Most of these show up after the drywall's already closed, when they're expensive to fix. Catch them on paper instead.
1. Treating Ceiling Height as a Simple Yes/No Measurement
A room being 9' or 10' tall doesn't automatically mean every golfer can safely swing a driver in it.
Why it matters: Golfer height, swing plane, hitting position, mat height, and ceiling obstructions all change how much real clearance you have — the number on the tape measure isn't the number that matters.
What to check instead: Before buying anything, take several controlled practice swings from the intended hitting position, using the longest club you plan to hit.
2. Choosing the Launch Monitor Before Planning the Room
The best launch monitor on paper isn't necessarily the best system for your specific space.
Why it matters: The room should determine the technology, not the other way around.
What to establish first:
- Available width, depth, and height (cm or ft/in)
- Right-handed only, or RH/LH use
- Permanent or retractable setup
- Ball-to-screen distance
- Available space behind the golfer
- Preferred software and budget
3. Forgetting the Space Behind the Impact Screen
A setup that looks fine with a wedge can behave very differently with a driver.
Why it matters: The screen needs enough space behind it to absorb the ball safely without hitting the wall. The required distance depends on screen tension, construction, ball speed, and the protection system — not one universal number.
What to check instead: Confirm the exact clearance with the screen manufacturer rather than assuming a standard distance.
4. Planning Only for the Golfer, Not for Spectators
A room can be large enough to swing in and still be unsafe for someone sitting behind or beside the player.
Why it matters: Seating, club storage, doors, stairs, and walkways all share the same space as the swing — plan around them from day one, not after the fact.
What to check instead: Map spectator seating and walkways into the layout before you finalize hitting position or frame dimensions.
5. Assuming the Hitting Position Can Be Perfectly Centered
In many residential rooms, a centered hitting position doesn't leave enough wall clearance.
Why it matters: A slight offset can be safer and more comfortable — but it affects screen alignment, projector placement, and whether both left- and right-handed golfers can use the setup.
What to check instead: Decide the offset early. It's a decision everything else in the room gets built around.
6. Selecting the Projector Too Late
Projector choice is connected to screen size, aspect ratio, image height, throw distance, mounting position, and the golfer's shadow.
Why it matters: I've seen otherwise excellent rooms compromised because the projector was treated as a separate purchase at the end.
What to check instead: Pick the projector alongside the screen and frame — not after the room is already built.
7. Spending the Full Budget on Visible Equipment
The launch monitor and projector are the exciting purchases, but they're not what makes a room pleasant and safe to actually use.
Why it matters: The hitting surface, side protection, ceiling protection, lighting, sound control, and installation details are what determine that.
What to check instead: A balanced system usually beats one premium component surrounded by compromises.
Not sure where your space lands on any of this? I'll come measure it and tell you straight — free, no pitch.
931-278-5630 | Cornerstone Golf TN