How to Make Ice Rink Brackets

Ice rink brackets are used around the perimeter of backyard ice rinks to support the frame of the rink. They are essential components of any homemade ice rink, because they also support the weight of the ice in the rink. The constant expansion and contraction of the ice puts a lot of stress on the frame of the rink. Ice rink brackets hold the entire construction project together. The size of the brackets depends upon the size of the rink. Typical backyard ice rink frames are about 12 inches high.

Things You'll Need

  • Pressure treated two-by-four lumber
  • 12-inch galvanized spikes
  • 3-inch screws
  • Circular saw
  • Power drill
  • Power screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • 2 Workhorses
  • Safety glasses
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose an indoor or outdoor work space. Set up the two workhorses on a level surface.

    • 2

      Cut two pieces of two-by-four lumber to measure 12 inches long. One piece will be the bottom of the bracket that will rest flat on the ground, while the other piece will be the end that will screw against the frame of the rink.

    • 3

      Cut another piece of two-by-four lumber to measure 9 inches long with 45-degree ends. This will be the top of the bracket that will rest diagonally to the frame of the rink.

    • 4

      Cut a small piece of two-by-four lumber to measure 3 inches long. This will serve as a support for the piece of wood with 45-degree ends.

    • 5

      Place one of the 12-inch long boards flat on the ground. Place the 3-inch long piece of wood on top of the board, flush with the end. Screw the wood into place. Make sure to leave room in the center of the wood for a hole to be drilled later.

    • 6

      Screw the other 12-inch-long board into the other end of the bottom of the bracket to form an "L."

    • 7

      Screw the board with the angle cuts to the "L" to form a triangle. You may need help from another person to hold the "L" steady.

    • 8

      Drill a hole through the two pieces of wood that form the front of the bracket. Later, you will hammer the 12-inch galvanized spike through this hole and into the ground to anchor the bracket.

    • 9

      Repeat these steps for the construction of additional brackets, keeping in mind that a bracket should be placed every 4 feet around the perimeter of the rink.