Monday, December 29, 2008

Build Your Own Backyard Skating Rink!

By Bambi Turner

When winter comes, we are reminded of all the wonders of this season, from the holidays to steaming cups of hot chocolate. And of course, nothing says winter better than visiting an outdoor ice skating rink and skating under the stars, while feeling the cool winter air on your skin. There is nothing better than gliding across a frozen pond or rink,wnjoying the feeling of outdoor skating while soaking in the magic of winter. But what if there are no rinks nearby? Maybe it's time to consider building your very own backyard skating rink, that can be used by friends and family any time you desire.

Many skating fans dream of building their own backyard rink, but are worried that it's too diffcult or too expensive. In fact, it's surprisingly simple. Backyard rinks these days are as simple as assembling a kit, with all the instructions and required parts coming in one package.

Portable or artificial backyard ice skating rinks were designed as a solution to unsafe ice skating conditions in private ponds and to the lack of quality ice rinks nearby. Home owners and businesses can have their own backyard or private property ice rink within hours with easy, simple, quick installation. Anyone can install a backyard ice skating rink, prolonging the skating season. When the weather gets warmer than 32 degrees F, if a thaw occurs, or in case of rain, the basin of these rinks will hold water.

Since most properties are not perfectly level, backyard ice skating rinks are designed to accommodate up to 18" of grade differences. Likewise, the total area depends primarily upon the needs of the customer. Some manufacturing companies can customize a skating rink to as large as desired, while others offer rinks at designated size ranges.

Since most properties are not perfectly level, backyard ice skating rinks are designed to accommodate up to 18" of grade differences. Likewise, the total area depends primarily upon the needs of the customer. Some manufacturing companies can customize a skating rink to as large as desired, while others offer rinks at designated size ranges.

When it comes to keeping the ice smooth and even, there are many tools that can be used. The most popular is the rink rake, available from most rink manufacturers. This tool smooths away old snow and ice while laying water from a regular garden hose. Of course, for those of you dying to have your own Zamboni, miniature models are available.

Prices of these rinks can vary, but expect to pay $50-100 for smaller versions and up to $400 for larger models. These rinks can be used year after year, and are very durable.

When compared to taking the whole family to a local rink, these backyard skating rinks are actually a bargain. They can be used everyday for the entire season, year after year, making them a great investment in affordable family fun. - 15438

About the Author: