Hey everybody,

I am following the template listed elsewhere on Backyard-hockey.com for a 24 x 40 rink. I'm a first-timer, and having a backyard rink has been a dream of mine ever since I was a kid in Western Mass. on the pond behind our house.

After measuring my yard's slope, I think I am going to go with 2-foot high boards because I have a 12-inch slope to deal with.

Since my boards will be higher, should I get a bigger liner? Or maybe go 18 inches on the boards and keep the liner size listed in the template?

Also, what are your opinions on rebar vs. wooden stakes for board support?

Love the site and have been reading the crap out of everything here, all very well-written. Thanks!

Hey Matt,

Welcome to the site. I don't know the details of the template but I'm going to assume that Joe put that together based on a close-to-level yard. I guess it comes down to what you want to do with your rink

A) Do you want the liner to go entirely over the boards and secure it that way? If so, you are more than likely going to need a wider tarp, so instead of say, a 28' wide tarp, you may want a 30' wide tarp to account for the extra foot.

B) If you already have your tarp bought and don't mind securing the tarp to the front of the boards via staples, you should be good with a 28' wide tarp as long as you have room above your highest water level.

As for rebar vs wooden stakes, I think this is a preference thing. I don't use rebar but others swear by it. As long as your supports are strong enough to handle the pressure from the water, you should be good to go.

I guess now I'm going to have to go read that template for 24x40 rink.

Cheers
Kevin

I went and read the "How To" on Backyard-hockey.com and Joe suggests a 32′x45′ tarp so I think this will still be plenty wide enough for a 24'x40' rink with 2' boards on the one end.

Good luck.
Kevin

Ah, you beat me to it. Was just posting a link. Thanks

If you are unsure, you can always order a wider tarp and cut it. My rink is 32' wide with 3'/4' high boards and I get a 40' tarp then trim the excess above my puck boards.

Yeah, the 32' width should work (as your total boards + ground coverage will be 28'), but if you're going 2' all around, it's going to be really tough on the 45' length. I'd suggest a larger liner just because you'll never get it flush to the ground (there will be wrinkles). 32x50 or thereabouts will give you plenty.

Joe,

Where can get a 32x50 liner? Any recommendations?

Thanks,

Matt

I am sure there are a number of great places but I was referred to bluelakeplastics.com and have been VERY happy with it. Enjoy!

Deke