During the winter, ice skating is a fun and exciting pastime that many people look forward to. Indoor ice rinks are an excellent alternative because not everyone has access to natural ice rinks. Continue reading to learn how to create an indoor ice rink.
Determine the area where the rink will be built first. The location should be level, flat, and devoid of any obstructions. The amount of space at hand will determine the size of the rink. A tiny rink should be at least 20 feet by 40 feet in size, while a regulation-size rink should be up to 85 feet by 200 feet.
Install the required hardware next. This consists of a cooling system, dash boards, and a netting barrier system. The most crucial part of an indoor ice rink is the cooling system. It is in charge of keeping the ice’s surface at a temperature of 16 to 21 degrees Fahrenheit. The dasher boards serve as a barrier between the ice and the spectators and serve to confine the ice. The barrier netting system is meant to shield the audience from skaters and pucks that may fly their way.
The ice-making process can start once the equipment has been installed. Foam boards or insulation blankets can be used to create a first layer of insulation. This aids in keeping warm air outside and cold air inside. Laying down a layer of plastic or polyethylene sheets is the next stage. Between the insulation and the ice surface, this serves as a barrier.
The ice-making process can start after the plastic sheeting is put in position. The base layer of ice is created by applying a thin coating of water to the surface, which then freezes. Until the ice is the required thickness, the process is repeated. The ice’s thickness is determined by the rink’s intended purpose. A thickness of 1 to 1.5 inches is adequate for recreational skating. A thickness of 1.25 to 1.5 inches is suggested for hockey games.
Let’s now address a few of the pertinent queries. Depending on the size and style of rink, constructing an ice rink in the UK might be expensive. A smaller recreational rink can run you from £20,000 to £30,000, while a bigger regulation-size rink can set you back as much as £150,000.
The neighborhood council, North Tyneside Council, is the owner of the ice rink in Whitley Bay. It is a well-liked recreation center where ice hockey matches, figure skating instruction, and public skating sessions are held.
Whether or whether you should shut off the ice machine is a matter of preference. When not in use, the ice maker should be turned off to conserve energy and avoid any issues. However, keeping it on can guarantee that you always have access to fresh ice.