Garage Sim Build Progression

[BlackTees]

I would like to thank everyone on this site who has directly helped by answering my questions and those who have posted their sim build experiences. I have spent hours combing through this site and was overwhelmed with the amount of information available. It is my sincere hope that I can help someone by posting my experience or answering any questions.
My garage dimensions 12’W x 10’H x 25’D, picture #1 is version 1 of my Sim. Purchased SkyTrak, Net Return Pro V2 with side nets, Pro Turf mat, replaced with Quattro as my hitting mat, Dell gaming computer and 40” Smart TV to project. This picture also shows the first move in my Sim progression, moving from overhead door opener to side mount. This allowed me to reverse the hitting area providing more space behind for chairs/golf bags picture #2. The next issue I had to overcome was the window near the net area. I did not want to lose access to the window but still needed to protect it from errant shots. Picture #3 shows my “barn door” solution, ¾ inch plywood using a barnwood slide door track from Home Depot. Removed the overhead heater and replaced with new unit away from hitting area. Replaced lighting with cans on dimmer, added outlet for ceiling mounted projector and ran HDMI cables through ceiling Picture #4.
Now I am ready for Sim Version 2.0
Carl’s DIY enclosure 8.5’H x 10’W x 5’D with Premium screen, added 2” King memory foam topper behind screen at hitting area (Pic #5), Optoma GT1080HDR projector, Chief Mini Elite Universal mount kit. I wanted to keep the pro turf mat as a putting matt but wanted a finished floor look, so I outlined with Fescue Multipurpose Turf from Home Depot. I then finished off the walls with Peaks tarps using their PVC Tracks.

[James Spratke]

Very nice! How did you like the net return pro? I am going to be getting one myself.

[BlackTees]

It was a great product. Bought in in January and used it a bunch during the winter and Covid lockdown. It didn't show any signs of wear at the point of contact. The ball cam back to you just as advertised.

[JoeBlowGolfer]

Looks fantastic!

[BlackTees]

Thanks Joe - and thanks for all your help with the projector mount location. you were correct doesn't come close to swing paths. I did miscalculate on the mount tube, with it at maximum extension I can't fill the screen top and have the gap at the bottom. So the 10 inch image gap is on the top. Just a nit from a self proclaimed perfectionist.

[JoeBlowGolfer]

Really does look great. Maybe take a piece of black fabric and cover the blank area of the screen at the top. Will give it a nice finished look. Just need to secure it in such a way that if it takes hits, it doesn't come off.

[fortysixandtwo]

How did you attach the memory foam topper?

[BlackTees]

I used tarp clips and ball bungie cords. I was concerned about the impact tearing the foam so I used Gorilla Brand Duct Tape to build up the area where the tarp clips attached. So far no issues and it is holding. I didn't stretch it tight so it had some play at impact. I am going to add black moving blankets using the same set up more for the projection image than bounce back but it will be added support.

[BlackTees]

Updated Pics. After I looked at the picture of the posted image I saw that the cords holding the foam pad were visible. I installed dark colored moving blankets behind the foam to darken the screen backdrop. As you can see it really has improved the image and darkened the 10" gap at the top so it blends in with the enclosure. In addition, it added to the deadening of the impact and sound. Unfortunately, I didn't take a picture of the install before I put the screen back up. Pic #1 is before and Pic #2 is after

[Stetson]

Great illustration on how important the area behind the screen is for image quality.

[BlackTees]

Thanks Stetson, I read a few posts where the moving blankets put a stain on screens from impact so I was concerned. I think installing them behind the foam topper will keep this from happening.

[Foreman33]

Looks great! Some questions for you, if you don't mind.

1) How was working with Carl's. I'd like to order through them and am looking for a contact.
2) How do you like the Optima GT1080HDR? That throw works well for me. Seems like good value?

[BlackTees]

Thanks Foreman33 - yes, I had a good experience with Carl's my contact was Britany. She was very helpful making sure my dimensions were what I wanted since I did a custom size. I don't have any other projector experience to compare the Optima GT1080HDR but I really like the quality of the projection. The main reason I went with this was for the short throw mounting location. My hitting area is slightly off center screen and was concerned about my swing path. I didn't want to be too far back from the enclosure causing issues with high shot trajectory. The throw calculations mounted it a little over 6' from my screen. I am able to have my SkyTrak dot about 11' from my screen with no issues. I looked at the 1090 but was beyond my budget.