Golf enthusiasts know that having the perfect putting green is essential for their game. From ball roll to stimp speed, a custom putting green needs to be perfectly installed to ensure it’s tailored to your or your client’s preferences.

However, while a synthetic grass putting green offers consistent gameplay unlike anything achievable with natural grass, proper installation is crucial. Whether you’re installing a synthetic grass putting green for yourself or your client, here are some of the most common installation mistakes and how you can successfully avoid them.

Choose the Right Artificial Grass Product

The first and most crucial step to achieving the perfect putting green is choosing the right artificial turf product. Many people assume that all synthetic grass is the same, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. There are different types of artificial turf that are specifically designed for different purposes, such as landscaping, pet use, playgrounds, and, of course, putting greens.

When selecting your wholesale turf, make sure to choose a product that is designed specifically for putting greens. These products are made to have a shorter, denser pile and a stiffer backing to mimic the feel of real bentgrass. They’re also made of texturized nylon, rather than polyethylene, which helps them withstand daily play. Using the wrong type of synthetic turf product can result in an uneven, soft, or bumpy surface, making it difficult to play on over time.

Properly Prepare the Site for Installation

Proper site preparation is crucial for any successful artificial grass putting green installation. Before the installation can begin, it’s important to clear the site of any debris such as rocks, roots, and other sharp objects that could potentially puncture the turf. It’s also important to level the area and ensure that it’s free of any dips or bumps.

Creating a stable base for the putting green turf is one of the most crucial steps. To ensure this is done properly, install a compacted base of crushed rock or granite, which will provide a solid foundation for your putting green. Compact the base thoroughly to prevent any settling and maintain a level surface.

Ensure Proper Drainage

Another important aspect of installing a synthetic grass putting green is ensuring proper drainage. Not only will this prevent water from pooling on the surface, but it will also help maintain the longevity of your putting green. When preparing the site, create a slight slope away from your home or any other structures to prevent water from draining toward them.

Additionally, it’s important to install a drainage grid such as AirDrain when laying the turf. A drainage grid allows for proper drainage of water through the turf’s backing and into the base below. This will help prevent any water from accumulating on the surface and ensure that your synthetic turf putting green stays in top condition for years to come.

Align the Seams Properly

Properly aligning the seams is another key factor in a successful synthetic grass putting green installation. Seams are unavoidable when it comes to installing larger areas of turf, but if not done correctly, they can create an uneven surface that will affect your ball roll. Visible seams also make your synthetic turf look more synthetic, detracting from the visual appeal of your evergreen outdoor space.

For proper seam alignment, line up the edges of the turf carefully, and securely join them using a high-quality seam tape and adhesive. To avoid any visible seams, it is recommended to cut the turf pieces at an angle and stagger the seams. For optimal results, we recommend hiring a professional turf installer to ensure that the seams are aligned correctly.

Secure the Turf Thoroughly

Once the turf is in place, it is important to secure it thoroughly to the base to prevent any shifting or wrinkling. Neglecting this step can lead to uneven surfaces and an unattractive putting green. It also causes premature wear and tear, lessening the lifespan of your synthetic turf.

To properly secure the artificial grass, use landscape staples or nails to secure the edges of the turf every 6-8 inches. In addition, make sure that the turf is taut and not too loose, as this extra material can create an unstable surface for putting over time.

Apply the Right Turf Infill Product and Quantity

Infill is an essential component of synthetic grass putting green installation. It helps to provide a more natural feel and bounce to the surface of the turf, as well as aids in achieving a consistent ball roll and efficient drainage. However, the type and amount of infill used can greatly affect the performance of your turf putting green.

It is important to apply the right infill product and quantity for the specific type of synthetic grass used. Typically, a silica sand infill is recommended for putting greens. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the amount of infill required to achieve optimal results. Too much or too little infill can lead to an uneven putting surface that will affect the roll of your ball. If you’re unsure which infill product or quantity is right for your chosen putting green product, your artificial grass provider can help.

If you need further guidance in choosing which wholesale turf products are best for your putting green project, speak to your installer or contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse location today. We can help you find the perfect synthetic grass products and turf installation accessories for your home or business. Synthetic Grass Warehouse has been an industry leader for more than 20 years, helping distributors, installers and homeowners alike with all of their artificial grass installation needs. To find out more about artificial grass wholesale or to receive guidance with your next synthetic grass installation, contact your local Synthetic Grass Warehouse facility today.