Posted by Nana Hinsley on Thu, Oct 15, 2009 @ 11:47 AM
While we do not pretend to be experts on building the back yard ice skating rink, we can share with you some tips from Lee Hinsley- who has built a rink or two!
Step 1:
Plan- Plan- Plan: There are a few things to consider before you get started.
- What will the rink be used for? Family skating or hosting ice hockey games?
The ice hockey rink will need to be larger with higher walls to keep those wild flying hockey pucks from damaging any people or things that could be in the way. Walls on hockey rinks need to be reinforced to the appropriate levels for the skaters using the rink.
- How many people do you expect to be on the rink at the same time? You don't want any collisions if your rink is too small to accommodate the number of excited skaters.
Step 2: Decide on the shape and location for your rink.
The surface of the rink should be flat. Before the ground gets too cold, it is time to level the area. If you are planning to put stakes into the ground for the frame, better do that before the ground is frozen. Measure your rink and purchase the plastic sheeting to hold in the water. The liner will need to extend over the top of the wooden frame. White plastic usually works the best, freezes the fastest, keeps the ice crisp and fast.
Step 3: Lay down the plastic sheeting , and fill with water. Keep the excited children off your prized rink until it is good and frozen solid.
Step 4: Take lots of video and pictures. 10 years from now you will be glad that you did!
Have a blast!