How to Build a Hockey Net

Backyard, street or pond hockey is a popular pastime from Manitoba to Miami and beyond. These games obviously require a hockey net, but galvanized steel goals used in actual ice and roller hockey are simply too heavy and large to haul around--leaving many do-it-yourself enthusiasts to make their own net rather than purchase a commercial variety. Your net can be sized according to taste; however, this article will cover making a standard, regulation-size hockey net.

Things You'll Need

  • 33 feet of 1 1/2-inch PVC piping
  • Tape measure
  • Black marker
  • PVC saw
  • PVC glue and primer
  • 2 PVC T-joints
  • 6 PVC 45-degree elbows
  • 6-foot by 4-foot replacement netting
  • Velcro tabs
  • Red spray paint (optional)
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Measure and cut the 33-foot piece of PVC into the following increments: two 72-inch lengths, one 6-foot length, two 48-inch lengths and two 36-inch pieces. Label each length as indicated: “crossbar” for the 72- inch lengths, “support” for the 6-footer, “posts” for each 48-inch piece and “sidearm” for each 36-inch piece.

    • 2

      Attach a T joint to each end of the support piece and set aside. Cut each crossbar in half, making four individual pieces, and insert each piece into the open ends of the T joints. Attach an elbow joint to each post; attach elbow pieces to remaining ends of each post, turning the elbows so that the opening is perpendicular to the opposite elbow joints.

    • 3

      Attach each post to the ends of the one of the crossbars, thus creating the basic frame of the hockey net. Insert each 36-inch sidearm into the remaining two elbow joints, then attach the ends of the remaining crossbar into final openings. You now have the complete framework of the net.

    • 4

      Inspect the net to ensure all ends are even and your net is not slanted or off kilter. Apply primer and glue each joint to hold the net together permanently. Spread the replacement net over the frame and use the Velcro strips to attach the net to frame along the crossbars, posts and sidearm lengths. Paint the top crossbar and posts red to simulate the look of a commercially made hockey goal.