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How to Build Your Own Backyard Putting Green With Artificial Turf in San Jose

Posted by Artificial Turf Express on September 16, 2024
Putting Greens
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The Ultimate Guide to Artificial Putting Green Installation - Artificial Turf Express

So, you’re thinking about building a putting green at home? Awesome idea! It’s a fun project and you’ll love having your own spot to practice. We’re walking you through the whole process—from planning it out to laying down the turf. 

What You’ll Need to Build a Backyard Putting Green

Here’s your shopping list:

  • Artificial Turf: Choose turf designed specifically for putting greens for the best ball roll and performance. We recommend this product, it’s great for diy installations.
  • Base Materials: Decomposed granite or road base. You can get this at your local rockery or landscaping shop.
  • Decomposed Granite Stabilizer: Optional if using decomposed granite for added stability.
  • Drainage Layer: AirDrain or PDS Tiles to keep water moving efficiently. Don’t skip this or you might end up with a flooded putting green at the first downpour.
  • Weed Killer and Weed Barrier: To prevent any unwanted growth beneath your green. This product is a tried and tested choice.  
  • Edging Material: To define your putting green area. Choose from steel edging, aluminum edging, or plastic edging.
  • Cup and Flag Set: Essential for that authentic putting experience. Check out our putting green accessories to get what you need or just get the Complete Flag Assembly to cut down on the effort.
  • Infill: Silica sand or another putting green-specific infill to enhance turf performance. Consider our sand turf infill, walnut shell infill, and zeolite infill. They’re specially engineered for putting green installations.
  • Turf Glue and Seaming Tape: For connecting turf sections seamlessly. Go to our accessories page to order your turf glue, seaming tape, and other installation essentials.
  • Tools: Shovel, sod cutter, putting green roller, push broom, utility knife, measuring tape, hammer, nongalvanized nails, and Grandi groom.

Step 1: Plan Your Putting Green Layout

  • Map It Out: Begin by deciding where you want your putting green. Consider the existing landscape, drainage patterns, and any shade that could affect the turf’s performance. Keep in mind that a slight slope adds a challenge, but make sure there are no extreme inclines.
  • Measure Your Space: Mark the boundaries of your green with spray paint or stakes and string. This will help you visualize the final result and make adjustments before breaking ground.

Step 2: Prepare the Ground

  • Clear the Area: Remove all existing grass, weeds, and debris. Dig down about 4 inches to allow room for your base layers. Use a sod cutter if you have one; otherwise, a shovel works fine for smaller areas.
  • Install Edging: Set up your edging material along the boundaries of your green. This helps keep your base materials in place and gives the green a clean, professional look.
  • Treat the Soil: Apply a weed killer to the area and lay down a weed barrier fabric to prevent future growth. This step is crucial in San Jose, where weeds can be persistent year-round.

Step 3: Build the Base

  • Lay Base Material: Spread decomposed granite or road base evenly across the area. If you’re going with decomposed granite, consider adding a stabilizer for extra firmness. The base should be about 3-4 inches deep once compacted.
  • Compact the Base: Use a motorized compactor to press the base down firmly. This will create a solid foundation that prevents any shifting or sinking. Aim for a smooth surface with a slight crown to facilitate drainage.
  • Install Drainage Layer: Lay down AirDrain or PDS tiles to create an efficient drainage system. This step is especially important in San Jose, where occasional heavy rains can lead to water pooling.

Step 4: Lay the Artificial Turf

  • Acclimate the Turf: Unroll your artificial turf and let it sit in the sun for about 30 minutes. This helps soften the material, making it easier to work with.
  • Lay Out the Turf: Position the turf rolls over your base, making sure the grain of the grass blades is consistent. Cut the turf to fit your space using a utility knife.
  • Seam the Turf: If your putting green requires multiple rolls of turf, use seaming tape and glue to connect them. Stretch the turf as you go to avoid wrinkles or bubbles that can affect ball roll.
  • Secure the Turf: Secure the turf along the perimeter using large nails every two inches. Be sure the nail heads are flush with the turf to keep everything smooth.

Step 5: Cut the Cup Holes

  • Mark Your Holes: Decide where you want your cups and mark them. For a standard backyard green, 2-3 cups are usually enough.
  • Cut Out the Holes: Use a sharp utility knife to cut holes in the turf and install the cups securely into the base. Make sure they sit flush with the turf for an authentic experience.

Step 6: Apply Infill and Brush the Turf

  • Spread Infill: Using a push broom, spread your chosen infill evenly across the green. This helps the turf blades stand upright and gives the surface a more realistic feel.
  • Brush the Turf: Brush the turf with a power broom (or push broom if you don’t have one) to help the infill settle properly. This will ensure that the turf blades remain upright and provide the right level of resistance for putting.
  • Final Touches: Use the broom to lift the grass blades and make any final adjustments. Lightly hose down the turf to help the infill settle and remove any dust.

Step 7: Let It Settle

Let the green sit overnight to allow the infill to fully settle and the turf to adjust. You’re now ready to practice your putts and enjoy your new backyard oasis.

Need More Help?

If you have any questions or need assistance with your putting green project, give us a call at 408-960-2255 or visit us at our San Jose showroom. Our Artificial Turf Express team can help you choose the right materials, provide expert advice, and make sure your DIY project is a hole-in-one.

We also offer delivery around the San Jose area, so reach out if that’s something you’d like.