How to Build a Zip Line for Kids
A zip line is a system consisting of a rope and a pulley that allows one to get from one point to another quickly and directly. If constructed properly, a zip line can be a fun addition to your home. It can promote your child's imagination and encourage physical activity. If you are considering constructing a zip line for kids it is important to build one that will be safe as well as fun to use.
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Things You'll Need
- Nylon or polyethylene rope
- Zip line pulley
- Handle (such as an old bicycle handle)
- Two sturdy trees or similar objects to tie your rope to
- Drill (optional)
- Optional hardware including screw in hooks and a steel link
Instructions
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Choose two points from which the zip line rider will depart from and arrive to. The area between these two points should be clear of obstacles in order to allow for a safe ride. Also, the departure point should be higher than the arrival point. Large trees usually make for good choices.
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Securely tie one end of your nylon rope to the exit point. This point will ideally be low enough for the rider to be able to stand when outstretched. In order to prevent the rope from slipping downwards when a rider's weight is added on, additional hardware such as a screwed in hook may be necessary depending on what object you have chosen for our exit point.
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Loop the pulley through the free end of your nylon rope
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Securely tie the other end of the rope to the starting point. You want the rope to be as taught as possible so that it does not sag when the weight of the rider is on it. Make sure that the starting point is higher than the exit point so that the weight of the rider and gravity will let the rider freely drift towards the exit point.
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Fasten the chosen handle to the pulley. The handle can be anything as long as it is safe and comfortable for the rider to hold onto. An old bicycle handle works well but anything from an old grip from a home gym to a short metal bar will work. Ideally, you will be able to attach the handle to the pulley with a small length of your rope but some drilling may be necessary if the handle offers nothing to loop your rope through. Alternatively a steel link can be substituted for the rope.
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Test the zip line before allowing a child to play on it. Start by testing the attachment of your nylon rope to the two points. If they come loose while a rider is still on the zip line injury could occur. Do this by holding the heaviest child the zip line is designed for in place at both ends and in the middle. If the zip line is not too far from the ground an adult can also hold on and slightly lift their feet from the ground. Check for sagging and strain on the rope.
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Check the speed at which the rider will fly towards the exit. If the departure is too high above the exit then the rider may move too quickly. Note that the angle of the rope is proportionally related to the speed of the ride. This could result in an unsafe collision between the rider and the exit point if it is not checked first. Check the speed by attaching a heavy object with a weight similar to that of the intended rider and send it down the zip line. If the object crashes or crashes too forcefully into the object the exit point is tied to then the departure point should be lowered. Again, if the zip line is close enough to the ground an adult may also take the zip line for a spin and set their feet down if they feel that the speed of the zip line becomes too great.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are having trouble making the rope taut, soak it in water before installation. This will cause the rope to expand. After you finish tying the ropes down then let it dry. The rope will shrink back to its original size and cause the line to be tighter.
Burning the rope to melt it together at the ends can help ensure the integrity of the line at both ends.
Check for rope integrity every time the zip line going to be used. It is common for knots to loosen after repeated use and exposure to the weather.
It may be beneficial to pad the object the exit point is tied to prevent injuries from a crash.
If using tools always follow proper safety guidelines and wear protective gear as necessary.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Sean Murphy/Digital Vision/Getty Images
