How to Build a Rock Climbing Wall

Want to build a rock climbing wall in your own home? If you're not a professional builder or architect, you will need to consult a pro just to be sure that your structure is safe. But once you take care of the safety issues, the rest of the construction process is fairly simple. It's easier than you think to build a rock climbing wall.

Things You'll Need

• Professional builder or contractor
• Climbing holds
• Latex Paint
• Sand
• Cushioning material

Instructions

1. 

   PLAN. Proper planning is very important to build a rock climbing wall. Consult a professional builder or rock climbing wall designer to be sure that you build a structure that can support the right amount of weight. In the course of planning, consider the size, location, and incline of the wall.

2. 

   BUY HOLDS. Once your rock climbing wall is constructed, you'll need to buy rock climbing holds. Climbing holds are available from a variety of sources. Just Google "rock climbing holds," and you'll find websites that sell holds both individually and as sets. If you're on a budget, local indoor climbing gyms are a potential source for discounted climbing holds. Many times a gym will sell old holds to individuals who want to make their own climbing walls.

3. PAINT. The last step to build a rock climbing wall involves finishing off the wall surface. Whether you're going for a realistic rock look or want a fun, colorful motif, you'll need to finish off your wall with several coats of latex paint mixed with sand. The latex paint will be durable, and the sand provides texture.

4. PROVIDE CUSHION. Falls are an inevitable part of rock climbing. Be sure to safeguard yourself and your family by providing a soft space to land. Appropriate cushion materials include wood chips, recycled rubber tire bits, and even thick pile carpet. The type of material you use depends on the size of your wall, the skill level of the climbers, and the rock climbing wall location.

Tips & Warnings

• If you really want to build your climbing wall yourself, you can buy premade rock climbing wall panels online.

• To build an outdoor rock wall, you'll have to take special weather-proof precautions. An outdoor wall requires specially-treated wood and rust-proof hardware.

• Rock climbing holds are available in a variety of fun sizes and shapes. You can literally find every shape under the sun, including whimsical holds shaped like animals. Holds are also available for all levels of climbers: bigger holds are available for children while dime-sized holds are available for advanced climbers. Consult a professional route setter for ideas on what types of holds to buy.

• Ask your climbing hold manufacturer if they have "seconds." You may be able to purchase factory second holds at a discount.

• It's important to have a professional plan your wall. You want to be sure that the structure will safely support all the weight it needs to.