Screens and enclosures are the safety infrastructure of your simulator. Impact screens serve double duty as projection surfaces and ball-stopping barriers for projector setups. Enclosures protect your walls, ceiling, and equipment from errant shots—because even good golfers occasionally hit shanks. These components don't generate the excitement of a new launch monitor, but they're essential for safe, worry-free practice. Skimping here means drywall repairs, damaged equipment, or worse. The good news is that quality options exist at every budget level, from premium full enclosures to effective DIY netting solutions. This guide covers impact screens for projector setups and enclosure options for all configurations.
If You Only Remember 3 Things
- Impact screens are mandatory for projector setups — Regular screens or painted walls can't stop golf balls
- Some enclosure is better than none — Even partial netting catches most errant shots
- DIY solutions work well — Golf barrier netting hung from hooks provides effective protection at low cost
Impact Screens
Needed for projector setups. Must absorb ball impact without bouncing. Size matches projector throw.
An impact screen serves two purposes: it's the projection surface for your image, and it must safely stop golf balls traveling at high speed.
Key features:
- Material: Typically heavy-duty vinyl or woven fabric
- Tensioning: Must be tight to prevent wrinkles and ball bounce-back
- Size: Match to your projector's image size (10–16 feet wide common)
What to look for:
- Minimal bounce-back (ball should drop, not ricochet)
- Smooth surface for clear image projection
- Reinforced edges for tensioning hardware
- Warranty against ball damage
Enclosures & Netting
Protect walls and ceiling from stray shots. Essential for full-swing setups. Partial enclosures work for tight budgets.
Even accurate golfers hit occasional shanks. Netting protects your room from damage—and gives you peace of mind to swing freely.
Options:
- Full enclosure: Surrounds hitting area on all sides and overhead (safest)
- Partial enclosure: Side and ceiling netting only (budget option)
- DIY netting: Golf barrier netting hung from ceiling hooks (lowest cost)
Enclosure Considerations
Frame vs. frameless:
- Frame systems provide structure and easy setup
- Frameless netting hangs from hooks or track (cheaper, more flexible)
- Frame systems look more professional; frameless is easier to remove
Material quality:
- Commercial-grade netting lasts longer and catches harder shots
- Lighter netting may sag or tear over time
- UV resistance matters if near windows
Decision Checklist
Before purchasing screens or enclosures:
- [ ] Determine if you're using projector or TV (impact screen only needed for projector)
- [ ] Measure the area you need to protect (full room vs. hitting zone)
- [ ] Decide between frame system or DIY netting
- [ ] Check ceiling attachment points (studs, joists)
- [ ] Plan for entry/exit from the hitting area
- [ ] Consider aesthetics if space is multi-purpose
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Using a projector without an impact screen Why it matters: Golf balls will destroy standard screens, painted walls, or drywall How to avoid: Always use a purpose-built impact screen for projector setups
Mistake: Leaving gaps in enclosure coverage Why it matters: Shanks find openings; one bad shot can damage equipment or walls How to avoid: Map your swing path and ensure full coverage of potential miss areas
Mistake: Under-tensioning the impact screen Why it matters: Loose screens wrinkle (bad image) and bounce balls back (safety hazard) How to avoid: Follow manufacturer tensioning instructions; re-tension periodically
Advanced: Installation and Materials
Impact screen installation:
- Frame-mounted screens require assembly and wall/ceiling attachment
- Tensioning systems (bungees, turnbuckles) keep the screen taut
- Leave 6–12 inches of clearance behind screen for ball deceleration
- Consider baffle material behind screen to further slow balls
DIY enclosure approach:
- Install eye hooks or track along ceiling and walls
- Hang commercial golf barrier netting using carabiners
- Overlap panels to eliminate gaps
- Weight bottom edges to prevent swing-through
Material specifications:
- Impact screens: 200–400gsm fabric weight typical
- Barrier netting: 3/4" to 1" mesh size (smaller catches more)
- Support: Ensure ceiling anchors hit studs or use appropriate drywall anchors
Multi-purpose room considerations:
- Removable enclosures allow space to serve other functions
- Track-mounted systems roll up when not in use
- Frameless DIY is easiest to take down temporarily
How This Affects Your Build
For projector setups, impact screen quality directly affects your viewing experience and safety. For all setups, enclosures provide peace of mind that lets you swing freely. Budget appropriately: a quality impact screen and basic enclosure run $400–$800 total; premium frame systems can exceed $2,000. The right investment depends on how much you value aesthetics and convenience versus budget.