No room in the house? A backyard shed or outbuilding can become a dedicated golf simulator bay. You get to size the building around the swing instead of squeezing a swing into an existing room. Plan these things before you build or buy one.
Size the shed around the swing
Start with the same three measurements as any simulator room, measured on the inside, after insulation and wall finishes:
- Ceiling height: about 9 feet for most adults, about 10 feet to be comfortable. Many standard sheds have lower walls, so look for taller sidewalls or a design with a high interior ceiling.
- Width: about 10 to 11 feet for one-sided hitting, about 12 to 14 feet if righties and lefties will share.
- Depth: about 14 to 17 feet for side camera or overhead launch monitors, more for rear radar units.
Enter your planned interior dimensions in the room planner before you order a shed. It’s much cheaper to change a plan than a building.
Permits and rules
Many towns limit shed size and height, require permits above a certain footprint, and set rules on how close a building can be to property lines. Homeowners associations may add their own rules. Check with your local building department and HOA before you buy.
Power, insulation and climate
- Power: a projector, computer and launch monitor need reliable outlets. Running power to an outbuilding is a job for a licensed electrician and usually needs a permit.
- Insulation: makes the space usable in winter and summer and protects electronics from temperature swings.
- Heating and cooling: a small heater or mini-split can turn the shed into a year-round bay. Check each product’s operating temperature range.
- Humidity: keep the space dry to protect the projector, computer and screen.
Floor, light and security
A level, solid floor gives your hitting mat and launch monitor a stable base. Few or covered windows help the projected image. Because the equipment is valuable and outside the house, consider good locks and check whether your homeowners insurance covers equipment kept in an outbuilding.
Next step
Plan the interior first, then pick the building. Run your dimensions through the room planner to see the bay layout and the largest screen that fits.
This is general planning information. Building codes, permits and product requirements vary, so confirm with your local building department and each manufacturer.