should be willing to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the installation process. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can ensure that you're working with an expert who will deliver a high-quality putting green installation.
Artificial Grass Types and Characteristics
To create a realistic putting green experience, choose artificial grass with a short pile height of around half an inch. This will help mimic the characteristics of real grass.
The texture of the putting green grass can affect the speed and roll of the ball. Different surfaces will provide varying stimp speeds, so select the one that suits your preferences.
Artificial grass with infill will result in a faster roll, while those without infill will offer a slower and more controlled roll.
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Bean Shaped
If you're looking for a compact artificial putting green, the bean shaped design is a great option. It works best for smaller backyards.
This shape is the most popular for artificial putting greens, which suggests it's a tried and true design.
Choosing the Right Grass Type
To create a truly realistic putting green experience, you need to choose the right type of artificial grass. Opt for a specific variety that accurately replicates the characteristics of real grass.
A short pile height of around half an inch is essential for a realistic ball roll. Different surfaces will provide varying stimp speeds, so select the one that suits your preferences.
Consider whether the product has infill or not, as this can also affect the ball roll. Artificial grass with infill will result in a faster roll, while those without infill will offer a slower and more controlled roll.
The frequency of use will help you gauge the wear and tear the turf will experience, so consider how often you plan on utilizing your putting green. Will it be used for daily practice, occasional use, or something in between?
Understanding the users of your putting green, whether they're experienced golfers or beginners, will enable you to assess the potential impact on the turf based on different skill levels and practice routines.
A more active pet can cause damage to the turf, so evaluate how active your dogs are and determine the necessary durability and resilience of the turf.
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Are Any Good
Artificial putting greens are an excellent choice for golf enthusiasts and homeowners looking for a hassle-free practice area to perfect their putting skills all year round.
They offer numerous benefits, making them a valuable addition to any indoor or backyard space.
Professionally installed artificial putting greens have become even more lifelike and realistic with continuous advancements in artificial grass technology.
This makes them a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about improving their golf game.
These synthetic greens provide a consistent and reliable surface for practicing your putting skills, which can be a game-changer for golfers of all levels.
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Infill and Drainage
Infill is a crucial component of artificial grass, and it plays a vital role in creating a resilient and durable putting green. It helps the turf stay in shape and look great for years, giving it a natural "springy" feel.
The type of infill you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. For example, if you live in an area with a lot of rain, you'll want an infill that's built for optimal drainage.
Envirofill is a great option for areas with heavy rainfall, as it's made from round acrylic coated sand that helps the drainage process run smoothly. This ensures your putting green stays pristine and playable.
Infill also plays a crucial role in keeping synthetic turf fibers upright and maintaining a realistic appearance. By adding weight to the artificial grass, infill prevents the formation of wrinkles, warping, and shifting over time.
The infill material, like rounded silica sand, enhances the turf's realism by mimicking the properties of natural grass. This creates a more natural and visually pleasing aesthetic.
You can choose from various types of infill materials, including sand, cork, walnut shells, and zeolite. Each type has its own unique benefits and characteristics.
When it comes to applying infill, make sure to use a drop or broadcast spreader to evenly distribute it over the turf. Then, use a power broom or stiff brush to work it into the turf fibers and ensure it's evenly distributed.
A typical application of infill is 1-2 pounds per square foot of premium infill, which helps to keep the turf in place and resist wear from foot traffic.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How thick should artificial grass be for putting green?
For a backyard putting green, choose artificial grass with a short pile height of 3/8" to 5/8" (or 1/2") for optimal performance and playability. This thickness provides the perfect balance for a smooth, even roll.
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