Maintaining turf ‘easier than regular lawns’

While artificial turf will cost more upfront than grass, ranging from $5.49 to approximately $15 per square foot, Kwiatkowski points out that it will also keep the area slightly cooler, as the heat doesn’t reflect off of it.

“It’s going to last for years and years,” says Kwiatkowski. “It’s going to provide years of enjoyment. The durability is pretty substantial if it’s taken care of properly. You just blow it off in the spring with a leaf blower to clean it up and maybe wash it in the spring. The maintenance is easier than regular lawns, and there are also companies that will a supply a maintenance service, but generally the homeowner can do it very easily.”

There are several options for those interested in installing a putting green. Burnco sells — but does not install — prefabricated kits that come in two sizes: 10 feet by 13 feet, or 20 feet by 13 feet. The smaller kit costs just under $2,000, while the larger size retails for $2,700. The installation process is similar to laying paving stones, although the base must be prepped properly to ensure stability.

SWEET SPOT

The Hodges are no longer puttering around their house waiting for their “yardlift” to be completed, and once Mercier and his team completed the transformation they were eager to get out and hone their short game skills.

“Marc laid it down and Rob just got out his putter out,” said Glenda, who expects that her golf game will show some improvement when she meets up with her putting league colleagues next spring. “Marc helped us redesign our backyard to complement our house. The stream lights up, the putting holes light up. This was beyond our expectations, and we set the bar high.”