How to Build a Golf Course Bunker

Bunkers on a golf course increase the difficulty of the course. Building a bunker in your backyard gives you a wonderful practice aid to learn how to escape from sand bunkers when you play golf. How large, deep and wide to make the bunker is up to you.

Things You'll Need

• Sand
• Shovel
• Spray paint
• Landscape fabric

Instructions

1. Select where the bunker will be placed and make sure there is enough room around the bunker to play chip shots. It is a good idea to find an existing depression in the yard so there is less soil to shovel.

2. Decide on the shape and size of the bunker and outline the area with spray paint.

3. Dig out the bunker, making sure that the deepest part is in the middle, with a gentle slope up to the edges. How deep to make the bunker is up to you. If you want a bigger lip, then a deeper bunker is required.

4. Line the bunker with landscape fabric to keep weeds and grass from growing and to keep the sand clean.

5. Fill in the bunker with sand. Generally, it should be 4 to 6 inches in the deepest part and 2 inches around the edges.

Tips & Warnings

• Rake the sand smooth to create a nice playing surface.

• Check for underground pipes and wires before digging. Install safety nets to catch errant shots that might go into your neighbor's yard.

References

• 10 Steps to Renovate a Sand Bunker

Resources

• Remodeling Sand Bunkers on Your Course