What is a good temperature to start freezing the ice? If the temperature says -3 celsius, but feels like -8 celsius, which one matters for ice making?
The optimal temperature range for freezing your rink is between -10 and -20 celsius (+14 to -4 fahrenheit). When it comes to which temperature to pay attention to, the 'feels like' is in reference to how your body will feel when you step outside. For ice making, always rely on the ambient temperature.
What is the best way to protect the grass from being damaged?
Your best bet is to put a tarp or a white plastic liner down on the grass before you begin the ice making process. When the temperatures start to warm up in the late winter and early spring, it's best to pump the water off your rink to avoid damage. Pump the water off in to sunny areas where the water will melt and evaporate quicker. Once the rink is gone, give the grass a good rake allowing the lawn to breathe and start its summer growth.
When flooding is it best to scrape and leave some snow in the skate ruts or should you sweep them all out and let the warm water find its way in?
Depending on the size of your rink, it's best to try and remove as much snow as you can from skate ruts and edges before flooding.
What's the best way to build a rink when the yard has a slope?
Depending on how long you plan to make rinks in the back yard, the best way is to try and build up your yard using soil over time to create a level base. If you're looking for a quicker fix, using sheets of plywood and probing them up to create a level surface works as well. When using plywood, be sure to cover it up with a liner or tarp before making ice.
What causes blistering and how do you prevent it from happening?
Blistering is the two layers of the water when it starts to freeze from your initial sheet that you have versus the new ice you're laying down. What can happen is sometimes if you put down too much water is it will freeze from the top and air will get trapped underneath. When flooding, 'less is more'. To prevent this from happening, use a mist spray setting on your hose to provide an even flood to prevent blistering.
Is it ok to make ice with cold water? Or should you always use warm water?
Yes, using cold water is just fine to make your backyard rink. If the temperature is in the -10 to -20 celsius range your water can be cold or warm. When the temperature is colder than -20 it's best to flood your rink with warmer water for best results.
What is the best way to paint lines on my rink?
You can absolutely use paint on your rink to give it a fun look. However, paint can be messy. One way to avoid the mess is using a non-woven tissue paper. Another solution is using streamers from your local party store as well as yarn. When using paper products, be sure to roll the air out for a crisp line look. When putting in line, freeze them close to the top of the sheet.
