Retractable Screen or Fixed Frame That Opens Up

[awalk21]

I'm building a simulator in my garage and am currently trying to decide between a gungho retractable screen that comes down from the ceiling or building a fixed frame + a floor that hinges down. Budget not really an issue, but I do have to get a car in and out. A few details:

• Screen size is going to be 14x9
• Setup is in a back corner, so I only need the screen plus 3-4 feet of shank protection for right-handed players
• I like the idea of a fixed frame with a full floor that hinges down, but obviously that would require me to essentially build a sub-floor and rig up some sort of hinge / lifting system
• On the other hand, dropping a screen down, rolling out a carpet, and putting a mat down seems like a potentially easier option

Any thoughts or relevant experiences one way or the other?

[Slow-Jean]

I had a similar challenge when I put sim together. I did hinged doors from 1/2 inch EMT attached to the 1 inch EMT frame. Covered the door frames with black polypropylene landscaping ground covering. It provides good side protection and takes no room when folded. I suspended the same tarp for ceiling protection.

[PohlarBeer]

Is your frame connected to the overhead storage at all? And it looks like there's a support structure behind the screen, is that correct? I'm thinking about building something similar for my garage. Anything you'd do differently in hindsight?

[ddub40502]

I did a clamshell type fold up with 1" EMT and some PVC folding elbows. They top of the enclosure disconnects and fold flat.

[awalk21]

Totally makes sense. I'm not as worried about sidewall protection, but am envisioning something with hinges at the bottom so I can essentially open it up, fold the floor down, and be ready to go. I seem to recall seeing a picture of something like that on here, but can't locate it...of course.

[richerod]

What did you decide on doing? Wondering if you have any pics?

[ontheteebox]

Slow-Jean. Me too. Now that you have had it up for a few months, any thoughts on your design? I might be going down this same road in the garage.

[ShooterMcGav]

I would say a retractable screen would be a wiser choice. I got mine from The SportScreen https://thesportscreen.com/golf