Should I DIY My Golf Simulator?

Having a golf simulator at home is a dream of practically every avid golfer. But, with so many companies on the market now, what is the best way to go about building your golf simulator? Should you build it yourself or hire a company to take care of it for you? Find out the pros and cons of both in this article.

Example DIY golf simulator build

Building your own golf simulator

Considering building your own home sim setup? Here are some pros and cons for you to take into consideration before making your decision.

Pros of a DIY golf simulator

Cost savings

Doing all of the research and work yourself is always going to save you money. If you’re just getting started and want to stick to the budget option, this is likely the best choice for you. Make sure to do your research and understand which products are best for your situation. Most top-of-the-line launch monitors, projectors, and computers are expensive, but definitely worth the money. So, consider saving up to hire a professional or to allow yourself some better equipment.

Renovations over time

Chances are, if you build your own golf simulator, there will be areas that you’ll want to improve it in the future. These improvements can be relatively costly, so you may want to wait and do them later. With your own golf simulator build, you can use it and determine how you will improve it once you have the time and funds to work on it again.

Tip: Be careful what you go to improve. A golf simulator is a complex setup and adjusting a lot of the components can lead to more issues and work. Have an existing golf simulator that you want to renovate? Contact us for a free golf simulator consultation.

Cons of building your own golf simulator

Safety

When you’re hitting golf balls around your home, safety is always going to be a concern. When you have never built a golf simulator before, it’s hard to know how much room you need and the precautions you should take to ensure the safety of your family. Plus, make sure you protect your walls properly or you’ll have a bunch of golf ball-sized holes before you know it.

Product research

There are so many names in the golf simulator industry now, but how do you know which one is best for you? Do you start with an inexpensive, less-reliable launch monitor now and upgrade later or go for the best of the best right away? Also, a golf simulator is much more than a launch monitor. You’ll also have to consider a brand new computer, projector, screen, hitting mat, enclosure, and more. If you choose to go it alone, make sure to do your due diligence before making a purchase.

Understanding the technical side

Golf simulators require a decent amount of technical know-how to set up. From the required computer specs to the projector installation and setup, you’ll be dealing with plenty of wires and technical integrations if you choose to build your own golf simulator.

Hours of manual labor

There are simple out-of-the-box golf simulator options on the market now, but they still take quite a bit of effort to set up. Expect to put aside an entire weekend or even longer to set up your golf simulator build. Plus, consider if you want to add additional options such as a seating area or a video camera for swing playback.

Inferior craftsmanship and design

Making a golf simulator look nice requires a lot of extra work besides just installating the components. You’ll need a nice, flat spot to swing as well as an optional putting area.

While a simple, out-of-the-box golf simulator build will work alright, it won’t create that wow factor for your friends and guests. This is an area that you’ll be spending a ton of time in, so you want it to look nice.

A golf simulator is also an amazing experience for guests and for hosting parties. Chances are that most people will want to give it a shot and others will want to watch. Creating a nice, spacious seating area for spectators can be an expensive, time-consuming task if attempted on your own.

Example professional golf simulator build. Want to see more photos? View our photo gallery.

Hiring a golf simulator company

Let’s discuss the pros and cons of working with a professional company instead of trying to do it all yourself.

Pros of hiring a golf simulator company

Professional, clean look

You’re going to be spending a lot of time in your golf simulator room, so you’ll want it to look nice. A professional golf simulator company will make the setup look clean, professional, and something that you can be proud to practice in.

Choose the design from renderings

Building your own golf simulator may seem like you have more control over the design, but that isn’t necesarilly the case. We have an expert design team that will create renderings for your specific space. Once we create one that you love, we’ll get to work according to your schedule.

Hands-off installation and setup

With a professional company, you won’t have to do the heavy lifting – or any lifting. Once you have approved the design from the provided rendering, it’s up to the company to make it a reality for you. The process can be as hands-off as you want it to be.

Top-quality equipment and technology

Golf simulator companies are experts in the field and therefore only provide the best possible equipment for your situation and budget. We always keep up-to-date with the latest advancements in the industry and we pass that knowledge onto your build.

Comprehensive training and support

A home golf sim is way more than just a launch monitor and a mat. Once you’re completely satisfied with the work, we’ll run you through everything you need to know to manage and work your golf simulator however you want to.

Cons of hiring a golf simulator company

Pay for labor and design work

It’s no secret that hiring a professional golf simulator company is going to cost more than doing it on your own. Use this article’s pros and cons and your own research to determine what is best for you specific situation.