How to Make a Half Pipe

Used for extreme sports such as snowboarding, in-line skating, freestyle BMX, or skateboarding, a half pipe is a popular ramp because by its design, it allows for the rider to continuously perform tricks while obtaining vertical heights not achievable with other types of ramps. Its design and structure resemble a cross-section of a typical pool or a pipe, and plywood is the most common material being used for construction. You can make your own half pipe with common building materials and a few simple tools.

Things You'll Need

  • 8 sheets 3/4-inch plywood
  • 2-by-4-inch boards
  • 10-feet PVC pipe
  • Laminate
  • Hammer
  • Electric drill
  • Nails
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Instructions

    • 1

      Design the layout of the frame. It should be a structure that consists of two symmetrical sides.

    • 2

      Use 2-by-4s and prepare the main bracing. It should be about 8-feet long and 4-feet wide and about 3 foot-3 inches high.

    • 3

      Construct the base using 4-by-8-inch sections as the floor supports placed about 7 7/8 inches apart.

    • 4

      Lay the side bracing on its side with the vertical bracing facing each other. Build a finishing line to create a curve design with 5-foot-7 1/2-inch radius. This will make up the bowl of the half pipe.

    • 5

      Connect the vertical support cross-members while connecting the sides with 7-1/2-inches distance from each other. Bend the cross-members towards the seams of the plywood.

    • 6

      Screw a 10-foot PVC pipe to the plywood and support system for cushion support to the area of transition.

    • 7

      Attach the plywood to the frame to form a platform. Bend the decking and use 3-inch screws to fit the decking into the frame and to prepare the ramp.

    • 8

      Nail the ramp surface to attach the plywood to get the half pipe ready for use.