How to Build a Half-Pipe

Building a halfpipe ramp and platform for skating is not difficult with the proper tools and some basic instructions. When constructed correctly, you will be able to enjoy hours of recreation without having to leave home to go to a skate park. You may want to enlist the help of a couple of friends to help provide a couple of extra sets of hands during the assembly.

Things You'll Need

• 8 sheets of ¾ inch plywood
• 2x4 inch stock
• 10-foot long PVC pipe
• Laminate
• Nails
• 1 ½ inch screws
• Hammer
• Circular saw
• Drill and a set of bits
• Tape measure
• Fishing line
• Pencil and paper

Instructions

1. Lay out your frame. You want to have two symmetrical sides. Build a structure that’s about 4 feet wide and 8 feet long from the 2x4 inch stock. The base must be in two sections measuring 4 feet by 8 feet with floor joists spaced about 7 and 7/8 feet apart. Now lay the vertical and side horizontal bracing on its side. It should measure 3 feet and 3 inches high. You should now have three sections in all. Use your fishing line to lay out a curve with a 5 foot, 7-½ inch radius. This will be the bowl of the halfpipe. Build the side bracing using the radius line to mark the support areas. Your bottom supports should double up with the base and vertical support systems.

2. Connect the two vertical support sides with cross members. These should be about 7 ½ inches apart. Make sure the cross members line up with the plywood seams so the plywood won’t separate while in use.

3. Attach your plywood decking material with 3 inch screws. For the ramp and starting platform, you’ll want to double up on the decking. Joists should support the starting platform so it can hold several people at once.

4. Where the horizontal starting platform and the vertical decking meet is known as the grinding rail. Here, you need to install something to reduce damage to both the horizontal board and the vertical decking. Take the 10-foot long PVC pipe and screw it to the support system and the plywood. One screw for every 7 to 10 inches of length will do nicely. This will provide a “cushion” to the transition area. Make sure every section is secure. You're done!

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer, you may want to apply a smoother surface onto the ramp to give a better ride. Your local home improvement store will supply you with plenty of ideas.

• If you cannot use the half pipe year-round where you live, keep in mind while you’re building that you’ll have to disassemble it at the start of the off season. Decide where the best disassembly points are based on your storage capabilities. Remember that screws are easier to remove than nails.

• Cover your halfpipe with waterproof sheeting to protect it from bad weather.

• Check the stability of your halfpipe often and replace weak or rotting areas as soon as possible to avoid risk of injury.