How to Build a Cheap Skate Ramp

Ramps built for skating vary in size and shape depending on the intended use. Kicker ramps, also commonly referred to as launch ramps, aid in high altitude grabs and flip tricks. A prominent discipline of skateboarding, referred to as vert skating, takes place on a half pipe ramp that features a horseshoe shape. Concrete remains the ideal building material for skate ramps due to its ability to withstand harsh climates and conditions. However, concrete ramps cost a great deal to construct. Create an inexpensive skate ramp using a few simple tools and materials.

Things You'll Need

  • 4-by-8 plywood, 3/4-inch thick
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Jigsaw
  • Log
  • Electric drill
  • 1-inch screws
  • 1-by-3 piece of sheet metal
  • Cinder blocks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your skate ramp supplies near a covered shelter that features an electrical outlet. Lower your piece of plywood onto the ground. Extend the blade of your tape measure across the middle of the plywood. Draw a pencil line to divide the wood into two identical 4-by-4 pieces.

    • 2

      Follow the pencil line with the jigsaw to cut the plywood. Place one of the pieces of plywood into the covered storage to act as a backup for your skate ramp. Locate a large hardwood log. Rotate the log and place it horizontally on the ground of the construction site.

    • 3

      Lower the edge of the plywood over the top of the log. Insert the plug of your electric drill into an electrical outlet. Drill six to eight screws through the top of the plywood and into the wooden log. Make sure to spread the screws an equal distance apart down the length of the hardwood log.

    • 4

      Rest the piece of sheet metal over the bottom edge of the plywood. Allow at least half of the sheet metal to touch the ground of your construction site. Drill one screw through the top right and left corner of the sheet metal to create a roll up for your skate ramp.

    • 5

      Transport the inclined skate ramp to your desired skating location. Slide two cinder blocks under the plywood of the ramp to create a supportive foundation. Walk up the ramp slowly to ensure it can support your body weight. Skate up the ramp to test the construction of the roll up.