How to Design a Rock Climbing Wall

Rock climbing is an exhilarating and challenging sport. To fine-tune their climbing technique before heading out to the big wall, many look to indoor climbing walls, which are much more forgiving. However, many choose to install a climbing wall in their home or garage for the ultimate in climbing convenience.

Things You'll Need

  • Climbing literature, catalogs, magazines
  • Paper and drawing supplies
  • Tape measure
  • Stud sensor
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin the process by visiting climbing gyms, browsing through magazines and looking at climbing equipment manufacturer catalogs. The purpose is to get a feel for what it is you want to build. You can get great ideas for your own wall and find a wide variety of holds, which can be ordered and incorporated into your wall.

    • 2

      Measure the space in which you will be constructing the climbing wall. Before putting pencil to paper you will need to have an idea of the amount of space available for your climbing wall.

    • 3

      Find the wall support studs in the project area. Also consider overhead supports if you are thinking of adding an overhanging ledge design to your wall. Studs will be crucial in anchoring your wall.

    • 4

      Draw a rough sketch of the wall design you want to construct. Take into consideration the elements you may want to incorporate, such as overhangs, crevices and other features. Use this step to narrow down the possibilities and begin to get a true feel for what it is you want to build. Also consider your handholds as far as placement or spacing.

    • 5

      Draw the wall in detail. This step should be done to scale and incorporate the handholds you wish to use at the appropriate distances. This will be, for all intents and purposes, your design blueprint from which to build. All elements should be to scale regarding size and position.

    • 6

      Assuming you have settled upon the size and type of holds you will be using, you will now need to address the wall surface itself. There are several ways to go here, including a natural rough finish, a sanded and varnished finish, painted, or painted texture finish. Many find the rough painted texture finish appealing as this simulates the feel of real rock material.