Building your very own backyard ice rink can be an exciting and rewarding project, creating a winter wonderland for family and friends to enjoy. With the right materials and a bit of effort, you can transform your outdoor space into a skating haven. Here's a step-by-step approach that we used to build our 53ft X 23ft rink and a materials list to help you set up:
Materials Required:
Home Depot:
1.Treated Lumber:
-2x4x8 for sidewall framing
-2x6x8 for the top plate
-1/2" plywood
2. Galvanized Accessories:
-Fence posts for safety netting
-Steel tension bar for chain link fencing
-3-1/2" Spiral framing nails
-1-1/2" Spiral nails for the plywood
3. Structural Fasteners:
-3-1/8" RSS structural screws
Amazon:
1. Safety Equipment:
-150x10 ft safety net
-6" Zip ties to secure safety net to fence post.
2. Lighting:
-13,500 lm super bright outdoor light
-50 ft extension cord for rink lighting
3. Rink Liner:
-55x25 ft RinkMaster 6mil rink liner
High level step-by-step guide:
1. Site Selection and Preparation: Choose a flat area in your backyard that is away from trees to minimize debris on the ice. Clear any rocks, twigs, or uneven patches to create a smooth base.
2. Frame Construction: Using the treated 2X4X8 lumber and the 1/2" plywood from Home Depot, construct the sidewalls in sections. 2 feet high on the section and 4 feet on the upper section of the rink. Secure the 2X6X8 top plates after constructing the frame will help with the top alignment.
3. Safety Features: Install the galvanized fence posts around the perimeter of the area where the goal will be placed, attaching the safety net to keep pucks within the rink.
4. Lighting Installation: Set up the light to illuminate the rink for evening skating sessions. Use the 50 ft extension cord to connect the light securely to your power source.
5. Lining the Rink: Lay out the 55X25 ft RinkMaster 6mil rink liner, ensuring it covers the entire area within the frame. Smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets for a flat ice surface.
6. Filling the Rink: Fill the lined area with water a little at a time, ensuring an even distribution. Allow it to freeze solidly, checking the weather for consistent below-freezing temperatures for optimal ice formation.
7. Final Touches: Once the ice has frozen, inspect for any cracks or uneven areas and fill them with additional water as needed. Regular maintenance will keep the rink in top skating conditions throughout the season.
Remember, safety first! Always supervise children while they're on the ice and keep the area around the rink clear of obstacles. Have fun creating lasting memories on your backyard ice rink!