Like many of you, getting started on the simulator build is almost overwhelming due to the number of options variable to consider. Although I may seem a bit incoherent, believe me when I say I have done a ton of research, lurking, talking with others who have done this, etc.
I am starting my questions with the actual area where I am going to build the simulator as I think it may dictate some of the other variables (i.e. trackman vs. QuadGC vs. True, etc.). As background, I live in Southern California (i.e. no basement) and the purpose for the simulator is almost exclusively for my use only mainly for practice (i.e. do not plan on having other people over to play virtual golf courses). I have a couple options below for potential areas to build and am soliciting feedback on what is possible.
Option #1 - a relatively unused and self-contained room that measures 13 x 18 with a 9' ceiling - pros is that the room is totally unused right now, cons are the size
Option #2 - room that is currently a second living room that is lightly used that measures 25 x 19 with 9' ceilings - pros are it is lightly used, cons are it is very visible and would require some negotiations with my wife
Option #3 - room that is currently the primary living room that would be moved to the room in option #2 - measures 25x32 with 12' ceilings - pros are the size and higher ceilings, cons are it would be disruptive and require substantial negotiations with my wife
On options #2 and #3 I am thinking the simulator may not take the entire room, but have not seen any great options that really minimize the footprint of the simulator when it is not being used (i.e. screen rolls up into the ceiling, netting / sidewalls of simulator easily taken down, etc.), but if someone has suggestions it would make option #3 more plausible.
I have done enough lurking / research to have some opinions on the three options above, but would greatly like some feedback from the forum. A fourth option that I have not been able to find much info to help me is the possibility for putting the simulator in an outdoor living area. I am probably not going to explain this well, but many people in Southern California have covered patios by their pools that essentially function as a living area (i.e. somewhat enclosed, large entertainment center / big screen televisions, kitchen / bar area, etc.). We are going to be building a deck off our second story that will create such a space below by our pool. The weather can get hot in the summer (i.e. 90 - 100) and relatively cool in the winter (highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s), but there are some options to enclose and regulate the temperature.
Primary question is this even an option. I have to think lighting would be a challenge, but not insurmountable. The space is not designed right now so I have flexibility on what could be built. Any feedback is hugely appreciated and I am sure I will be coming back with more questions. I typically try to find relevant information by searching the forums and all over the internet so know that I try to find answers before posting. Thanks to all the forum members who have unknowingly been a huge help just getting to this point .
quick edit - forgot to mention that I will be doing most of the install work. I have redone several rooms taking them down to studs and joists with plumbing and very light electrical work (i.e. I am comfortable adding a circuit / opening a wall / pulling wires). I am trying to keep an potential remodel work to a minimum, but can reconfigure if necessary.
I am starting my questions with the actual area where I am going to build the simulator as I think it may dictate some of the other variables (i.e. trackman vs. QuadGC vs. True, etc.). As background, I live in Southern California (i.e. no basement) and the purpose for the simulator is almost exclusively for my use only mainly for practice (i.e. do not plan on having other people over to play virtual golf courses). I have a couple options below for potential areas to build and am soliciting feedback on what is possible.
Option #1 - a relatively unused and self-contained room that measures 13 x 18 with a 9' ceiling - pros is that the room is totally unused right now, cons are the size
Option #2 - room that is currently a second living room that is lightly used that measures 25 x 19 with 9' ceilings - pros are it is lightly used, cons are it is very visible and would require some negotiations with my wife
Option #3 - room that is currently the primary living room that would be moved to the room in option #2 - measures 25x32 with 12' ceilings - pros are the size and higher ceilings, cons are it would be disruptive and require substantial negotiations with my wife
On options #2 and #3 I am thinking the simulator may not take the entire room, but have not seen any great options that really minimize the footprint of the simulator when it is not being used (i.e. screen rolls up into the ceiling, netting / sidewalls of simulator easily taken down, etc.), but if someone has suggestions it would make option #3 more plausible.
I have done enough lurking / research to have some opinions on the three options above, but would greatly like some feedback from the forum. A fourth option that I have not been able to find much info to help me is the possibility for putting the simulator in an outdoor living area. I am probably not going to explain this well, but many people in Southern California have covered patios by their pools that essentially function as a living area (i.e. somewhat enclosed, large entertainment center / big screen televisions, kitchen / bar area, etc.). We are going to be building a deck off our second story that will create such a space below by our pool. The weather can get hot in the summer (i.e. 90 - 100) and relatively cool in the winter (highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s), but there are some options to enclose and regulate the temperature.
Primary question is this even an option. I have to think lighting would be a challenge, but not insurmountable. The space is not designed right now so I have flexibility on what could be built. Any feedback is hugely appreciated and I am sure I will be coming back with more questions. I typically try to find relevant information by searching the forums and all over the internet so know that I try to find answers before posting. Thanks to all the forum members who have unknowingly been a huge help just getting to this point .
quick edit - forgot to mention that I will be doing most of the install work. I have redone several rooms taking them down to studs and joists with plumbing and very light electrical work (i.e. I am comfortable adding a circuit / opening a wall / pulling wires). I am trying to keep an potential remodel work to a minimum, but can reconfigure if necessary.
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