DIY Network

Building a Backyard Half-pipe Michael Strahan and carpenter Amy Wynn Pastor build a skateboard half-pipe for a skateboard-loving family. From "Backyard Stadiums" episode DBYS-101

(Continued from page 2)

Figure A

Note: In our case the bolts were too long to properly secure the pipe so, we took two pieces of 2x4, drilled a hole through it, and used it as filler to insure that the pipe was held tightly in place (figure A). It is important that the top of the pipe be exposed a minimum of 1/4" above the top of the deck to insure a proper grinding surface.

Tip: You may use carefully inserted shims to adjust the pipe to the proper position before you begin attaching the sub-floor but don't let those shims protrude from under the pipe.

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Host Michael Strahan prepares to apply the surface of the half-pipe.

Applying the Surface of the Half-pipe

After the frame of the half-pipe is completed it's time to add the mid and skating layers. For the mid-layer you can use exterior grade 1/2" plywood even though you'll have to bend it to conform to the curve of your ramp. If you prefer, you can use wiggle board, a type of plywood that bends easily, as an alternate sub-floor material. But be aware, it's very expensive. After the sub-floor is fully screwed down to the frame, it's then time to put the final layer down. You can use 1/4" Masonite or Skatelite for the skating surface. We recommend Skatelite because it's weather resistant and it has a smooth surface and bending ability. Once the half-pipe is finished it is time to get your skateboard and give your new half pipe a spin.

Materials:

10 4 x 8 sheets of 1/2" pressure-treated plywood
six 4x 8 sheets — 1/4" Masonite or Skatelite (for skating surface)
the rest of the 3" galvanized deck screws
10 large tube construction adhesive

Tools:

drills with assorted bits
circular saw
jigsaw
hammer
pencils
tape measure
chalk line
extension cords
large glue gun
#2 bit
eye and ear protection

	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

1. Begin applying the 4x 8 plywood sheets to the ramp from the coping down. Stagger the placement of these sheets. The first four will be placed the long way with the top of each board touching — but not covering — the grinding pipe. The next two will be placed horizontally. The transition will use four 4 x 8 sheets laid the short way. Use a bead of construction adhesive on each joist and screw down the sub floor with 3" screws every 8" across the joist line (figure B).

2. It's a good idea to mark a chalk line across the 1/2" plywood to mark the center of every joist to ensure the screws hit the joists. Apply uniform pressure to each sheet in order to bend it to conform to the curve of the ramp. Make sure your boards all meet at the seams (figure C). Repeat this step on the other quarter sections.

3. Now it's time to apply the skating surface. It's a good idea to use the construction adhesive for the surface layer as well. Simply spread glue over the plywood, one section at a time. Attach the final 1/4" riding surface (Masonite or Skatelite) from the coping down (vertically). Use the chalk line again to make sure your screws are hitting the joists (figure D).

4. Screw every 12" along the joist line. If you use Masonite, countersink the screw holes prior to installation with a 3/8" bit. With Skatelite, simply make sure to drill the screws deep enough so that no screw head peaks above the surface.

5. Continue screwing down the skating surface until the entire structure is covered. Remember, unlike the sub floor, the boards of the skating surface are attached vertically (the long way).

6. Using the 3/4' plywood, add the back to the deck.

Note: Backyard Stadiums chose to leave the back of our ramp open in order to store things under the ramp. You may wish to add a back for aesthetic reasons as well.

7. Prime and paint (figure E) the half-pipe if you wish.

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RESOURCES :

Half-pipe Plans
Website: www.ramptech.com

Skateboard Instructional DVD
Skateboarding Explained
Hosted by Dan MacFarlane
Website: www.skateboardingexplained.com

Skatelite
Website: www.skatelite.com

Skateboards and Safety Equipment
Fate Boutique
Website: www.fatestore.com