Making the right decision by Silver Partner Better Billy Bunker

As with all advances in technology, there are good solutions and not so good solutions. Certainly, there has been no shortage of companies entering the golf market with the promise of being “the next best thing”.

It is therefore understandable that architects may be reluctant to give advice to clubs on which product to install. On occasion, an architect may have some experience with a particular method which he may specify based on familiarity. However, is this always the best thing for the client? Having all facts on various liner products and the science upon which they are based may, in fact, lead to superior results.

When examining which construction method will prove most beneficial to the client, a number of questions are worth asking:

• How long has the method been used in a golf course application?
• What length of warranty does a method carry?
• Who carries out the installation and what experience do they have in the golf industry?
• What scientific / laboratory tests are required prior to installation (i.e. material compatibility to ensure bridging, column testing for recommended sand depth, etc.)
• What percolation rates are achieved – specifically lateral percolation?
• What is the desired end-result for playability and ongoing maintenance?
• Are materials readily available?
• How long does the installation take and what does the entire process entail?
• What restrictions apply during application?
• What is the initial capital cost versus return on investment?
• How will the method ensure that an architect’s design intent is upheld for years to come?
• How will the golf agronomy staff maintain these areas and how will they and golfers be educated on new practices?
• Which facilities have utilized the method around the world and what have their experiences been?

So many questions!!

Perhaps the best, and certainly the safest way, for anyone giving recommendations on these products is to trial them in local conditions. This will allow a course to draw direct comparisons with quantitative as well as qualitative conclusions. Promises in performance continue to grow almost as quickly as the number of bunker construction companies. For instance, “Product A” will allow you to design steeper faced Bunkers as the sand will stay in place with our product! Simply not true. One need only refer to Sir Isaac Newton and measure the angle of repose of the chosen bunker sand which will accurately identify the limitation of design.

To aid a client in making the right decision, one must ask the right questions. Better Billy Bunker continues to give sound, honest advice to many of the world’s top golf courses and we are happy to provide measurable answers to all of the above questions. We look forward to supporting golf course architects in their quest to provide the best possible solution for their clients.

Visit our website www.billybunker.com