Backyard Ice Skating Rink

7/16/20232 min read

Crafting Your Backyard Ice Skating Ramp: A DIY Guide

Introduction: Imagine gliding gracefully across your own backyard ice skating ramp, enjoying the crisp winter air and the thrill of skating in the comfort of your home. Building an ice-skating ramp in your backyard can be a fun and rewarding DIY project that brings winter wonderland magic to your doorstep. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create your very own backyard ice skating ramp for hours of frosty enjoyment.

Materials You'll Need:

  • Wooden boards (plywood or treated lumber)

  • Support beams

  • Nails or screws

  • Level

  • Circular saw

  • Measuring tape

  • Plastic liner or tarp

  • Water source

  • Hose

  • Snow shovels

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Site Selection: Choose a flat area in your backyard with enough space for your ice-skating ramp. Make sure the ground is level to ensure a smooth skating surface.

2. Frame Construction:

  • Measure and mark the dimensions of your desired ice-skating ramp on the ground.

  • Construct the frame using the wooden boards for the sides and support beams. Nail or screw the pieces together securely.

  • Use a level to ensure the frame is even and level.

3. Lining the inside:

  • Lay a plastic liner or tarp inside the structure securing to your frame with a staple gun. I recommend securing the liner on the top of the frame, or having the lining overhand and secure on the outside. This will prevent water from seeping into the ground and help retain the water for ice formation.

5. Making the ice:

  • Attach a hose to a water source and thoroughly wet the plastic liner. Allow the water to freeze, creating the first layer of ice.

  • Repeat this process multiple times, allowing each layer to freeze before adding the next. This will build up the thickness of the ice and create a solid skating surface.

  • Use snow shovels to shape the ice and create a smooth, even surface.

  • Continue to add water layers as needed to maintain the thickness of the ice. Be patient, as this process may take some time.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Clear off snow and debris regularly to maintain a smooth skating surface.

  • If the weather warms up, cover the ice with a tarp to slow down melting.

HAVE FUN!