Smooth it out Most people who make backyard ice rinks don't own a Zamboni. So to keep the ice rink surface smooth, you'll occasionally need to do what's called resurfacing. Essentially, this means you'll be putting a new layer of water on top of the existing ice to freeze, which will create a smoother surface.
How thick of icedo you need for backyard rink?
Q4 How thick does the ice have to be? A A minimum of 2” (two inches) thick for the ice to stay solid and hold the weight of a 300lb person is required. For the municipal rinks, we recommend at least 3” (three inches).
How thick should Arena ice?
Q: How thick should my ice surface be? A: Ice thickness in most NHL facilities vary from ¾” to 1½” of ice. The industry standard is 1½” and if you have heavy programming, you should carry 2″ of ice.
How do you build an ice rink in your backyard?
- Step 1: Find Level Ground and Lay Out the Frame.
- Step 2: Frame your Backyard Ice Rink.
- Step 3: Line your Backyard Skating Rink with a Tarp.
- Step 4: Fill your Ice Rink with Water and Let it Freeze.
- Step 5: Hang Up Lights to Finish Off your Backyard Ice Rink.
How long does it take to flood an ice rink?
A The first time you set up the backyard rink and get it ready to fill up with water it will take an average of 1 to 3 hours on “level” ground . If the ground is not level, it will require additional time to adjust the frame to make it level. uld take from 6 to 8 hours depending on the size.
How often should you flood an ice rink?
You'll want to routinely flood the rink to build up the thickness and maintain a smooth, even surface. It's best to flood your rink in the evening when the wind has stopped and no snow is falling. Start at one end and work slowly across the surface creating a ripple free pool of water.
What is the best temperature to flood an ice rink?
Take care of your ice The ideal temperature to flood your ice is between -7 and -20 degrees Celsius. If you try to flood your rink when it's below -20 degrees, the ice will be brittle and freeze before it has a chance to level out.
How thick is the ice in an ice arena?
Ice is approximately 3/4" of an inch thick and is usually chilled at 16 degrees fahrenheit. The thicker the ice, the softer and slower it becomes.
How much does it cost to build an outdoor ice rink?
As a reference point, a custom ice rink for a typical Suburban Lot which can be 30' by 50' starts at approximately $1300.00. Custom ice rinks could be arena style with back boards for the hockey lovers or they could be skating rinks with shorter boards for better cost efficiency.
When should I flood my backyard ice rink?
Wait until the frost is into the ground at least 2 inches and be sure the weather will remain below -4º (24ºF) for several days before attempting to flood. 2. If snow is available, create a wall on perimeter of rink. Remove lumps of ice chunks and other debris before flooding.
How much water does it take to make a skating rink?
A recent survey shows the average rink builder has 12″ of water depth. I know we have shared this previously on other pages but it is extremely important. It is a fact and a characteristic of all rink building areas. You need support for this 12″ of water.
Should you flood your rink when it's snowing?
Shariff says you should never flood during a cold snap because it produces brittle ice that easily cracks. If that does happen, Shariff says you just need to wait until the temperature rises. Then fill the cracks immediately with a mixture of of water and snow and give your rink a warm water bath to smooth things out.
Is owning an ice rink profitable?
The only thing you really need to run an ice rink successfully (though not necessarily profitably) is lot's of money. Only rarely does it come from actual profits generated by operation of the rink. There are profitable rinks, but they are few and far between. There is one common thread among profitable rinks.
How much water does an outdoor ice rink need?
Fill it all up at once so the water can level out - freezing in layers can create an uneven surface. The following floods should be with hot water if available. Once you have two to three inches of ice your rink will be ready!
Can you flood an ice rink with cold water?
You could use cold or hot water, but if the temperature is very low, attaching your hose to hot water and flooding your surface with a very small layer of hot water produces the best finish.
What do you do when it's snowing on an ice rink?
If snow is available, create a wall on perimeter of rink. Remove lumps of ice chunks and other debris before flooding. Be sure there are no gaps in the retaining wall where water can escape. Seal any gaps with packed snow.
Can you make an ice rink on grass?
He notes that the tarp isn't always necessary, pointing out that most municipalities make the ice directly on grass or asphalt. "You doit in layers," he said, "You spray a little layer first and then you layer it on. That's how the cities would do it."