Instructions for Free Skate Ramps

Often a trip to the skate park is time and/or cost prohibitive and even with pads, street skating can be dangerous. There may be room in the yard to build a mini park, but skate ramps look complicated and expensive to build. A cinder block ledge ramp is simple enough to construct and with a bit of alert dumpster diving, the parts are free. An added bonus is that the whole family can participate in the project.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 Cinder blocks
  • Construction Adhesive
  • ¾ inch plywood - 7 1/2" --- 5' 5"
  • Sand paper
  • Sealant
  • Gloves
  • Safety goggles
  • Hacksaw
  • 2 steel angles - 2---2---1/4" x 5' 5"
  • Weights
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Instructions

    • 1
      Ask permission before taking materials from local work sites.

      Collect the pieces. Cinder blocks and plywood are easily found scavenging the trash of local construction and home improvement businesses. It is always a good idea to ask before helping yourself. Ensure the blocks are not cracked, damaged or badly pitted and that the plywood is not splitting or cracked. Discarded bed frames serve well for the steel angles.

    • 2

      Choose the location for your cinder block ledge ramp. It will weigh up to 130 pounds when complete and will be difficult to move; make sure there is enough room for safe usage.

    • 3

      Glue the cinder blocks end to end with the openings facing up with construction adhesive. Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    • 4
      Use sealant to protect the plywood against the weather.

      Cut the plywood with a hacksaw to fit edge to edge over the cinder block base. Sand it smooth and seal it for protection against the weather. When the sealant is dry, affix the plywood to the cinder blocks using construction adhesive; again allow it to cure according to the manufacturer's directions.

    • 5

      Measure the steel angles for length against the partially constructed ledge ramp and cut to size. Sand the ends smooth and attach; use a generous amount of construction adhesive on both legs of the angle. Put weights on the top angle while it dries to ensure a strong bond.