Built right, the first time.
How we build it.
Every installation follows a proven four-step process—methodical, documented, and designed to move your rink from site preparation to ice as efficiently as possible.
A stable base comes first.
We begin by assessing the site, establishing the rink footprint, and levelling the base using heavy-duty steel brackets or suspended timber subframes. This approach allows us to accommodate grade changes of up to 24 inches while creating the flat, stable foundation required for a high-performing rink.
The rink floor and cooling system take shape.
Once the base is levelled, we route the oxygen-barrier glycol grid across the rink floor, connect it to the chiller system, and complete pressure testing. A virgin multi-layer polyethylene liner is then laid over the base, ready to be secured once the boards are installed.
The rink perimeter comes together.
Interlocking timber or steel dasher board systems are assembled to the specified dimensions and secured to custom support brackets on the levelled base, locking the liner neatly in place along the perimeter. Board height, gate placement, and corner radius are all tailored to the intended use of the rink.
The rink becomes ice.
Once the system is commissioned and the glycol is charged, water is applied in layers until a solid, uniform ice surface is established—typically to a depth of approximately 3 inches. Ice-making generally takes between 3 and 9 days, depending on weather, rink size, and chiller capacity, after which the surface is groomed and ready for its first skate.
Pool to Rink Conversion
Center Ice Rinks specializes in transforming underused outdoor spaces into high-performing private ice rinks, including pool-to-rink, tennis court, and other challenging backyard conversions. With decades of experience building on unlevel surfaces and complex residential properties, we design and install custom rink systems engineered for the realities of a Canadian winter—delivering a smooth, dependable skating surface right at home.
Professional Installation & Re-Installation
Whether you choose a self-install package or prefer full professional installation, Center Ice Rinks can support the setup of your rink system from start to finish. Our installation and seasonal re-installation services are designed to ensure every component is assembled, connected, and commissioned for safe, reliable performance throughout the winter season.
Integration & Services
From initial commissioning to seasonal storage, we handle every detail.
We execute a full mechanical and electrical start-up on your refrigeration system to guarantee optimal cooling and immediate ice formation.
Before filling the rink, we perform rigorous high-pressure testing across all connections to ensure a 100% sealed, leak-free glycol loop.
Enhance your rink layout with spectator netting, rink-side protective rubber flooring, custom gates, high-intensity LED floodlighting, branded dasher boards, custom embedded logos, and line kits.
When temperatures drop next winter, our crew returns to completely re-assemble your boards, piping grid, and refrigeration chiller.
At the end of the season, we drain the glycol and professionally dismantle the rink system. During teardown, we inspect the boards, floor mats, and related components, and can recommend any cleaning, maintenance, or repairs required before storage or the next installation.
Store your complete rink system in our climate-controlled facility to protect all components from summer humidity and UV damage.
Book an installation.
Tell us about the property and we'll design the right rink for it.