How to Build an Outdoor Rink: 1 Minute to Your Ice Skating Paradise

Building an outdoor rink is a rewarding project for anyone who loves skating, hockey, or simply enjoying the winter with friends and family. To start, you’ll need a flat area, preferably in your backyard, that receives consistent shade to help preserve the ice. Begin by clearing debris, mowing the lawn low, and marking out your rink dimensions with stakes and string. Most home rinks are 20’x40’ or larger, but you can scale the size to fit your available space.

Next, construct a frame using 2x6 or 2x8 lumber to create the rink’s border. Secure the boards to stakes, ensuring the frame is level; this is crucial for even ice thickness and safe skating. Once the frame is in place, add a heavy-duty plastic liner that extends up the sides of the boards. This liner will retain water that will freeze into your rink. When the temperatures are consistently below freezing (ideally at or below 20°F/-6°C), fill the rink slowly with water using a garden hose. Add water in layers, letting each freeze before adding more to reduce air bubbles and cracks.

As a designer, I always consider aesthetics and functionality. I recommend adding simple LED lights around the perimeter for evening skating, and using temporary fences or natural elements like shrubs to create a cohesive look with the rest of your outdoor space. If you’d like to visualize your rink within your yard, using a dedicated Home Designer tool can help you experiment with layout and landscaping, ensuring your rink enhances—not interrupts—your outdoor environment.

Tips 1:

Consider wind exposure when siting your rink. Place it in a sheltered spot or use windbreaks to reduce snow drift and ice erosion. Also, reserve a small area nearby for skate changing and equipment storage for convenience and to keep your yard tidy.

FAQ

Q: What materials do I need to build an outdoor rink?

A: Basic materials include lumber for framing, a heavy-duty plastic liner, stakes, a garden hose, and access to water. Optional items are LED lights for ambiance and a snow shovel for maintenance.

Q: When is the best time to start building an outdoor rink?

A: Begin preparations in late fall, but only fill the rink once daily temperatures consistently stay below freezing.

Q: How do I keep the ice smooth on my rink?

A: Regularly remove snow, and flood the surface with a thin layer of water using a hose or homemade resurfacer after heavy use to maintain smoothness.

Q: Can I build an outdoor rink on a slope?

A: It’s much easier to build on a flat surface. For sloped yards, additional framing and water leveling may be required.

Q: How can I make my outdoor rink look more attractive in the yard?

A: Incorporate landscaping, add outdoor lighting, and integrate your rink’s design with existing garden elements to create a visually pleasing space.