Liner Notes: Your Ice Rink Tarp Questions, Answered

Summer is winding down, which means parents all across the country are looking ahead to the sports their children will play this fall and winter. Hockey, for example, has continued to grow in popularity, as approximately 519,417 people registered as hockey players during the 2013-2014 season -- and that doesn't even take casual enthusiasts into account! Backyard ice rinks can be a great way for your kids to stay active and participate in activities they love during the coldest months of the year.

However, building a homemade ice rink takes a bit of preparation. It's never too early to start thinking ahead to your rink's installation. Therefore, we've compiled a few FAQs on one of your ice rink's most important components: your ice rink liners.

Do the size of ice rink tarps really matter?
Yes! The size of your rink should determine the size of the ice rink tarps you choose. The liner should be at least five feet longer (both length-wise and width-wise) than your rink frame. In other words, you'll need to know the size of your frame and add five to each measurement to find the correct size of your liner. When ice rink tarps are too small, they won't work correctly. Keep in mind that you can always fix a too-big tarp to fit.

What color liner should I buy?
Your liner should be white on both sides. There are other varieties out there, like black and white combinations and clear versions, but these have been shown to kill the grass underneath your rink. A totally white tarp will protect your lawn and will keep the ice colder due to its UV reflective properties.

When should I install the liner into the rink?
While you can start installing your rink's frame in early fall, in some locations, most experts recommend that you wait until the last possible moment to lay your liner down. You'll need at least three days of cold temperatures for the ice to set. And if you put your liner down too soon, you may have to deal with debris, sticks, leaves, and animal activity. Our advice? Keep an eye on the forecast and tentatively aim for Thanksgiving or a little later.

Ready to start getting all of your backyard ice rink equipment? We're here to help. For more information, get in touch with our experts today.