Did you know that the first organized ice hockey game was played in Montreal, Canada, in 1875? While Canada is often credited with modernizing the sport, hockey's roots trace back over 4,000 years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Persia. From a historic pastime to a globally beloved sport, hockey is a game that unites fans worldwide. With winter just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about setting up your ice rink, and the key to success lies in choosing the best ice rink poly.
As summer ends and fall ushers in cooler weather, many families trade their warm-weather hobbies for winter activities. If you’re gearing up for backyard skating sessions or a friendly hockey game, selecting the right ice rink poly is essential to ensure your rink lasts all season long.
One of the most important factors when selecting your ice rink poly is thickness. For optimal results, your poly liner should be at least 5.0 mil thick and white in color. These specifications help maintain the rink's integrity, reducing the need for time-consuming repairs during the season. A thinner or darker poly liner may result in maintenance issues that could melt your plans faster than a mid-season warm spell.
While every hockey enthusiast dreams of a full NHL-sized rink in their backyard, it’s important to select an ice rink poly that suits your available space. At Polytarp Products, we offer ice rink poly liners in various sizes, ranging from 20 feet to over 60 feet wide. The ice should have a minimum thickness of 3 inches and a maximum of 9 inches. To prevent leaks, make sure your liner is large enough to tuck into corners and overlap any boards or framing.
In addition to size, it’s wise to leave extra material beyond the rink’s edge. This precaution helps secure the liner and prevents leaks during the freezing process. The customizable nature of Polytarp’s ice rink poly ensures you’ll find the perfect fit for your backyard, regardless of size.
For durability, always opt for a polyethylene film that’s at least 5.0 mil thick. This thickness is crucial for holding water in place until it freezes, while also preventing tears from sharp objects like skates or debris. Lighter-gauge poly is prone to punctures, which can result in rink failure.
Additionally, thicker ice rink poly provides greater protection against fluctuating temperatures. In regions where winter weather can range between freezing and thawing, a durable poly liner will help maintain the integrity of your rink throughout the season.
When it comes to selecting ice rink poly, color is just as important as size and thickness. A white liner reflects the sun’s rays, helping maintain a strong, solid ice surface, even on warmer days. In contrast, darker-colored liners (blue or black) absorb heat, causing weak spots in the ice and dangerous cracks.
White ice rink poly also prevents the formation of soft patches. By reflecting the sun's rays, a white liner ensures even freezing across the rink, creating a safer and more enjoyable skating surface.
Proper installation of your ice rink poly liner is crucial for a successful skating season. Select a flat area with minimal sunlight and easy access to water. As you install the liner, flatten any creases and clear away debris that could interfere with the freezing process.
After setting up your ice rink poly liner, inspect it for any punctures or damage—especially if it was stored in a garage or shed during the warmer months. If you find any small tears, they can easily be patched with poly adhesive or appropriate tape.
Maintaining your ice rink poly and the ice surface itself is vital for keeping your rink in top condition. After every skating session, be sure to shovel, scrape, and resurface the ice with water. These simple steps will keep the ice smooth and ready for use at any time.
Invest in quality tools like a good shovel and scraper to regularly clear snow and debris from the rink. Always add a fresh layer of water after heavy use to keep your ice pristine, ensuring uninterrupted skating fun for your family all season long.
Always check your local weather forecast for cold, dry conditions, which are ideal for setting up and maintaining your ice rink. Consistently low temperatures ensure your ice rink poly will hold water properly and freeze evenly. Although it can be tempting to set up early, waiting for sustained freezing temperatures is the key to a long-lasting rink.
Regularly monitor the thickness of your ice to ensure it’s safe for skating. Thinner ice tends to form around the edges of your ice rink poly, where water may not freeze as uniformly. Be cautious of any cracks or bubbles in the ice, as they can indicate weak spots.
Once the winter season comes to an end, don’t discard your ice rink poly liner. With proper care, many liners can be reused for multiple seasons, making it a cost-effective choice. Before storing your liner, ensure it’s thoroughly dried to prevent mold or mildew. Fold it carefully and store it in a cool, dry place for next winter.
Many Polytarp customers are able to get several seasons of use from their ice rink poly, ensuring their investment in quality pays off year after year.
By following these guidelines, you’ll extend the durability of your ice rink poly and enjoy a winter filled with fun on a smooth, safe ice surface in your very own backyard. With Polytarp Products, you can count on long-lasting, high-quality ice rink poly liners that make building and maintaining your rink easier than ever.
Click here for more information on our ice rink poly products.
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)
.svg)