Golf Simulator Net Enclosure Guide 2026

Why You Need an Enclosure

A golf simulator impact screen stops the ball and displays the projected image, but it does not protect your walls and ceiling from errant shots that miss the screen or ricochets. A net enclosure surrounds the hitting area, catching stray shots and protecting the room. For most residential setups, the question is not whether to have a net enclosure, but how complete it needs to be.

Impact Screen vs Side Nets

The impact screen is the main screen where you aim. It is purpose-built for golf simulator use: tight woven material that stops a golf ball and displays a projected image clearly. Side barrier nets are the netting on the left and right (and sometimes above) the hitting area that catch shots that miss the screen or fly off at an angle. Impact screens alone are not sufficient protection -- a mishit can easily travel to the side and damage walls or equipment.

Net Size and Bay Dimensions

The standard recommendation for a home golf simulator bay: minimum 10 feet wide, 9 feet tall, and 15 feet deep from screen to hitting position. A net enclosure should cover the full width and height of the bay. Side barrier nets typically go from floor to ceiling on both sides. If your bay is wider than 10 feet, extend the side netting accordingly. The hitting position should be centered in the width to give equal net coverage on both sides.

Net Materials

Golf nets are typically made from nylon or polyethylene, rated by strand thickness and mesh size. For golf simulator use: look for a net rated for golf ball impact (not just practice nets designed for chip shots). A strand thickness of #36 or higher and a 1-inch mesh is standard for indoor simulator use. Thicker strands last longer but are heavier. Most indoor simulator-specific nets are designed for ball speeds up to 150+ mph driver shots.

Frame Options

PVC pipe frames (1.5-2 inch PVC): cheap, lightweight, but flex under impact and are not as stable for tall bays. Steel conduit: more rigid, heavier, better for permanent setups. Commercial simulator enclosure kits (Golftec, The Net Return, Carl's Place): come with purpose-built frames and nets sized for simulator use. These cost more than DIY but are easier to install and more reliable. For permanent residential setups, a commercial enclosure kit is worth the investment over building from scratch.