Two proven build paths on concrete or indoors

Option 1: Modular panel base for full-depth cups

Interlocking panels create a level, forgiving sub-base and space for regulation cups without coring the slab. This path is clean, fast, and fully reversible. It is ideal for garages, basements, studios, or commercial spaces.

  • Panel thickness: about 1 to 1.5 inches
  • Cup depth: full depth using panel cavities or routed pockets
  • Portability: high
  • Noise reduction: good due to the air gap and panel design

Option 2: Shock pad over slab for quick installs

A resilient pad underlayment smooths minor slab variations and adds comfort. Use shallow cups, drop-in targets, or low-profile cup sleeves. This is a low-build-height solution with minimal parts.

  • Pad thickness: 8 to 12 mm typical
  • Cup options: shallow cup sleeves or drop-in targets
  • Portability: moderate to high depending on adhesion method

Materials and spec basics

  • Putting turf: low pile 0.5 to 1.25 inch, dense stitch for true roll
  • Infill: clean, dry silica sand for speed tuning about 0.75 to 1.5 pounds per square foot
  • Base layer: modular panels or shock pad over clean, level concrete
  • Seam system: 8 to 12 inch seam tape with turf adhesive
  • Perimeter: adhesive, tape, or transition trim; leave a small expansion gap at walls
  • Cups and flags: full-depth cups with panels or shallow sleeves with pads

Step-by-step install on concrete

  1. Prep the slab: scrape high spots, vacuum dust, and confirm the surface is dry and within flatness tolerance. Seal or mitigate moisture if needed.
  2. Lay the base: interlock panels or roll out shock pad with tight seams.
  3. Dry-fit turf: align tuft direction, let it relax flat, and trim to the layout.
  4. Seam: butt factory edges, place seam tape centered, apply adhesive, and close the joint. Brush fibers across the seam.
  5. Perimeter set: use low VOC turf adhesive for permanent installs or turf tape for semi-permanent. Maintain a clean expansion gap at rigid edges.
  6. Cut cups: mark locations, cut clean circles, set sleeves or full cups as your base allows, and verify flush, rattle-free fit.
  7. Infill and brush: add sand in light passes, power-broom or stiff-brush, then putt-test and tune speed.

Tuning speed and realism

  • Speed control: more sand infill raises speed and firmness; less infill slows the roll.
  • Target range: indoor greens commonly run near 9 to 11 on a stimp-style read depending on turf and infill.
  • True roll: keep fibers upright with brushing and periodic light top-offs of sand.

Cup choices on a slab

  • Full-depth cups without drilling: use modular panels that accept cup cavities.
  • Shallow cups: use low-profile sleeves or drop-in targets when build height is limited.
  • Avoid coring concrete unless you are committed to a permanent layout and local code allows it.

Adhesion and seams

  • Permanent: low VOC polyurethane turf adhesive at seams and perimeter.
  • Semi-permanent: double-sided turf tape for seams and edges; add non-slip underlay in high-traffic areas.
  • Seam quality: use factory edges, align tuft grain, and roll the joint for a tight, invisible seam.

Moisture, acoustics, and subfloor checks

  • Moisture: test the slab and use a vapor barrier or sealer if required by site conditions.
  • Sound: panels and pads soften footfall noise compared to turf on bare concrete.
  • Flatness: fill divots and grind high spots to keep putts true and seams tight.

Maintenance

  • Routine: vacuum or sweep, then brush against grain to lift fibers.
  • Spots: dab with mild detergent and water. Avoid harsh solvents.
  • Longevity: keep heavy furniture off seams and rotate practice zones to even wear.

Costs and timelines

  • DIY materials: varies with size and base choice. Panels cost more than pads but deliver full-depth cups and easy reconfiguration.
  • Pro install: adds layout design, precision seaming, and speed tuning. Labor varies by complexity, cut count, and access.
  • Time: a small room-size green often finishes in 1 to 2 days once materials are on site.

When panels win over drilling

Panels give you regulation cup depth, cleaner install, and future flexibility. Choose coring only when you need permanent concrete cups and accept no layout changes.

Quick spec checklist

  • Base: modular panels or 8 to 12 mm shock pad
  • Turf: 0.5 to 1.25 inch tight-knit putting turf
  • Infill: 0.75 to 1.5 pounds per square foot silica sand
  • Cups: full-depth with panels or shallow sleeves with pads
  • Seams: seam tape plus adhesive, factory edges preferred
  • Perimeter: adhesive or tape, leave expansion gap

Why Artificial shines indoors

Artificial putting turf delivers consistent roll, low upkeep, and year-round practice without mess or moisture concerns. Build it once and enjoy reliable performance in any room.