How To Build A Backyard Ice Rink

After determining the size and layout, the three set out to build the rink. Jenn shows the homeowner how to determine the height for the top of the ice before Nathan details how to use the hardware to create butt and corner joints. Then, after adjusting the rink’s frame for height, the three fill any gaps with extra wood to ensure it can hold the ice. Finally, Jenn and Nathan roll out the plastic tarp, secure it in place with staples, and fill the rink with a garden hose.

Do Backyard Ice Rinks Ruin Grass?

An ice rink won’t destroy your yard if you install it and take it apart at the right times. The grass is dormant in winter, so if you wait until after the first freeze to build it and then take it apart before spring starts, the lawn should be just fine.

How to Build a Backyard Ice Rink

Resources

Jenn and Nathan built the ice skating rink out of a series of 2x10”x16’ KD boards, which can be found at home centers and lumberyards. To secure the boards together, Nathan used a series of galvanized brackets, which are manufactured by Simpson Strong-Tie. To hold the water in the rink, Jenn and Nathan used a 28x64’ 7mm white polyethylene from J. Freeman, Inc. Outside of New England, look for a local plastic distributor company that makes products such as boat wraps. Some companies might even specify plastic for ice skating rinks. For the details around center ice, Nathan used a piece of PVC board and some red PEX pipe, which can be found at most home centers. Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Kelstrom Landscaping, Inc.