How to Build a Backyard Ice Hockey Rink: Step-by-Step Guide

Building a backyard ice hockey rink is an exciting winter project that provides endless fun for the entire family. Whether you’re a hockey enthusiast or just want to enjoy ice skating at home, constructing your own rink can transform your yard into a winter wonderland.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

The first step in building a backyard rink is selecting the ideal location. The area you choose will greatly influence how easy the rink is to build and maintain.

Considerations:

Flat Surface: The ground should be as flat as possible to ensure an even ice surface. Sloped areas will result in uneven ice, making flooding difficult.
Drainage: Pick a spot with good drainage to avoid issues when the ice starts melting in the spring.
Space: Make sure the area is large enough for the rink size you want. Leave extra room around the edges for maintenance and snow removal.
Sunlight Exposure: Try to choose a spot with some shade to reduce sun exposure and prolong the life of the ice.

Pro Tip: If you don't have a perfectly flat surface, you can still build your rink by leveling it with extra framing on one side.

Step 2: Determine the Size of Your Rink

The size of your rink will depend on your available space and intended use. You don’t need a full-sized rink to have fun—backyard rinks can range from small to large, based on your preferences.

Common Backyard Rink Sizes:

Small Rink: 20 x 40 feet – Ideal for casual skating and young kids.
Medium Rink: 40 x 80 feet – Great for hockey practice and small games.
Large Rink: 60 x 100 feet – Provides ample space for full hockey games.

Pro Tip: Measure the available space in your yard and mark the perimeter with stakes and string to visualize the size.

Step 3: Build the Frame

The frame is crucial to hold the water and create the ice surface. It’s typically made from wooden boards or PVC pipes, which are easy to set up and sturdy enough to contain the water.

Materials Needed:

Wooden Boards: Use pressure-treated 2x6 or 2x8 boards, depending on the height of your desired rink. The boards should be long enough to frame the entire perimeter of the rink.
PVC Pipes (optional): PVC pipes can also be used as a lightweight alternative to wood.
Brackets/Stakes: Metal brackets or wooden stakes to secure the boards and reinforce the frame.

Steps to Build the Frame:

Lay out the boards or PVC pipes to form the perimeter of your rink.
Secure the boards using brackets or stakes. Make sure they are level, especially if your yard has a slope.
If the ground is uneven, adjust the height of the boards on the lower side to contain the water.

Pro Tip: Make sure the frame is sturdy, as the pressure of water and ice can push against it once filled.

Step 4: Install the Liner

The liner is essential for holding the water and preventing it from leaking into the ground. Choose a heavy-duty plastic liner that is durable enough to withstand cold temperatures and rough use.

Liner Specifications:

Material: Use a heavy-duty plastic or polyethylene liner that’s at least 6-8 mil thick to prevent punctures and leaks.
Size: The liner should be large enough to cover the entire rink with extra overhang on the edges.

How to Install the Liner:

Lay the liner flat across the frame, ensuring that it covers the bottom and sides of the rink.
Pull the liner tightly to eliminate wrinkles and creases, which can cause uneven ice.
Secure the liner around the edges using clips, stakes, or by tucking it under the frame. Avoid puncturing the liner.

Pro Tip: Install the liner just before a period of consistently freezing temperatures to prevent rain or snow from damaging it before the water freezes.

Step 5: Fill the Rink with Water

Once the liner is in place, it’s time to flood the rink with water. The goal is to create a smooth, even surface that will freeze solidly.

Steps to Flood the Rink:

Use a garden hose to slowly fill the rink with cold water. Fill the shallowest part of the rink first, allowing the water to spread evenly.
Aim for a water depth of 3-4 inches in the shallowest areas. If your yard is uneven, one side may require more water than the other.
Allow the water to freeze in layers. A solid base of ice ensures stability and prevents cracking.

Freezing Tips:

Wait for several days of consistently cold temperatures (below freezing) before filling the rink.
For smoother ice, flood the rink at night when temperatures are colder and the wind is calmer.

Pro Tip: Use multiple layers of water and let each layer freeze before adding more to build a strong ice surface.

Step 6: Maintain the Ice

Ice maintenance is essential for keeping the surface smooth and safe throughout the winter season. Regular maintenance helps extend the life of your rink and ensures a better skating experience.

Maintenance Tasks:

Shovel Snow: After each snowfall, shovel the rink to prevent snow from melting into slush and creating bumps.
Flood the Ice: To repair cracks or rough patches, apply a thin layer of water using a garden hose or a DIY resurfacer made from PVC pipes.
Check for Damage: Inspect the ice regularly for cracks or holes and patch them up as needed.

Pro Tip: For the smoothest ice, flood the rink with a thin layer of water every few days, especially after heavy use.

Step 7: Add Lights for Night Skating

Night skating adds a whole new level of fun to your backyard rink. Adding lights allows you to extend skating time and creates a magical winter atmosphere.

Lighting Options:

Floodlights: Set up LED floodlights around the perimeter to illuminate the entire rink.
String Lights: Wrap string lights around the boards or nearby trees for a festive touch.
Solar Lights: Solar-powered or battery-operated lights can be a great option if you don’t have access to electricity outdoors.

Pro Tip: Position the lights at different angles to minimize shadows and ensure even lighting across the rink.

Step 8: Enjoy Your Backyard Rink!

With your rink built and the ice in perfect condition, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you’re practicing your hockey skills, playing pickup games, or just enjoying some casual skating, your backyard rink will be the highlight of winter.

Ideas for Fun on Your Rink:

Pick-Up Hockey Games: Invite friends or family for a casual game.
Skating Parties: Host a winter skating party with music, hot chocolate, and plenty of skating time.
Practice Drills: Use the rink to practice shooting, stickhandling, or skating drills.

Conclusion

Building a backyard ice hockey rink is a rewarding winter project that brings hours of fun for the whole family. By following these steps, you can create a high-quality rink that provides a safe, enjoyable space for skating and hockey games all season long. So, lace up your skates, grab your sticks, and enjoy the ultimate backyard winter experience!