If you’re thinking about installing artificial grass, you’ve probably come across two common terms: putting green turf and regular artificial turf. While they might seem similar at first, they serve different purposes and have unique features. Choosing the right type of turf depends on how you plan to use your space, whether it’s for casual backyard fun, serious golf practice, or general landscaping.
Let’s break down the key differences between putting green turf and artificial turf, so you can make an informed decision.
Understanding Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural grass. It’s used for lawns, playgrounds, sports fields, and commercial spaces. It’s a great alternative to real grass because it requires little maintenance, stays green year-round, and can handle heavy foot traffic without turning into a patchy mess.
Features of Artificial Turf:
- Soft, with a natural grass-like texture
- Comes in different pile heights (shorter for a freshly mowed look, longer for a lush appearance)
- Typically has a mix of green tones for a realistic look
- Can be installed over different surfaces, including soil, concrete, and decking
- Great for pets, kids, and general outdoor use
Understanding Putting Green Turf
Putting green turf is specifically designed for golf enthusiasts who want a smooth, consistent surface for practicing their short game. Unlike regular artificial grass, putting green turf has a shorter, more compact pile height that allows a golf ball to roll smoothly. We source our putting green from a local provider in Oakville ON, which provides quality putting green as well as artificial grass imported from The US.
Features of Putting Green Turf:
- Extremely short and dense fibres for a true ball roll
- Typically uniform in colour (no multi-tone blends like standard artificial turf)
- Built for performance rather than aesthetics
- Requires a proper base installation for realistic ball movement
- Used primarily in backyard golf setups, professional practice areas, and mini-golf courses
Key Differences Between Putting Green Turf and Artificial Turf
| Feature | Artificial Turf | Putting Green Turf |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Landscaping, play areas, general outdoor use | Golf practice, smooth ball roll |
| Fiber Length | Medium to long | Very short and dense |
| Appearance | Realistic, mixed green tones | Uniform color, golf-course style |
| Maintenance | Low | Requires occasional brushing to maintain ball speed |
| Installation Base | Can be installed over soil, concrete, or decking | Needs a firm, level base with proper drainage |
| Usability | Good for walking, playing, pets | Designed for putting and short game practice only |
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on how you plan to use your outdoor space. If you want a lawn that looks great and is easy to maintain, go with artificial turf. If you’re a golfer looking for a backyard practice area, putting green turf is the way to go.
However, some homeowners opt for both—using artificial turf for most of the yard while incorporating a small putting green area. This way, you get the best of both worlds: a great-looking yard and a dedicated golf practice space.
FAQs
1. Can I use putting green turf as regular artificial grass?
Not really. Putting green turf is designed for golf, so it’s not comfortable for walking or playing. The short, dense fibers aren’t as soft as regular artificial turf, and they don’t provide the same cushion.
2. Can artificial turf be used for golf practice?
It depends on what you mean by “practice.” You can chip from artificial turf, but if you want a realistic putting experience, you’ll need proper putting green turf.
3. How much maintenance do they require?
Both options are low-maintenance compared to natural grass. Artificial turf may need occasional brushing and rinsing while putting green turf requires brushing to keep the fibres upright and rolling true.
4. What’s the cost difference?
Putting green turf tends to be more expensive due to its specialized design and installation requirements. Regular artificial turf varies in price depending on quality and pile height.
5. Can I install both in my backyard?
Yes! Many homeowners combine both types to create a visually appealing landscape while enjoying a dedicated golf area.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between putting green turf and artificial turf comes down to your needs. If you want a versatile, low-maintenance lawn, artificial turf is the best option. If you’re a golfer serious about improving your game, putting green turf is worth the investment. And if you want both? You can have a lush green lawn with a built-in putting area. Either way, artificial turf can transform your outdoor space into something enjoyable year-round.