Newbie Ice Question

[UrbanRinkDad]

Thanks for this informative site and forum. It's been very useful in helping me get going with my rink.

I'm in Chicago and I just recently completed a backyard rink for the first time. It's an urban rink (20' x 32') so it's a postage stamp compared to others I've seen. It's sitting on a slab-on grade concrete. There's a little bit of slope on the site, about 5+" from shallow to deep end. I did a single fill with about 8+" of water on the deep end and 2+" towards the shallow corner. The temperature has been below freezing four straight days with nighttime temps in the teens. The ice surface has turned out very well, few imperfections and pretty clear. The shallow end is frozen solid but the deep end has about 4" (measured at the corner) of ice and 4" of water under it. Should I expect the rest of the water to freeze solid and do I need to have all 8" freeze solid before I can use it?

Thanks.

[Joe]

It may freeze solid if temps are cold enough, but it doesn't have to - otherwise we'd never get to skate on ponds. All you need is enough ice to support your weight, which you'll know by slowly stepping on the deep end. If water seeps up around the sides, then you're too heavy (though your kids might be able to skate). If it holds, with no seepage, you're ready to go! Just know that if you have a skate party, the extra weight may push the slab down further. Just keep an eye out for seeping water.

[UrbanRinkDad]

Good to know. It definitely supports me without creaking or seepage so that's a good sign. We're very excited to try it out. Sadly, we may have some temps in the 50s with rain next week, so we'll see how well the ice holds up. The good thing is that the entire area is shaded from the sun.

Thanks for the info.

[jdpinckney22]

Here in CT, I am not sure we ever freeze solid so you can definitely walk/skate before it is solid. Also, I get some seeping on the sides for a good while, and as long as its not severe, it doesn't stop the kids from skating. Just go easy and see how it goes. Good luck and enjoy the new rink!

Jenn