Synthetic Ice Installation & Maintenance

Are you thinking about a backyard ice rink?

If you’re a skating fanatic like we are or have kids that play hockey or figure skating, the thought must have crossed your mind a few times.

It’s possible – and in some cases, easy – to build an ice rink in your backyard.

The thought of lacing up your skates and stepping outside (with bumpers on, of course) and onto the rink seems too good to pass up.  

Backyard ice rinks have been around for decades, and now, you have several options at your disposal.

At the same time, the process can become costly and time-consuming if done incorrectly.

We’ll go through some do’s and don’ts so you end up with an at-home ice skating solution that everyone will love. 

Types of backyard ice rinks 

There are a few options available for a backyard rink.

The one you choose will be based on factors like weather, space, building ability, and budget.

Here are the options to consider: 

Snow and water

Yes, you can build an ice rink with just snow and water.

If it has snowed and built up a large enough mound of ice, you can dig out a big enough space, using the snow as rink walls.

Fill the area with water, then let the weather get to work.

Once the temperature is consistent, you can skate for weeks.

A cheap, practical option, but messy with too many variables involved. 

Tarp and plywood

If you are good with your hands, you can consider crafting your own rink with some simple hardware items and Mother Nature.

This method requires a large enough tarp or plastic lining to cover the backyard ice rink.

Then, you’ll build the rink walls using plywood and steel brackets.

Fill the rink with a couple of inches of water and wait for freezing temperatures.

Add in a quick spray with hot water, and you have a smooth, skateable, at-home ice rink.

This is the OG method and the most popular one for backyard rinks, but it does take some building know-how.  

Skating rink kits 

Think of the tarp and plywood method but with all the materials in one place, ready to go.

There are several companies selling DIY rink kits.

The lining, walls, brackets, and other necessary tools come in one package.

Follow the instructions, fill the rink with water, and you can have a backyard skating option.

The biggest challenge is choosing the right provider—quality matters. 

Synthetic Ice tiles/panels/kits

Synthetic ice rinks are growing in popularity thanks to their affordability, ease of installation, and durability.

These are polyethylene tiles or panels that are skateable.

You place them on your designated spot, connect the boards, and you have a rink!

Synthetic ice is also easily scalable.

Choose between our Home Starter Kits and Larger, bigger panels:

• Pro-Glide Infused - Full Panel (1/2" X 46" X 96", 80 lbs. per)
• Pro-Glide Infused - Half Panel (1/2" X 46" X 46", 40 lbs. per)

These panels are easy to assemble and will have you ice skating in no time in virtually any location.

Refrigerated ice rinks:  

The rinks you see your favorite NHL team using?

Refrigerated rinks.

These rinks use the same concept it takes to keep your home AC or refrigerator cool using water, coolant, and refrigeration machinery.

Refrigerated rinks were only for more extensive, commercial spaces, but now there are several at-home options.

While these rinks give the closest professional feel, they are the most expensive and need time and expertise to install and continuous maintenance.

  

Backyard Ice Rink Benefits  

Choosing to build a backyard rink is a no-brainer.

For instance, you can skate at any time in the safety of your home.

It is also a great community-building tool.

If you have neighbors or kids that like hockey or ice skating, they can enjoy it too.

Backyard rinks are also easy to install, with many rinks or materials easy to access and set up.

You also have more time to train, get stronger, and build a competitive advantage with your rink.

If you’re ready to install a rink, you’ll have a few questions.

Here are some DOs and DON’Ts that prepare you for at-home skating on your new backyard rink:

DO consider the weather.

Weather conditions play a significant role in building a backyard rink.

What are your winter weather patterns?

Can you rely on consistent temperatures?

Is there constant snow or rain?

These factors will determine your choice of the rink.

For instance, if you want to build a rink but can’t rely on consistent weather, a synthetic or refrigerated rink may be the best choice.

If you want to skate through the year, synthetic is the only option.

The other methods are great for a consistent winter season, but even these are becoming shorter and more sporadic due to climate changes. 

 

DON'T skip the design process.

We often notice that rink owners overlook the other pieces that make a backyard space unique.

So, take some time to design your space.

For instance, you will want a longer, rectangular rink or a square one.

Lights, goal posts, nets, and bumpers for safety are other accessories that will turn your rink from good to great.  

DO make sure you’re on level ground.

A common mistake from rink builders is installing on uneven surfaces.

Most backyards are not entirely level.

If you overlook this, you’ll have a poor skating experience.

For rinks that need water, a sloped backyard can make the ice thinner in some areas.

If you’re installing synthetic ice, the uneven surfaces can cause falls or damage to the panels.

Check that the yard is level first. Use these steps to check the grade of the yard.

You may need some thin sheets of plywood to compensate for uneven surfaces.  

DON'T compromise on quality materials.

There are several rink providers on the market.

Some focus on quality items, ease of use, or versatility.

There are also others on Amazon that you can get with a few clicks.

However, some are low-quality materials that can cost more in the long run.

For instance, an ice rink kit might have poor quality lining or rink walls.

Others may have synthetic ice which is not made of High-Density Polyethylene, may break down, lose its effectiveness, or require constant application of a Slip Surface Conditioner.

Take some time to research before choosing your rink.  

DO consider rink walls or rebounder bars.

If you choose a natural or refrigerated ice rink, walls are required.

However, for synthetic ice, you don’t need rink walls to start skating.

On the one hand, this is a great advantage if you want to reduce costs.

However, rink walls are great for safety.

Who wants to fall over the edge if you’re playing hockey?

It also stops your puck from flying everywhere.  

DON'T forget about safety.

With ice skating, safety is paramount.

Falls and collisions can happen, especially with hockey.

If you’re building a skating rink for your kids, you want a space where they can skate without constant supervision.

Installing foam on rink walls is an excellent example of a safety measure.

It would be best if you also cleared the area around the rink to avoid injuries.  

DO enlist some help.

Building a rink can be time-consuming and, in some cases, requires some handyman abilities.

If you’re building a rink with water, you’ll need someone to help install rink walls and place the liner.

For refrigerated rinks, you’ll rely on the provider to install the rink, but if you’re DIY, don’t do it alone.

The advantage of synthetic ice is that you can install the rink without help.

A soft mallet is enough to set up the rink.

You should get some help anyway since it’s fun to set up your rink with a friend! 

DON'T forget about maintenance.

The best skating experience will require maintenance of your rink.

For backyard rinks with water, snow and ice can pile up on the rink.

You’ll need to resurface the rink with hot water.

Synthetic ice rinks are easier to manage but do need to be cleared of dirt and shavings.

In some cases, you’ll need to resurface the rink with conditioner.

Set a schedule to clean and maintain the rink, with the right tools to make it happen.  

DO have fun!

When you’re in the process of building a rink, the anticipation builds as you get closer to the end.

That feeling when you first touch the ice is priceless.

You’re making the rink to have fun!

Don’t forget to enjoy it and look for ways to mix things up so you can get the most out of your investment.

Invite friends and neighbors over.

Try different activities like curling or host an ice movie night.

Focus on fun, and you’ll enjoy the rink for years to come.  

DONT wait!

If you're an ice skating enthusiast, beginner, or just want to have fun with your friends and family then learn how to ice skate at home!

There are so many rink options you can consider: basement rink, garage rink, deck rink, patio rink, rooftop rink, travel rink, spin rink....the list goes on and on.

Our PolyGlide Synthetic Ice has added diversity to ice skating in both affordability and access.

You are only limited by your own creativity and ideas on what you can accomplish with your skating.

It’s time to skate!  

There are several considerations when building a backyard ice rink.

During the winter, people gravitate to the plywood and tarp or rink kit methods.

If you’re willing to invest the energy in maintaining the rink, it can be a truly fantastic experience.

However, synthetic ice is becoming the go-to for at-home ice skating simply because it's easy to use, durable and scalable.

Our synthetic ice has helped hundreds of homes transform their backyard into a winter skating staple.

Follow the do’s and don’ts of backyard rink building, and you can have one too.

Check out all of our rink packages to choose the ideal rink for you home. 

 

 

 

Synthetic ice has been around for decades.

Thanks to research and technology, skatable tiles and panels can be made in customizable sizes and shapes.

Now, we no longer have to wait for winter to ice skate.

We can now take our ice skates out for fun any time of the year.

We continue to be in awe of the ingenuity of rink owners.

They develop rinks in garages, barns, spare rooms, decks, and even above pools.

Pushing those limits means building on different surfaces, without necessarily transforming the surface itself.

A common question we are asked is,“can synthetic ice go on your carpet?” 

As the popularity of synthetic ice continues to grow, more and more people are wondering if synthetic ice can go on your carpet.

Generally, you need a flat and hard surface where to place your synthetic ice.

It could be outside - like your driveway - or inside the house - such as the basement or an extra room.

However, provisions need to be made in order to install your ice over your carpet, as it may not be flat and hard enough to support the ice panels during skating. 

Why Choose Carpet?

Carpet is a great flooring option for homes.

It provides style, warmth, comfort, and can even help absorb sound.

When you install carpet, it’s a long-term investment. No one wants to rip it all up to install their ice rink.

It’s an added expense and removing your carpet is a straightforward process.

Since synthetic ice does not cause moisture damage, some rink owners would want to use a spare carpeted room or area. 

How does Carpet Impact Synthetic Ice?

Ice rinks, regardless of material, need a hard, flat surface.

Outdoor natural rinks need a hard, grassy area to fill with water around wintertime.

Refrigerated rinks that are outdoors need grass or concrete for set up.

Indoor facilities also have a concrete foundation.

The same goes for synthetic ice.

Here’s why the sub-surface needs to be flat and firm: 

• Flat surfaces provide power when skating. The skater applies force when skating to move, accelerate, and stop. If the surface provides less resistance, you’ll lose speed and have difficulty stopping quickly. 
• Synthetic ice tiles and panels connect like puzzle pieces. If you place them directly on the carpet, the vibration of the air pocket between the tile and carpet can cause the panels to bounce and dislodge, leading to possible injury. 
• Figure skaters need hard surfaces for a safe landing after jumps. A surface that cannot absorb the energy of the skater, they are more likely to fall and suffer ankle or foot injuries. 
• Over time, there is a higher chance of damaging your synthetic ice, reducing its shelf life (as much as 10 years).

If you want to get the best return on your investment, make sure you provide a flat, firm base for your synthetic ice panels.

Where can You Set up Your Home Ice Rink?

Rinks can be used for a variety of purposes - from hosting a backyard hockey game, and training, to ice skating with friends.

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a location for your home ice rink.

First, you'll need a level surface that is large enough to accommodate the rink. 

Next, you'll also need to make sure the surface is smooth so avoid uneven ice.

There should also be no nearby objects that can pose a hazard to your skaters or damage the ice.

Finally, make sure the location is in a well-lit area so that you can see clearly when you're skating.

With these factors in mind, backyards, driveways, basements, hardwood floors, garages, and decks are great options.

Time to Set it Up.

First, measure your chosen space to determine the size of synthetic ice panels that you'll need to buy. 

The next step is acquiring your ice panels.

For instance, we offer the PolyGlide Starter Kit, which is specifically designed to help you quickly set up an ice rink at your home.

The Kit has four individual panels, measuring 1/4" x 24" x 48" each.

The ice panels are made of premium-grade, specially formulated polymer plastic, with a patented proprietary slip agent.

These panels are portable and durable, perfect for skaters of any age.

You’ll simply connect your tiles on your surface and you’re ready to skate. 

Moving forward, if your space - especially carpet, driveway or basement, has uneven flooring, you need plywood that will serve as an underlay.

PolyGlide "Slip Tape" also helps seal the ice panels on the floor, for added security and to keep them from sliding around.

Setting up Your Synthetic Ice Panels at Home

Is your location locked?

Materials prepped?

Got some help?

Now it’s time to build.

Here are the basic steps: 

1. Clean Up the Space.

Your ice rink needs a flat and firm surface.

Clean the surface and remove any dirt, dust, or objects.

This includes any rugs that will affect skating.

The surrounding area should also be organized and free from any items that may break or cause injury. 

2. Assemble Your Rink. 

Synthetic ice rinks come in easy-to-assemble panels that fit together like a puzzle.

Use a rubber mallet to connect the tiles smoothly.

If your chosen location is uneven, place the plywood first, then the panels, using tape to secure them to the surface.

2. Add Some Barriers. 

Some areas will have enough space to add barriers around your rink.

Barriers keep skaters contained and prevent stray pucks.

Bounce bars, dasher boards, or netting are excellent options.

3. Add Some Barriers.

 Once your rink is set up, invite some friends over and enjoy some fun skating all year long!

Need inspiration?

Check out this video of a family who transformed their living room into an ice rink.

Maintaining Ice Rink at Home

The work is not yet done, even after setting up your home ice rink.

Now, you need to know about maintaining it but don't worry because it is much easier than maintaining ice rinks made of natural ice.

With synthetic ice, you have to address three things: (1) surface shavings, (2) residue from panel conditioners, and (3) general dirt.

Cleaning Surface Shavings

Surface shavings accumulate every time your blade glides across the ice.

They may be a minuscule amount, but when you just let them gather over time, they can ruin your skating experience.

The good thing is that cleaning these shavings is pretty simple.

Using a soft brush, you must sweep off the residue after each session.

But make sure you wear shoe covers to protect your tiles while cleaning them. 

PolyGlide Ice shavings can be disposed of with your weekly recyclables!

Removing the Residue from Panel Conditioners

As part of your ice rink maintenance, we highly recommend applying a surface conditioner.

This will help provide a better skating experience on the surface.

However, when using a conditioner, you must mix it with water and apply a light application to the surface with a fine mist spray and a flat microfiber mop.

Be sure to check the surface afterward to wipe it thoroughly clean. 

Removing dirt

Naturally, bits of dirt and dust will accumulate on your rink over time.

To limit dirt build-up, clean the surface regularly with a PH-neutral cleanser such as "Simple Green."

Synthetic ice rinks are also subject to wear and tear.

As the skaters trip and fall, scuffs and scratches on the ice are bound to happen.

Examine the ice panels for these and fix them up accordingly. 

Conclusion

Setting up a synthetic ice rink in your home is an excellent option if you're looking for a fun and unique way to practice hockey, figure skating, or even stay in shape.

If your spare room has carpet - and you can’t remove it - we recommend prepping the area first with plywood to provide the flat, hard surface that you need.

Once installed correctly, you can barely tell the difference between these rinks and the real thing.

Get started with your synthetic panel skating journey today by checking out all of our rink packages and some great deals!

 

 

 

When you’re done setting up your synthetic ice, you’ll begin to think about adding elements to make it look and feel like a real, competitive hockey rink.

Two of the main objectives will be puck containment and making sure there are a limited amount of broken windows on each shooting end.

Whether you have a backyard rink, a small rink in a spare room, or a large commercial synthetic ice rink, you must be wondering, “ Are hockey boards for a synthetic ice rink even necessary?”

Here’s an answer based on our experience:

You don’t need hockey boards to enjoy the benefits of synthetic ice, however, it’s an important part of the safety of skaters (and potential spectators) depending on the size of the rink.

Hockey boards can also help with the strategic parts of the game when practicing though it's your choice whether to install them or not.

Because it is a common practice to see hockey boards at your favorite NHL team rink, you may think it’s a requirement but if you're handy you can create your own board system that won't hurt your pocket book.

Here is some more insight into some of the best hockey boards on the market and how great they work with any synthetic ice surface.

 

 

What are Hockey Boards Exactly?

Hockey "dasher" boards are simply the walls for your rink.

Your standard regulation hockey rink has two side boards that cover the length of the rink with end boards and corner boards around each end zone.

Near the center red line in the Neutral Zone, one of these side boards provides the doors for each player to enter and exit the game.

On the opposite end are the doors for the penalty boxes.

On your standard Collegiate or NHL rink, hockey boards are actually two parts.

The bottom part is the dasher board with the white board that makes up the rink walls and on the top of the boards is tempered glass which can be several feet high, with higher glass shielding behind the goal.

The main purpose of hockey boards is to keep the puck in play and not injuring a fan during the game. It also plays a key part in offensive and defensive strategy.

Some of the best hockey boards are now accessible for smaller home rinks and larger recreational rinks.

 

 

What Materials Can Be Used for Hockey Boards?

The best hockey dasher boards are made of polyethylene sheet, a material that has been around for decades and is known for its durability and versatility as it absorbs energy, making it perfect for puck-impact and checking.

Dasher boards are at least 1/2 inch thick and at least 40-42 inches tall (but no taller than 48”).

Standard rink hockey boards have a painted yellow "kick-plate" at the bottom and blue or red "cap-rail" trim on top.. In professional rinks, part of the board is painted with a blue or red strip to match the blue and red lines on the ice.

Home rinks or commercial spaces do not need rink shielding systems and can be constructed using plywood to create rink walls, especially if they are making backyard rinks during the winter.

Plywood boards are cheaper alternatives but lack the durability of polyethylene.

 

Pros and Cons of Hockey Boards

If you have a synthetic ice rink, you may be wondering if you should take the next step to invest in the best hockey boards on the market.

You should consider who will be using the rink and for what purpose.

If you’re expecting the kids to have friends over and have friendly 3-on-3 action, the boards are a great investment.

It will help them with a more enjoyable game that is similar to real competition.

But if the rink is just for recreational use, side boards may not be necessary.

Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros	Cons
Provides safety	It can be costly to install
Commercial advertising space	Need skilled help to install/uninstall safely.
Spend less time chasing pucks	More time cleaning and maintaining
Allows for more physical play	The possibility of ‘boarding’ injuries at home rinks.
Durable and long-lasting.	Requires UV Inhibitor for outdoor rinks

 

Boards and Hockey Strategy.

Hockey boards play an important part in the overall flow and strategy of hockey and learning how to use those boards intelligently instantly makes you a better player.

If you have young Peewee or Bantam-level skaters at home, now is a good time to introduce dasher or rebound dasher curbs with your synthetic ice.

For starters, having boards will help them learn how to quickly receive the puck as it bounces off the board.

They can start working on using specific angles to give them an advantage in a game.

The boards also come into play in passing, defending, and even setting up the play by "banking it" off the boards at the right angle to get it to a teammate in stride during the play.

As a defenseman, you can also use the boards to shield the puck from an oncoming opponent as getting the puck from behind your body and stick is much more difficult when angling and using the boards properly.

This technique gives the player enough time to assess the ice before making his next move.

 

How Do You Set Up Hockey Boards On Your Synthetic Ice Rink?

If you’re interested in setting up boards for your rink, there are a few things to consider.

First, you have to think about the materials you will use.

• Are you going to get wood, plastic, or stronger polyethylene?
• Are you going to buy ready-made boards?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both.

If you want something easy to assemble and disassemble, ready-made polyethylene boards work but can be quite pricey.

If you have more time but a smaller budget, you’ll probably want to build your rink walls yourself.

First, measure the dimensions of your synthetic ice surface as these measurements will help you determine how many boards you will need to complete your project.

Some rinks have curved, radius corners, so any measurements taken must consider this. 

Your rink should already be on level ground, or the walls will be uneven.

Rink boards also need brackets to hold them in place which you can source from a hardware store, or the rink wall provider you purchased form.

Each bracket must be anchored into the ground to support the board's weight.

You will have additional brackets to connect the corners and the boards together.

Remember to recruit a friend or experienced builder to help you get this done right.

• Lay down each board along the edges of the rink.
• Start with the corners. Stand two boards up next to each other.
• Connect one corner first using the brackets or attachment mechanisms provided. Then use the provided bracket to hold the board in place. Test the sturdiness of your first board. It should be strong enough to hold your body weight.
• Move your way around the rink, carefully connecting each board with the brackets, then placing an anchor to keep them in place.
• Some rinks walls have bumpers for safer collisions. Install your bumpers last or buy your own using some foam.

It can take some time, but you’ll have a great hockey board that’s safe and gives your rink.

Consider a Rebounding Dasher Curb.

Some synthetic ice rink owners have time and budget constraints.

A rebounding dasher curb is a great alternative.

The BounceBar by PolyGlide Ice, for instance, is a strip we designed to give synthetic rice rinks a polished finish.

The bar is about 3” high but doubles as a rebounder thanks to the unique, high-reactive foam built into each unit.

You or the hockey player in your family can practice receiving the puck at different angles off of the bar. 

Take a look at how the BounceBar responds in the video below:

 

These bars are customizable and are easy to install, allowing you or your kids to practice those dasher board puck skills at a fraction of the cost.

You can even stack the bars or outfit rinks with curved corners.

Keep in mind that different types of hockey boards will produce different results when the puck hits them.

Wood boards might slow the puck or not provide the same response as conventional polyethylene boards.

If you’re installing panels for safety, the material won’t matter too much.

If it’s for safety and training, you can always get professional-grade boards.

The Bottom Line

Hockey boards are an optional part of building a synthetic ice rink.

Synthetic ice rinks have fantastic benefits like skating year round, easy installation, durability, lower costs and you can skate on the ice without hockey boards. 

However, you’ll find some great benefits to installing your boards, including safety, aesthetics, and training key skills. 

It’s great knowing that you can also choose smaller rebounders or bounce bars to complete your home synthetic ice rink project.

Are you ready to take your synthetic ice rink to the next level?

 

 

 

Ice skating enthusiasts always remember hitting the ice rink for the first time.

For some, it's a nearby lake that's frozen just enough for the kids to risk it all on the ice.

Others would have gone to a neighbor's backyard after their Dad spent hours with the hose filling the rink earlier in the week.

Or maybe you experienced the magic that's The Rink At Rockefeller Center.

These simple moments are the things that turn people like you into lifelong skaters.

And now, sometime later, you're thinking about building a rink of your own.

But not just any rink but a large, commercial ice rink. 

However, setting up a commercial rink is no small task.

Commerical rinks are massive, often capable of handling multiple skaters at once.

When you think about commercial rinks, the ones that might come to mind are massive NHL rinks or rinks set up for Winter Olympics.

However, commercial rinks can come in different sizes and have different uses.

In fact, there are about 2000 commercial rinks in America (our skate-crazed Canadian neighbors have four times as many!), with some even on the west coast.

There are many reasons why a business, group, or individual would install a temporary or permanent commercial rink.

The top 5 reasons include:

 

1. A profit-making venture

Commercial means profit.

A commercial ice rink can attract new business to a current establishment.

Or in some cases, the rink itself can be a stand-alone business that earns money for the owners over time.

Hotels, malls, and other high-traffic areas install temporary rinks in the colder months to attract skating enthusiasts.

Permanent rinks allow skaters to train and have fun year-round.

Whatever the reason, most commercial rinks are in the business of making money.

2. Training for a sports team or club

A hockey team or other ice sports club may need a new rink.

Having direct access to a rink means more time training.

That investment can give a team a significant edge in competition.

Of course, the biggest skating clubs and sports teams are in the NHL.

However, that does not mean smaller clubs or communities can't set up a commercial rink for their junior teams.

 

 

3. Coaching or other skating related classes

Are you a skating coach or part of an ice skating organization?

Maybe you have access to a large space and need a dedicated rink to train your students.

However, a smaller commercial rink can allow coaches to train hockey players, figure skaters, curlers, and much more.

4. You Can Host Events

Commercial rinks are great for individual skaters to enjoy one of their favorite hobbies.

But the uses don't stop there.

These rinks are perfect for larger private and corporate events too.

The possibilities are numerous, such as dancing shows on ice, team-building activities, parties, and even an ice-themed wedding.

 

5. A new community rink

Ice skating is a great way to bring communities together.

If kids and young adults have a space they can easily access, they'll be healthier, happier, and stay out of trouble.

A city council may decide to install a commercial rink for the community benefits.

Consider Synthetic Ice

Installing a commercial ice rink is easier said than done.

Commercial rinks can be expensive in both installation and maintenance.

Refrigerated rinks, the most common commercial rinks, require large-scale refrigeration machines, temperature control, and continuous resurfacing.

These costs add up, and most commercial refrigerated ice rinks fail to turn a profit.

Some outdoor commercial rinks are seasonal, using the elements to create a natural ice rink.

The rink creator fills a specific space with water and waits for the "First Freeze", around mid-October in most cases.

If you're looking to build a commercial rink on a budget, there's no better option than a synthetic ice rink.

Synthetic ice rinks have been used for decades for large-scale projects in malls, outside of businesses, and community events.

The materials mimic the look and feel of real ice, allowing skaters to use their metal blades as they would on other forms.

These panels also have interlocking edges, enabling easy installation.

There are a few advantages of going with a synthetic ice rink versus a refrigerated or natural rink:

It's Cost-Effective

If a cost-effective rink is music to your ears, then a synthetic ice rink is that symphony.

You'd pay a set price for the panels based on your measurements.

However, there won't be any ongoing costs for building the rink infrastructure, refrigeration maintenance, and resurfacing.

A few persons can install synthetic ice rinks in a few hours (if you include the walls).

To date, it's the best way to build a large rink on a budget.

Weather-Proof

Natural rinks are contingent on the cold winter months.

Even outdoor refrigerated rinks last a few months longer.

Because of the materials used in synthetic ice, the rink can stay up all year.

This is excellent news for athletes or trainers who want to use a rink throughout the year.

It provides alternative training options and oppotunities for skaters at any level.

It's Scalable

Ready to build a larger rink?

Do you need to scale it back a bit?

Synthetic ice panels allow just that.

You can easily order, reorder, or disconnect panels as needed.

However, making these changes can be expensive for other types of rinks.

It's Durable

Your investment in a large-scale synthetic can pay off for years to come. Synthetic ice panels can last for at least five years with heavy use.

The more durable commercial panels can last well into ten years if maintained well.

The cost savings go on for years as smaller commercial rinks don't have to spend money removing and reinstalling rinks every year.

Positive Friction

Synthteic ice is the ideal "ice sumulator" for ice skaters much the same way golfers utilize golf simulators and the driving range.

Since the panels aren't natural ice, there is some resistance.

The PolyGlide-Ice infused Pro-Glide panel has roughly 10% more friction than natural ice which can be reduced by using a surface conditioner

 

Commercial Synthetic Ice Rink Tips

If you're ready to build a commercial rink, synthetic ice should be the material of choice.

However, it takes more than ordering your parts and laying them down in your spot of choice.

There are some steps all builders must consider to make the process as cost-effective as possible:

Do it yourself

There's a time versus money dilemma but if you're trying to save money, you'll have to use some time.

Enlist the help of some friends or volunteers and you can set up a synthetic ice rink in a few hours.

The panels interlocking tiles fit together like a puzzle.

Since these panels are larger than tiles, connecting them will be easier.

If you're not handy, you'll need help setting up the rink walls, so make sure there's a handyman on your team. 

Measure Your Area

It sounds like a simple step, but measuring your commercial space can save you money.

Most commercial spaces need to cover a large surface area, but overestimating can mean purchasing ice you do not need.

Instead, spend the time getting the measurements right, accounting for factors like the ice rink's walls.

Tiles or Panels?

Synthetic ice can come in tiles or panels.

Tiles are usually for at-home use or a small group.

Panels are a larger, thicker, and more durable commercial grade surface.

These are perfect for larger rinks or commercial rinks with much more traffic.

Panels are more expensive and need to be freight shipped but will last for years compared to panels.

Make sure to choose the right one for your commercial rink.

Factor in Your Maintenance

Refrigerated rinks need consistent maintenance, which can cost thousands of dollars. Indoor and outdoor rinks would also require different levels of maintenance.

Synthetic ice panels require less maintenance compared to refrigerated or natural rinks.

The rinks need Slip Surface Conditioner application, depending on the foot traffic and surface dust or dirt that is visible.

You'll also need to remove shavings that are common with metal blades. You only need a soft broom to clean it daily.

Don't forget to factor in your maintenance costs.

Consider Collaborating or Sponsorships.

NHL rinks are sponsored by some of the biggest companies in the world.

These sponsorships often offset the cost of maintaining the rink.

So why not do the same?

Collaborate with other businesses through sponsored events or labeled rink walls.

This can make a commercial rink easier to manage and allows you to do it on a budget.

Conclusion 

Operating a commercial ice rink is a great way to earn additional income, increase foot traffic for businesses, and even bring communities together.

However, they are expensive to build and maintain.

Most struggle to keep up with the rising costs of maintenance.

Synthetic ice rinks are a cost-effective option as the panels are durable, easy to install, and provide the same use as other conventional rinks.

For commercial rinks, it's best to communicate with the synthetic ice provider first to discuss your needs.

At PolyGlide Synthetic Ice, we provide synthetic ice panels that can be freight shipped for your first or next commercial rink.

Feel free to reach out to us to bring that dream into a reality

 

 

 

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Do you love ice skating but don't live near a rink?

Or maybe the weather is too hot or cold to enjoy a traditional ice skating session.

The ideal place to ice skate would be right in the comfort of your own home but how can you make that happen?

Have no fear, because with a little bit of work you can convert your garage (or any space) into a home synthetic ice skating rink!

Most skaters do not need a lot of space to train and advance their overall skills.

In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to make this happen.

Synthetic Ice

When most people think of ice skating, they picture a large rink with smooth, cold ice.

However, you can actually skate on many different types of surfaces.

Synthetic ice is made from special polymer material that is designed to replicate the feeling of real ice skating.

This material is often used in training facilities for figure skaters and hockey players because it provides a realistic skating experience.

The great thing about synthetic ice is that it can be used in any climate and doesn't require refrigeration like traditional ice rinks.

This means you can enjoy skating year-round in the comfort of your own home!

Plus setting up a home ice rink is much less expensive than building an outdoor rink.

Start with a Clean Slate

Well, it's finally time to get the garage cleaned out!

Something I think we all tend not to get too excited about.

First, you will need to motivate yourself to clean out the garage.

This may seem like a daunting task, but it's important to remember the result will be well worth it!

Plus, once you get started, it's not really as bad as it seems.

Set aside a day or two where you can focus on cleaning out the garage without any outside distractions.

Maybe utilize the time while you're working with a pair of headphones listening to some tunes or listening to an audible eBook that you've been putting off.

Next, you will need to gather some supplies.

A few trash bags, some old blankets or towels, and some cleaning supplies should do the trick.

Now it's time to start cleaning!

Begin by removing and emptying out all of the clutter from the garage.

This includes old toys, sports equipment, tools, and anything else that you no longer need or use.

You will need to clear out any shelving, bins, or other storage that is taking up space in your garage. 

This means getting rid of anything that you no longer need or use and have been hoarding.

If you haven't used something in over a year, chances are you don't need it.

So get rid of it and organize what's left!

Once the garage is completely cleared out, you can start sweeping and cleaning the floor.

Organize

Once you've gotten rid of all the unnecessary stuff, it's time to start organizing. 

You may want to consider investing in some plastic storage containers and bins so that you can keep the area organized.

This means putting things away and labeling them so you'll know where everything is when you need it which is the ultimate goal! 

You can also invest in some garage shelving to help utilize higher wall areas and spaces for storage.

The most important part of having a clean garage is to make sure it stays that way. 

This means taking the time to sweep and mop on a regular basis. 

You should also make sure to put away things after using them so they don't become cluttered again.

Measure your space

Once you have a cleared area, you can start measuring for your rink.

When measuring, be sure to allow space for your gear and a bench to put on your skates.

You will also want to leave some extra space around the perimeter of your rink so that skaters can move freely without fear of falling into anything.

Measurements are everything when it comes to installing a home synthetic ice rink.

You need to make sure that the space you are using is the correct size, or else you may find yourself with a rink that's too big or small.

It's important to know the purpose of your rink, who it's for and it's intended use.

That will help you determine the size of your rink to fit the space you have to work with.

Measure the length and width of the area where you plan to install your rink.

This is best done with a tape measure, but if you don't have one handy, you can always use a ruler or yardstick.

Area

To determine the total Area of space simply multiply Length X Width which will determine your total square footage.

For example:

• A typical empty 1-car garage measures 12ft wide by 22 feet deep = 264 square feet.
• A typical empty 2-car garage measures 20ft wide by 20 to 22 feet deep = 400-440 square feet.

Your total square footage equals the total area of floor space that you have available.

You would then need to subtract the square footage of the floor space that has been dedicated for storage to get a better dea of the overall available floor space.

Obviously ovehead bins or storage above 7-feet would not impact or impede on your floor space.

 

Ordering Your Rink Package.

When you're looking to buy a synthetic ice rink package, there are a few things you need to consider.

The first is the size of your garage, both the width and length as previously mentioned.

If the space you have available is somewhat limited, say under 150 square feet, you may want to consider using lightweight portable tiles instead of heavier, thicker panels though both would work.

Our PolyGlide Ice portable synthetic ice tiles do provide more of a cost savings as they can be boxed-shipped as opposed to freight shipped.

Our larger, thicker Pro-Glide panels are more rigid, require less seams to assemble and can be utilized for both indoor and outdoor use.

We put together a few common rink packages that are ideal for any garage or home ice rink:

PORTABLE STARTER KITS (1/4"X 24" X 48" TILES):

1 Kit (4X8)- 4 Panels (32 SQUARE FEET WHEN ASSEMBLED)

2 Kits (8X8) - 8 Panels (64 SQUARE FEET WHEN ASSEMBLED)

3 Kits (8X12) - 12 Panels (96 SQUARE FEET WHEN ASSEMBLED)

4 Kits (8X16) - 16 Panels (128 SQUARE FEET WHEN ASSEMBLED)

DEDICATED PRO-GLIDE "CUBE" (1/2" X 46" X 46" PANELS)

8 CUBES (*8X8) POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE PACKAGE 

12 CUBES (*12X16) POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE PACKAGE 

15 CUBES (*12X20) POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE PACKAGE

25 CUBES (*16X20) POLYGLIDE PRO-GLIDE PACKAGE

DEDICATED PRO-GLIDE "FULL" PANELS (1/2" X 46" X 92" PANELS)

PRO-GLIDE INFUSED FULL-SIZE PANEL (46" X 92")

Think about how often you plan on using the rink throughout the year and whether or not a portable option works better for you.

If you only plan on using it occasionally, then a package with fewer accessories may be the best option.

But if you plan on using it frequently, then you may want to consider a package that includes all the bells and whistles.

Also keep in mind, you can always order more in the future!

Now that you have a better idea of what's available regarding the different rink packages it's time to figure out what works best for YOU!

We offer plenty of options, so take your time and as they say, "Measure twice and cut once!"

If you're not quite sure and could use a little help, feel free to reach out to us anytime and we'll help walk you through it.

Installation Time

Installing synthetic ice tiles or panels are relatively an easy task.

Think of it as a flooring lego system that's easy to install and fun to use once you're done!

Take your measuring tape and mark with masking or painters tape where the center width or your rink will be.

To determine the center mark simply dived the width measurement of your rink by two (2).

Then do the same thing for the length to create a center-ice mark for your rink layout.

Then you will be able to determine if you center line should line up with the center of your panel OR the side seam of the panel.

You can lay it out both ways to see what works best for your overall rink layout.

Prep Work and Assembly

Make sure once again before installing your rink that the subsurface has been swept and/or vacumed thoroughly clean.

Be sure to thoroughly inspect the sub-floor for flatness as fixtures such as area drains sometimes has deflection and pitch in the concrete surface to allow for drainage.

If this is the case, you can prep the floor first with an OSB plywood underlayment to insure flatness for the sub-surface prior in installing your new rink.

It's important to note that your synthetic ice surface must be able to expand and contract and must not be mechanically fasted in any way to the sub-floor.

Synthetic ice flooring is very similar to laminate flooring with regards to the necessary prep work required to insure a proper installation.

Once you receive your new panels lay them flat on the floor to let them acclimate to the temperature in the room prior to assembly.

To begin assembly of your new home ice rink panels simply align two panels side-by-side along the dovetail connections and strike firmly with a heavy rubber mallet along the entire seam.

Continue along each seam until all the dovetail panel connections are locked in place and ready for skating!

Accessories 

Once your synthetic ice panels have been installed you can consider adding some fun accessories to spice-up your new rink!

For hockey players, keeping the puck on the surface is always a challenge if you have not installed some type of perimeter dasher system.

There are a few different types of dasher systems available on the market, so be sure to do your research and choose the one that best suits your needs.

For simple puck containment, a 4'X4" pressure-treated railroad around the perimeter will do the job and give your rink rustic look.

Another puck containment option is "The BounceBar" by PolyGlide Ice which offers a rebounding curb feature to help train AND keep your puck on the surface.

Once you have chosen a system, follow the instructions carefully to ensure proper installation.

Keep Your Parking Spot!

PolyGlide Ice, solid core synthetic ice panels are durable and built to last for many years.

There's no need to lose your garage parking space to accommodate your new rink project.

Simply cover your ice with a tarp or rink blankets to prevent oil or grease from dripping on the surface.

The weight of the car has no impact on the panel performance or guarantee throughout the lifetime of the panel.

This is what makes the average garage space the number one most popular location for many of our home ice rink customers!

Hit the Ice!

Now that your rink is built, it’s time to start skating!

Once your new surface has been installed you are ready for your first skate!

You will need a few strides to get used to the “feel” of your new rink.

Synthetic ice requires slightly more effort than natural ice but you'll soon see that you'll be able to make all the same maneuvers on your new rink!

Be sure to invite all of your friends and family over for a skate party!

With your new home ice rink, you can skate anytime you want, day or night!

Just be sure to keep your rink well-maintained so that it can be enjoyed for years to come.

Maintenance

Synthetic ice rinks do require regular maintenance depending on the amount of use and dirt that accumulates on the surface.

Keeping your rink free of dirt, dust and debris by using a cover is a great way to limit the amount of extra clean-up for outdoor rink.

Be sure to broom or vacuum your surface regularly to reduce the amount of shavings while skating (note: shavings are recyclable)

One good tip for hockey players is to use white tape on your stick blades to limit the amount of scuffing on your rink surface.

CONCLUSION

Now that you have all the information you need it's time to start considering your home garage rink project!

You'd be suprised on how quickly you can convert any space into your own home ice rink.

With a little bit of effort, you can enjoy lacing-up anytime throughout the year with unlimited ice time whenever YOU want it!. 

Be sure to check our our full line of rink packages to learn more about our products and how we can help you create your own home ice rink!

We have created a FAQ page along with videos to help you learn a little more about this versatile new product that is changing the way people utilizing their own persomal ice time.

So have some fun and start creating and we'll have you ice skating in no time!