NEED ADVICE: how best to build a DIY base for a backyard Synlawn putting green

[SnazzyD]

I recently bought a used Synlawn putting green that's ~12x14 feet and plan to install it in my backyard. I've figured out the logistics on how to get this massive, heavy-as-hell carpet from Point A to Point B, but I am not sure what sort of base I should have for it.

I want the green to be relatively flat, but I'd also like to work in some contour at some point by shaping either the material underneath or pulling it back and adding some shims of some kind or another.

I've been reading a lot on this and see all sorts of advice for DIY synthetic putting greens. Some say you should place it over builder sand, others say use crushed gravel that's flattened down...some even suggest putting it on a rubber or weather treated wooden base or some other firm surface.

Any ideas or advice?

[em69]

I would suggest giving the local dealer a call (see below). I spoke to him last week about an indoor project I am planning. Great guy and will give you the best advice.

Larry M. Roy
Owner and Distributor
SYNLawn Ottawa
office: 613-794-6688
mobile: 613-850-6868
email: lroy@synlawn.ca
web: www.Ottawaartificialgrass.ca
www.synlawn.ca

[SnazzyD]

Thanks - I will reach out for sure.

I'd still like to hear from anyone who's given this a go in the past...given I have a short window in which I'd like to finish this (before going on vacation), I'm thinking of:

• digging down a few inches
• leveling off the area
• adding a layer of construction sand
• adding a layer of crushed stone
• renting a compactor to flatten it all out.

I had the idea to lay a tarp between the rock and the carpet as a water barrier, but I wouldn't want to hear any squeaks as I walk over it. Then there's the digging/placement of the holes - given the weight of the green, I think I'll have to lay it down and then "dig from above".


McGuyver would be proud....ish. I'm trying to remember to take some photos along the journey in order to preserve the glory (or document this cautionary tale...lol)

[em69]

Where did you find a used Synlawn? That is a good find.

[SnazzyD]

Whenever someone upgrades their existing putting green, they need to find a new home for the old one - I just got lucky in a sense, but mostly because nobody else could figure out how to move something that big and heavy (weighed about 700-800lbs).

I'll soon post a photo of it, semi-complete laid out in my backyard (my images are too big, it seems). Once I recover from the multiple hernias, I will even give it a try...lol