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Putting Green – Cost Calculator
Artificial Turf Putting Green Cost Calculator
This cost calculator is for entertainment purposes only. It’s meant to provide you with a general idea of the potential cost of installing artificial grass. Installation cost is influenced by a number of factors that differ from project to project. No two projects are the same, so if you’d like a real installation quote, search our directory for an artificial turf installer nearby and reach out to them. The cost calculator below is intended to provide a better understanding of the costs of artificial grass and the factors that affect how much your project will cost. It is NOT meant to provide an actual estimate and should be thought of as for entertainment and educational purposes only.
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What Does a Synthetic Turf Backyard Putting Green Cost?
The cost of installing an artificial turf backyard putting green can vary widely depending on several factors. The design, materials and professional installation of a synthetic turf putting green generally costs anywhere from $15 to $40 per square foot, with more complex or larger installations potentially costing more. For a small to medium-sized green (about 500 square feet), you might expect to pay between $7,500 and $20,000, while larger, more elaborate greens can exceed this range.
Because it’s priced per square foot, in order to estimate the cost of a putting green installation you first need to measure the space and calculate the square footage. Measure the length (L) and width (W) of your space and multiply the two. L x W = Square Feet. If your lawn has an unusual shape, determining the square footage can be a little more difficult. We have a guide that shows how to measure the square footage of spaces with a variety of shapes.
It’s important to get quotes from local artificial turf installers who can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific requirements and local market conditions. Below we’ll explore the most influential factors in determining artificial turf putting green costs.
Putting Green Size:
The larger the putting green, the more artificial turf is required, increasing the cost of materials. This includes not only the turf itself but also the base materials, infill, and any weed barriers or underlayment. Larger greens take more time to install, which also increases labor costs. This is particularly true for intricate designs or greens with multiple holes or features. The total cost of a home golf green will increase in relation to its complexity.
An often overlooked aspect of putting green installations is the prep work and base installation. A larger area may require more extensive site preparation, such as leveling, landscaping, or addressing drainage issues. This groundwork is often charged by the square foot, so a larger green incurs higher costs. While bigger putting greens cost more overall, larger projects benefit from economies of scale, where the cost per square foot decreases as the size increases. This is because certain fixed costs (like equipment rental or initial site assessment) are spread over a larger area.
Here are some general pricing guidelines.
• Under 400 square feet: $25 to $30+ per sq. ft.
• 400 – 2,000 square feet: $20 to $30 per sq. ft.
• 2,000 square feet and larger: $15 to $20 per sq. ft.
Design:
The design of a backyard putting green significantly impacts the cost of installation, largely due to the intricacies and challenges involved in creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing green. An effective design requires a blend of artistry and technical know-how, as it must not only look appealing but also offer a realistic golfing experience. This involves understanding the nuances of golf course design, such as the placement of holes, the incorporation of slopes and undulations, and the mimicry of various green speeds and textures seen in professional courses. Designing a putting green that realistically simulates actual playing conditions demands a high level of skill and experience, which typically comes at a premium.
Custom features like multiple holes, sand traps, water hazards, or specific contours and elevations can significantly increase both the material and labor costs. These features not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also elevate the playing experience, allowing golfers to practice a wider range of shots and scenarios. The inclusion of such elements requires precise planning and execution, often involving more sophisticated construction techniques and materials. This level of customization demands more time for installation and possibly the use of specialized equipment, both of which contribute to a higher overall cost.
Site Accessibility:
Site accessibility and prep work significantly influence the cost of installing a backyard putting green. When it comes to accessibility, the ease with which materials and equipment can be brought to the installation site plays a pivotal role. If the site is difficult to access — for example, if it’s located in a backyard with narrow entries, obstacles, or steep terrain — the logistics become more complex. This complexity can lead to increased labor costs, as extra time and effort are required to transport materials. In some cases, special equipment might be needed to move heavy items like rolls of turf or base materials, further escalating costs. Moreover, limited accessibility can extend the duration of the project, as tasks that would otherwise be straightforward in an easily accessible area take longer to accomplish under challenging conditions.
Prep Work Required:
Preparation work is another critical factor in determining the cost. This includes clearing the area, removing existing grass or landscaping, leveling the ground, and ensuring proper drainage. The condition of the existing site can vary widely; a site with uneven terrain, poor soil conditions, or existing hardscaping will require more extensive preparation than a relatively flat and clear area. Ground leveling is essential for a smooth, playable surface and can be labor-intensive, particularly if the area has significant undulations or slopes.
Ensuring adequate drainage is another crucial aspect, as poor drainage can lead to water pooling on the surface, affecting both playability and the longevity of the green. The installation of drainage systems or specialized base layers to facilitate drainage can add to the overall cost. In summary, the more extensive the site preparation required, the higher the cost of the installation, as both material and labor expenses increase with the complexity and scale of the prep work needed.
Special Features:
The inclusion of additional features like bunkers, tee boxes, and fringe layers can significantly affect the cost of a backyard putting green installation, both in terms of materials and labor. Those are just the putting green specific features. Other popular options such as landscape lighting, water features, stone work, plants, etc. may not affect the putting green’s cost, but they will increase a projects overall cost.
Bunkers or Sand Traps
Bunkers, or sand traps, are a popular feature for those seeking a more challenging and realistic golf experience. They can be constructed with real sand or using a padded white turf. Installing a bunker involves additional excavation, proper drainage. If opting for a real sand bunker, you’ll need the right type of sand, which must be maintained to prevent compaction and contamination. The complexity of designing and constructing a bunker that mimics those found on a golf course adds significantly to the cost. The need for specialized sand, along with the labor for shaping and installing the bunker, can increase the overall budget.
Tee Boxes
Tee boxes are another feature that can enhance a backyard putting green. They allow for practicing longer shots and can vary in size and design. The construction of tee boxes usually requires additional turf different from the putting surface, and sometimes a different base to support the swing mechanics and durability required for this area. The cost will depend on the number, size, and type of tee boxes included.
Fringe or Fairway Layers
Fringe and fairway layers, which simulate the rough or fairway grass around a green, add aesthetic appeal and functionality, allowing for a variety of shots. However, this requires different types of turf with longer blades to mimic the feel and behavior of a rough or fairway. The installation of these fringe areas needs to blend seamlessly with the putting surface, requiring precision and skill, which adds to labor costs.
Each of these features requires additional materials, time, and expertise to install, contributing to a higher overall cost. The more complex and numerous the features, the more the cost will increase. These features not only enhance the playability and visual appeal of the green but also require careful planning and skilled craftsmanship to execute effectively, all of which are reflected in the final cost of the project.
Professional Installation:
An installer’s level of experience significantly affects the cost of a backyard putting green installation. Experienced installers typically charge more for their services, but this higher cost often translates into superior quality and craftsmanship. Experienced professionals bring a depth of knowledge in various aspects of putting green installation, from understanding the best materials and practices for lasting durability to the ability to handle complex designs and features like slopes, bunkers, and fringe layers. Their expertise ensures that the green not only looks visually appealing but also performs well, offering a realistic golf experience and durability over time.
An experienced installer can anticipate and effectively manage potential challenges, leading to a smoother installation process and reducing the likelihood of future problems, such as poor drainage or uneven surfaces, which can be costly to fix. In essence, investing in a skilled installer is investing in the quality and longevity of your putting green, which can provide greater satisfaction and value in the long run.
Type of Putting Green Turf:
The type of artificial turf selected for a backyard putting green installation plays a crucial role in both the cost and the quality of the final product. In the realm of putting greens, artificial turfs are specifically designed to replicate the feel, roll, and response of natural golf course greens. These turfs vary in fiber material, pile height, density, and texture, each contributing differently to the playing experience and cost.
Nylon and polypropylene are common materials used in putting green turfs. Nylon turfs, known for their durability and ability to maintain upright fiber structure, offer a consistent putting surface. They are often more expensive due to their longer lifespan and superior roll characteristics. Polypropylene turfs, on the other hand, are generally more affordable but may require more maintenance, such as brushing, to keep the fibers upright. The pile height of the turf also affects performance and price. Shorter pile heights, typical in putting green turfs, provide a faster ball roll, mirroring the conditions of professional golf courses. However, higher-density turfs with shorter pile heights are usually more costly due to the increased material and manufacturing precision required.
What Are The Benefits of an Artificial Turf Backyard Putting Green?
A backyard putting green is more than just a luxury addition; it’s an investment in your golfing skills, a source of entertainment, and an enhancement to your property’s aesthetic and value. It also offers practical benefits like low maintenance and year-round enjoyment, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.
Improved Golf Skills
Having an artificial turf putting green at home allows for convenient and regular practice, helping to improve putting skills and overall golf performance. It's a fantastic way for avid golfers to work on their short game without the need to travel to a golf course.
Entertainment
A backyard putting green is a great feature for entertaining guests, offering a fun and engaging activity for parties or gatherings. It also serves as a leisurely pastime for family members of all ages, encouraging outdoor time and physical activity.
Aesthetic Appeal
A well-designed artificial turf putting green can enhance the beauty and appeal of your backyard. It adds a unique landscaping element that can complement your garden or outdoor space, potentially increasing your property's overall aesthetic value.
Low Maintenance
Artificial turf putting greens require minimal maintenance compared to natural grass. They don't need watering, mowing, or fertilizing, saving time and effort in lawn care. This is particularly advantageous in regions where water conservation is essential.
Boost Property Value
A professionally installed putting green can increase your property's value, making it more attractive to potential buyers, especially golf enthusiasts. It's a luxury amenity that can set your property apart in the real estate market.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Unlike natural grass that may suffer in extreme weather, artificial grass backyard putting greens can be used year-round in most climates. This durability ensures consistent playability and year-round enjoyment regardless of the season.
Customization
Putting greens can be customized to fit the size and shape of your yard and tailored to your specific playing preferences, such as desired level of difficulty, number of holes, and design features like bunkers, slopes, fringes, etc.
Health & Wellness
Golf is a sport that offers both mental and physical health benefits, including stress relief, improved concentration, and gentle physical exercise. A backyard putting green provides easy access to these health benefits.
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