Golf Simulator Sheds give you a dedicated space to play virtual golf away from your house or garage. Plus, you are protected from the elements compared to an outdoor simulator. There are plenty of pre-made and DIY options available to create your own personal space.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to build your own golf simulator shed and all of the important factors you need to consider:
Planning out your location
The best materials to use
Key permits and regulations to follow
How to build the highest quality golf sim shed
The perfect dimensions for your golf shed
How to maintain it
If you want any other advice on how to create an awesome golfing shed, comment below and let us know.
What is a Golf Simulator Shed?
A golf simulator shed is a dedicated space built specifically for practicing golf indoors. It allows golfers to create a simulated golfing experience at home when they don’t have enough room inside their house.
The shed provides privacy and convenience, allowing individuals to improve their golf swing and game without visiting a golf course or driving range.
Factors to Consider
When building a golf simulator shed, there are several factors to consider, such as:
internal and external size of the shed
required height for swinging the golf club
minimum width
minimum length for the ball to fly and collide with the impact screen
Additionally, obtaining planning permission and adhering to specific regulations may be necessary. A golf simulator shed allows golf enthusiasts to work on their skills in a comfortable and functional space.
Golf Simulator Shed vs Garage vs Basement
Building a dedicated golf sim shed has a number of advantages over building your simulator in your garage or basement:
You don’t have to use shared space up with your golf equipment.
You have a dedicated spot for storing all of your golf clubs and other accessories.
You can customize your shed completely for golf and make it fun.
You have a more private space to play virtual golf in.
Why You Should Build a Golf Simular Shed
A golf shed is the ultimate man cave by offering golf enthusiasts a dedicated space to practice their game indoors. The shed is designed for a golf simulator setup, where golfers hit golf balls into a screen or projection surface, receiving accurate feedback on their performance.
With customizable options and the ability to serve multiple purposes, such as a home office, gym, or art studio, a golf simulator shed becomes the ultimate man cave for golf lovers.
Benefits of a Golf Simulator Shed
Convenience and Year-Round Practice
One of the main benefits of a golf simulator shed is the convenience of practicing your golf game anytime without needing to visit an actual golf course or driving range. It eliminates the need to travel away from your house, allowing for more frequent and convenient practice sessions.
If you construct the shed with a heater and enough insulation, you can use it year-round if you live in a colder climate. This is one of the most significant benefits and saves money from renting an indoor hitting bay.
Improved Game Performance
Improved performance is another critical benefit of having a golf simulator shed. The technology in a golf simulator provides golfers with accurate data to analyze and dissect their swing, including speed, angle, trajectory, and other factors.
This data helps identify areas for improvement and provides targeted feedback to help golfers enhance their technique and overall performance.
With the ability to practice anytime in a dedicated space, golfers can work on specific aspects of their game and make adjustments more efficiently, leading to noticeable improvements in their golf skills.
Entertainment and Socializing
Many golfers enjoy the game of golf due to the entertainment and socializing factor. The same can be said for a hitting area inside of your shed. If you build the shed big enough, you can host friends to come over and socialize while playing indoor golf.
This is a vital benefit of a home golf simulator and costs much less than going out and renting a hitting bay.
Planning Your Golf Simulator Shed
Location, Location, Location
The location is crucial when building a golf simulator shed in your backyard. Choosing a suitable location ensures that you have enough space to accommodate the shed’s dimensions and allows for proper swing space inside.
Additionally, selecting a location with easy access to power and lighting sources is essential for setting up and operating the simulator effectively.
Security is another aspect to consider, as a well-placed shed can help protect your valuable equipment. Putting the shed in a more shaded area of your property would also provide it some shade and semi-protect it from the elements of rain or snow to protect the longevity of the materials.
Weather can harm your materials, so having it underneath some trees would ensure extra security.
Power and Internet: The Lifelines of Your Golf Simulator Shed
It is no secret that everything to do with a golf simulator runs on power. Ensuring your golf shed is located close to a power source is crucial when planning your building.
Another thing to remember is that you will require the internet to run your golf simulator equipment through the computer or launch monitor.
Having extra space in the shed for a router or modem is extremely important to ensure everything runs smoothly without hiccups. This would ensure the best internet connection for your golf shed.
Climate Control: Heating and Ventilation Considerations
Climate control is essential when planning to build a golf simulator shed. Having proper heating and ventilation is crucial for the golfer’s comfort and the equipment’s longevity.
Maintaining a comfortable environment ensures that the golfer can practice without discomfort, regardless of the external weather conditions.
The proper climate control measures protect the equipment from damage caused by extreme temperatures or excessive moisture. Controlling the climate can create an ideal environment for practicing golf year-round, allowing consistent training and improved performance.
Lighting: Getting It Just Right
Proper lighting is crucial when building a golf shed for several reasons. Firstly, it allows the golfer to see what they do during gameplay, ensuring a clear view of the virtual course and accurate shot analysis.
However, it is essential to strike a balance, as excessive light can create glare on the screen and interfere with the simulation experience.
Secondly, adequate lighting is necessary for the launch monitor and hitting screen to work correctly, providing accurate feedback on swing mechanics and shot evaluation.
Lastly, proper lighting contributes to the simulator shed’s overall ambiance and visual appeal, enhancing the golfer’s immersive experience.
What are the Ideal Dimensions for Your Golf Simulator Shed?
Shed Height: The Overhead Space You’ll Need
When planning to build a golf simulator shed, it is essential to consider the ideal height for the internal dimensions.
The minimum interior ceiling height you will want for a golf simulator is 9 feet. However, if you’re taller, it is recommended to have a ceiling height of at least 10.5 feet to ensure you can comfortably swing a driver.
The size of the shed’s eaves should also be considered, affecting the overall internal space and comfort. That said, you will likely want the height of the shed to be a few feet taller than the projector screen. We recommend going anywhere 10 feet and higher to ensure a comfortable hitting area.
Shed Width: Room for Swinging
When determining the ideal width for a golf shed, it is recommended to have a minimum room width of 15 feet to allow for a central aimpoint. However, it is feasible to make golf swings in a shed that is 10 feet wide.
Our ideal width range for a golf simulator shed is between 14-16 feet, which gives you the most comfort. This width provides enough space for a comfortable swing when hitting golf balls. It also allows for multiple people to be inside the shed simultaneously.
Shed Length: Accounting for Ball Flight
When determining the ideal length for a golf shed, it is recommended to have a minimum room length of 12 feet. However, for a more comfortable experience, we recommend building a shed that is 18 feet in length. If you have a launch monitor that sits behind you while you swing, you will need 7-feet from the monitor to your golf ball and 6 feet from your ball to the next.
This length allows for a full swing and collision with the impact screen, ensuring that you have enough space to practice your golf shots effectively. This also ensures that the ball can safely contact the impact screen and not bounce off the walls, potentially causing damage.
Consider putting an enclosure around the impact screen, which would mitigate the golf ball bouncing around in the shed.
Legalities and Paperwork of Building a Golf Sim Shed
Understanding the Importance of Ordinances
When planning on building a golf shed on your property, it is crucial to understand the importance of ordinances and planning permission requirements. Larger sheds may require formal approval, so checking your area’s rules and regulations is essential.
Obtaining planning permission for a golf simulator shed can be challenging due to the size and potential impact on neighbors. Therefore, it is crucial to comply with local ordinances and obtain the necessary permits before starting construction.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your golf simulator shed is built in compliance with the regulations and avoid any legal issues in the future.
Planning Permissions in the UK
According to UK regulations, sheds, cabins, and outbuildings are generally considered permitted development and can be built without formal approval. This would include a golf shed.
However, specific conditions need to be met to qualify as permitted development.
For instance, the shed cannot be higher than 8 feet if the shed is within 2 meters of the boundary of a property. If your shed exceeds these limits, you may need to make a formal planning application.
Additionally, requiring a higher ceiling height, such as 10 feet for swinging a driver, may necessitate formal planning permission. It is recommended to consult the specific rules and regulations in your area to ensure compliance and avoid any legal issues in the future.
Planning Permissions in the US and Elsewhere
Planning Permissions in the US and elsewhere usually vary by state and province. It is best to check with your local authorities before building your shed to ensure everything is up to code and constructed correctly.
You wouldn’t want to start building the shed and then learn halfway through that the height or width is not to code.
The Construction Phase: Building Your Golf Simulator Shed
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: Pros and Cons
When building your golf shed, there are pros and cons to consider when deciding between a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach or hiring a professional.
Pros of doing it yourself include:
Cost savings.
The ability to make renovations over time.
The opportunity to personalize and improve the setup.
However, DIY has cons, such as safety concerns, extensive product research, the technical knowledge required, hours of manual labor, and potentially inferior craftsmanship and design.
Hiring a professional company to build your golf shed offers a professional, clean look, the opportunity to choose the design from renderings, and a hands-off installation and setup process. Hiring a professional ensures the shed is constructed safely and to code, which is especially important for structural integrity.
Professionals are also likely to use higher-quality materials compared to DIY shed kits. The cons to hiring a professional are that they will be much more expensive due to paying for the labor involved.
Material Choices
When deciding to build a golf shed, several material choices exist. The choice of materials will affect the shed’s durability, appearance, and overall cost.
Some popular material options for building a golf simulator shed include:
Wood: Wood is a common choice for shed construction due to its natural beauty and versatility. It can be easily customized and provides sound insulation. However, it requires regular maintenance to prevent rot and decay.
Metal: Metal sheds are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide excellent security. However, they may offer different aesthetic appeal than wood sheds.
PVC/Plastic: PVC or plastic sheds are lightweight, affordable, and require minimal maintenance. They are resistant to rot, rust, and insects. However, they may not be as sturdy as wood or metal sheds.
Composite Materials: Composite materials like composite wood or vinyl offer durability and low maintenance. They are resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. However, they can be more expensive than other options.
The choice of material will depend on factors such as budget, personal preference, desired aesthetic, and the shed’s intended use.
Flooring
When deciding on flooring choices for a golf shed, several options exist.
One popular choice is carpet or turf, which provides a realistic golfing experience and helps with ball roll and bounce. Rubber flooring is another option, offering durability and shock absorption.
Vinyl or laminate flooring can also be considered, as they are easy to clean and maintain. Vinyl is also very durable, and scratches do not appear as much as other options.
It depends on how durable you want the floor and how nice you want the inside of the shed to look.
Budgeting For Your Golf Simulator Shed
Understanding the Initial Costs
When budgeting for a golf shed, it is crucial to consider the initial costs involved. Not only do you have to budget for the cost of materials to build the shed itself, but also for the entire golf simulator setup.
The cost of building a shed can vary depending on size, materials, and features. Golf simulators are available with prices starting at $500 upwards to as much as $15,000 for complete setups. You must buy the launch monitors, hitting mat, impact screen, and more.
You may also have to upgrade your computer to something that can handle the golf simulator software. This adds up fairly quickly, so you must be diligent when planning the shed to see if it makes sense.
Recurring Maintenance Costs
Recurring maintenance costs for a golf shed can vary depending on several factors. Some potential maintenance costs to consider include the following:
Screen Replacement: Over time, the screen used for the simulator may wear out or get damaged from repeated ball impact. The screen replacement cost can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the quality and type of screen.
Sensor Calibration: The sensors used in the simulator setup may require periodic calibration to ensure accurate measurements. This may involve professional assistance and could incur additional costs.
Software Updates: Golf simulator software often receives regular updates to improve performance and add new features. Some updates may be free, while others require a subscription or one-time payment.
Equipment Maintenance: The simulator components, such as the projector, sensors, and computer, may require regular cleaning, servicing, or replacement if they malfunction or become outdated.
Energy Costs: Running a simulator shed will require electricity for lighting, climate control, powering the simulator equipment, and investigating the ongoing energy costs when budgeting the shed is essential.
It’s worth noting that the frequency and extent of maintenance costs can vary depending on the quality of the equipment, the usage intensity, and individual circumstances.
Using and Maintaining Your Golf Shed
How To Get The Most Out of Your Simulator Experience
The key to getting the most out of your simulator experience is to create a comfortable and immersive environment that allows you to practice your golf skills and enjoy the game to its fullest. Having something that you designed and created is also great.
You can customize the setup exactly as you want, including the flooring and simulator setup. Hitting golf balls and socializing with friends in a space that is not a garage or part of your house is a great feeling, and if you are spending the money for it, you should take advantage as much as you can.
Setting Achievable Goals and Tracking Progress
Setting achievable goals and tracking progress is one of the ideal things about having a golf shed with a simulator. Setting goals will help identify flaws in your golf swing, and practicing will help address those flaws. If you select a regular practice schedule, you can ensure your goals will be met.
Determine how often you want to practice and track your progress as you go. After each practice session, you can analyze the data from the simulator and identify areas where you are making progress and areas which need work.
You can also take this information and seek professional help from golf instructors.
Maintaining Your Shed and Equipment for Optimal Longevity
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal longevity and performance of your golf shed and equipment.
Here are some critical tips to consider:
Climate control: Properly maintain your climate control systems, such as air conditioning and heating, to ensure a consistent and comfortable environment for your golf simulator. Regularly clean and replace air filters to maximize efficiency and prevent dust buildup that can affect equipment performance.
Shed maintenance: Conduct routine inspections of the shed structure, checking for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Repair or replace any damaged components promptly to prevent further deterioration. Keep the shed clean and free from debris to avoid potential hazards or damage to equipment.
Electrical supply: Ensure the power supply is adequate for your equipment’s needs. Regularly check the wiring, outlets, and connections for any signs of damage or wear. Consider using surge protectors to safeguard your equipment from power surges or electrical issues.
Equipment care: Clean and maintain your golf simulator equipment regularly. Wipe screens, sensors, and projectors with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove dust or smudges. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance to prevent damage or performance issues.
Storage and protection: When not in use, store your golf simulator equipment in a safe and secure location within the shed to protect it from dust, moisture, and potential damage. Consider using protective covers or cases for added protection. We also recommend having a lock on the door of the shed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Simulator Sheds (FAQs)
What are the Best Materials for a Golf Simulator Shed?
The materials for a golf simulator shed will depend on your budget, location, and aesthetic preferences. However, a standard golf simulator shed is typically constructed from wood for the structure, insulation for temperature control, drywall for the interior walls, and commercial-grade carpet for the flooring.
Remember to include materials for the golf simulator itself, such as a high-quality projector, impact screen, golf mat, and launch monitor.
How Much Space Do I Need to Build a Golf Simulator Shed?
The space required to build a golf simulator shed can vary, but a general guideline is to have a room that’s at least 10 feet wide, 15 feet long, and 10 feet high. This ensures you have enough space for a full swing with any club without any restrictions, and it allows the simulator to accurately track your shots.
What’s the Estimated Cost to Build a Golf Simulator Shed?
The total cost can vary widely based on your chosen materials and golf simulator system, but typically, it can range from $5,000 to over $50,000.
Do I Need Planning Permission to Build a Golf Simulator Shed?
In many regions, you won’t need planning permission for a shed, but always check your local building codes and HOA rules to be sure.
Can I Use My Golf Simulator Shed in Any Weather?
Yes, the beauty of a golf simulator shed is that you can use it to play golf in any weather, day or night.
Can I Customize My Golf Simulator Shed Interior?
Absolutely, from the color of the walls to the type of flooring, you can customize your shed’s interior to reflect your personal style.
Is a Golf Simulator Shed a Good Investment?
Yes, besides providing endless entertainment, a golf simulator shed can also increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers.
