How Do I Build a Half Pipe Skateboarding Ramp?

Half pipes are among the most fun ramps for skateboarding. Building a half pipe can be a daunting task, especially for someone with no carpentry or construction experience. With the right plans, tools, materials and site, the endeavor behind building a half pipe will pale in comparison to the fun, exercise and memories that can be had on the ramp once completed.

  1. The Ends Justify the Effort

    • Decide what size half pipe you want to build. Larger half pipes are more difficult to skate and require more skill to master. They also require more materials, more space and labor to build and therefore cost more. The tricks performed on half pipes taller than six feet or vert (short for vertical) ramps are different from those on smaller (mini) half pipes. While vert skaters tend to focus on aerial tricks (tricks performed in the air), mini half skaters tend to focus on lip tricks and flip tricks.

      Once you've determined the size of your half pipe, secure some good plans. Skateboard shops, online vendors, skateboard magazines and private individuals will carry plans for half pipes. Make sure that the plans are detailed and easy to understand. Don't purchase any blueprints or plans without seeing what they contain. Good plans will have large sections of important details, such as important joints or where the coping--the metal pipe that runs along the seam of the transition and the platform--meets the top of the ramp.

      Now make a list of all the materials you'll need for the construction process. Be very precise about what kinds and sizes for woods, screws and piping you'll need. Carpentry also requires a diverse set of tools including saws, a hammer, a level, a t-square, etc. Ask friends with woodworking experience for help and always obey safety practices when using saws or other power tools.

      Find a good spot to build the half pipe. The ideal site for a half pipe is on level ground, well-lit and dry with few trees. Once the ramp is built, it's impossible to move so your construction area will be the permanent site for the ramp. Keep in mind that skateboarding can be very loud and neighbors may complain. Also, check with your local Home Owners Association for any restrictions about building skateboard ramps.

      Armed with the proper plans, tools, materials and a good site for the ramp, you're ready to begin the construction process. Be realistic about how long it will take to complete the project. Depending on your level of expertise and amount of labor available to you, the project may take a long time to complete. Make daily goals and a schedule to help you stay focused and motivated from conception to completion. And be sure to keep your construction site clean, uncluttered and safe at all times. A half pipe is a large, heavy and potentially dangerous structure so follow your plans as best as you can and do not improvise, unless your level of carpentry and construction skills is superior. When you've completed your half pipe, grab your skateboard, your protective gear and start skateboarding.