Difference between revisions of "Build a Skateboard Ramp"
m (importing article from wikihow) |
m (Update ref tag) |
||
| Line 11: | Line 11: | ||
#Decide what kind of ramp you want to build. Once you’ve got a good sense of the space available to you, plan out how involved you want your ramp to be. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert creating new tricks, the possibilities are endless. | #Decide what kind of ramp you want to build. Once you’ve got a good sense of the space available to you, plan out how involved you want your ramp to be. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert creating new tricks, the possibilities are endless. | ||
#*Don’t be nearsighted. Just because you may only be focused on a single trick now doesn’t mean you won’t want to learn new ones. Try to keep your ramp as versatile as possible; however, start small if this is your first woodworking project. | #*Don’t be nearsighted. Just because you may only be focused on a single trick now doesn’t mean you won’t want to learn new ones. Try to keep your ramp as versatile as possible; however, start small if this is your first woodworking project. | ||
| − | #*A small mini ramp is good for a limited amount of space and can be built into any shape. A ramp strictly for jumps can be limiting but is great for beginners. A standard ramp conventionally has ten foot transitions, a small staircase and can be used in millions of different ways as you hone your craft.<ref>http://www.dansworld.com/faq.html#RAMPBUILD</ref> | + | #*A small mini ramp is good for a limited amount of space and can be built into any shape. A ramp strictly for jumps can be limiting but is great for beginners. A standard ramp conventionally has ten foot transitions, a small staircase and can be used in millions of different ways as you hone your craft.<ref name="rf1">http://www.dansworld.com/faq.html#RAMPBUILD</ref> |
#Create a blueprint to customize your design. Getting your ideas on paper is the best way to get a sense of how involved this project will be. It will also allow you to work out any practical issues concerning measurements. | #Create a blueprint to customize your design. Getting your ideas on paper is the best way to get a sense of how involved this project will be. It will also allow you to work out any practical issues concerning measurements. | ||
#*Find pro ramp plans online. | #*Find pro ramp plans online. | ||
| − | #*Don’t buy expensive design software. Look for free blueprints online, consult friends skilled in design, or go to your local hardware store to start you off on the right foot.<ref>http://diyskate.com/ramps.html</ref> | + | #*Don’t buy expensive design software. Look for free blueprints online, consult friends skilled in design, or go to your local hardware store to start you off on the right foot.<ref name="rf2">http://diyskate.com/ramps.html</ref> |
#*Don’t be afraid to be creative with your design; however, be sure not to start building unless you’re truly satisfied with the final design. Repeatedly starting and stopping can bleed your resources and cause unwanted frustration. | #*Don’t be afraid to be creative with your design; however, be sure not to start building unless you’re truly satisfied with the final design. Repeatedly starting and stopping can bleed your resources and cause unwanted frustration. | ||
| − | #*When you’re customizing, some experimentation may be needed but be careful not to act without intention. For example, if you experiment and hastily cut off several feet rather than an inch at a time, you may need to start the entire project all over again. This can especially be true when building curved ramps.<ref>http://www.diyskate.com/launch_01.html</ref> If you’re on a budget or a beginner, pick a blueprint that matches most of your needs and, after a successful build, consider building a second ramp with customization. | + | #*When you’re customizing, some experimentation may be needed but be careful not to act without intention. For example, if you experiment and hastily cut off several feet rather than an inch at a time, you may need to start the entire project all over again. This can especially be true when building curved ramps.<ref name="rf3">http://www.diyskate.com/launch_01.html</ref> If you’re on a budget or a beginner, pick a blueprint that matches most of your needs and, after a successful build, consider building a second ramp with customization. |
===Organizing Supplies=== | ===Organizing Supplies=== | ||
| − | #Make a list of what you need. Use your blueprint as a guide for what tools are needed. Consult your local hardware store in case they have better alternatives. For example, certain types of wood may provide a better surface for skateboarding but may not hold up well to the autumn rain.<ref>http://www.diyskate.com/bank_01.html</ref> | + | #Make a list of what you need. Use your blueprint as a guide for what tools are needed. Consult your local hardware store in case they have better alternatives. For example, certain types of wood may provide a better surface for skateboarding but may not hold up well to the autumn rain.<ref name="rf4">http://www.diyskate.com/bank_01.html</ref> |
#*Purchase screws and wood at any hardware store. Ensuring the length and type are best suited for your measurements and plans. | #*Purchase screws and wood at any hardware store. Ensuring the length and type are best suited for your measurements and plans. | ||
#*Consider renting, borrowing, or using your own power tools to reduce time. For example, a power drill with assorted bits would be helpful but not necessary if you just want to use a regular screwdriver. Likewise, a jigsaw would also reduce time if you are cutting any wood down. | #*Consider renting, borrowing, or using your own power tools to reduce time. For example, a power drill with assorted bits would be helpful but not necessary if you just want to use a regular screwdriver. Likewise, a jigsaw would also reduce time if you are cutting any wood down. | ||
#*If you choose steel plating in conjunction with wood or instead of it, you’ll need to find a local steel fabricator or scrap metal centre in your area. This may be difficult to find in your area, so start your design and customization around what steel is available to you. | #*If you choose steel plating in conjunction with wood or instead of it, you’ll need to find a local steel fabricator or scrap metal centre in your area. This may be difficult to find in your area, so start your design and customization around what steel is available to you. | ||
| − | #*Stick to a budget especially if this is your first build. A beginner ramp commonly costs approximately $200 to build after all building materials are purchased but this can easily sky rocket if you factor in power tools, customization, or top-of-the-line materials.<ref | + | #*Stick to a budget especially if this is your first build. A beginner ramp commonly costs approximately $200 to build after all building materials are purchased but this can easily sky rocket if you factor in power tools, customization, or top-of-the-line materials.<ref name="rf4" /> |
#Organize your lumber. While some stores will cut it for you, be prepared to shape your wood to your specifications yourself. Getting a professional will save you time and the hassle of working with power tools so weigh that possibility into your overall budget to help manage your expectations. | #Organize your lumber. While some stores will cut it for you, be prepared to shape your wood to your specifications yourself. Getting a professional will save you time and the hassle of working with power tools so weigh that possibility into your overall budget to help manage your expectations. | ||
| − | #*Use pressure treated wood. This material is chemically treated for protection against the growth of mould and is fairly waterproof. Consult the retailer for all possible alternatives.<ref>http://www.homedepot.com/c/discover_benefit_pressure_treated_wood_HT_BG_LC</ref> Pressure treated wood comes in two colors: a copper green-ish tinge and a natural tone. The only difference is the preservative so choose whatever looks best to you. <ref | + | #*Use pressure treated wood. This material is chemically treated for protection against the growth of mould and is fairly waterproof. Consult the retailer for all possible alternatives.<ref name="rf5">http://www.homedepot.com/c/discover_benefit_pressure_treated_wood_HT_BG_LC</ref> Pressure treated wood comes in two colors: a copper green-ish tinge and a natural tone. The only difference is the preservative so choose whatever looks best to you. <ref name="rf5" /> |
| − | #Measure twice and cut once. Before cutting or shaping anything, remember the old adage.<ref>http://pickadirection.com/measure-twice-but-cut-once/</ref> | + | #Measure twice and cut once. Before cutting or shaping anything, remember the old adage.<ref name="rf6">http://pickadirection.com/measure-twice-but-cut-once/</ref> |
#*If you’re unsure, do a faux set-up by drawing it out because it’s better to make the mistake on paper rather than ruin your project and start over. Don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. | #*If you’re unsure, do a faux set-up by drawing it out because it’s better to make the mistake on paper rather than ruin your project and start over. Don’t be afraid to ask someone for help. | ||
#*Don’t be embarrassed about mistakes. You might need to pick up extra pieces of wood, but don’t give up because woodworking is a skill that needs to be developed over time. | #*Don’t be embarrassed about mistakes. You might need to pick up extra pieces of wood, but don’t give up because woodworking is a skill that needs to be developed over time. | ||
#Keep safe. Safety should be your number one priority both when in the process of building your ramp and for the final outcome, when your ramp is in use. | #Keep safe. Safety should be your number one priority both when in the process of building your ramp and for the final outcome, when your ramp is in use. | ||
| − | #*Wear goggles to deflect wood chunks and protect your eyes from sawdust.<ref>https://wiki.artisansasylum.com/index.php/Basic_woodshop_safety_rules</ref> | + | #*Wear goggles to deflect wood chunks and protect your eyes from sawdust.<ref name="rf7">https://wiki.artisansasylum.com/index.php/Basic_woodshop_safety_rules</ref> |
| − | #*Wear clothes that fit because loose clothes can easily be caught by tools.<ref | + | #*Wear clothes that fit because loose clothes can easily be caught by tools.<ref name="rf7" /> |
| − | #Preserve the wood to ensure your ramp’s longevity. Wood won’t last forever, so protect it with a skate-friendly sealant such as Skatepaint, which is a polyurethane sealant that protects from water. <ref>https://ocramps.com/ramp-plans/</ref> | + | #Preserve the wood to ensure your ramp’s longevity. Wood won’t last forever, so protect it with a skate-friendly sealant such as Skatepaint, which is a polyurethane sealant that protects from water. <ref name="rf8">https://ocramps.com/ramp-plans/</ref> |
#*Protect your ramp from rain and the elements by giving it a smooth finish with sealant. | #*Protect your ramp from rain and the elements by giving it a smooth finish with sealant. | ||
===Building Your Ramp=== | ===Building Your Ramp=== | ||
| − | #Cut out the sides of the ramp. Initially, you’ll be cutting out two side pieces from plywood. These will be flimsy but will be the outer sides of the ramp.<ref | + | #Cut out the sides of the ramp. Initially, you’ll be cutting out two side pieces from plywood. These will be flimsy but will be the outer sides of the ramp.<ref name="rf4" /> |
#*Use a pencil to draw out the lines and a jigsaw to cut along these lines if you haven’t had your wood cut at the hardware store. | #*Use a pencil to draw out the lines and a jigsaw to cut along these lines if you haven’t had your wood cut at the hardware store. | ||
| − | #Frame the ramp. Starting with the back support, nail in the four supports found in the blueprint. Be generous with your nails because each nail adds more support to the ramp. After all four supports are attached securely, line up the second side and secure it into the bottom of the supports.<ref | + | #Frame the ramp. Starting with the back support, nail in the four supports found in the blueprint. Be generous with your nails because each nail adds more support to the ramp. After all four supports are attached securely, line up the second side and secure it into the bottom of the supports.<ref name="rf4" /> |
#*Attach the sides of the ramp to a front anchor. It’s vital to make sure, at this point in time, that the frame is level because if it’s not level now, it won’t be after completion. | #*Attach the sides of the ramp to a front anchor. It’s vital to make sure, at this point in time, that the frame is level because if it’s not level now, it won’t be after completion. | ||
| − | #Put in the ramp supports. Starting at the top, attach your 2x6 and 2x4 eight inches apart, with the 2” side facing up. Attach the 2x6 first, as the removed length from the 2x4 will help maintain a ramp that is flush to the ground. <ref | + | #Put in the ramp supports. Starting at the top, attach your 2x6 and 2x4 eight inches apart, with the 2” side facing up. Attach the 2x6 first, as the removed length from the 2x4 will help maintain a ramp that is flush to the ground. <ref name="rf4" /> |
#*You can also double up on the 2x6 boards approximately four inches from the top of the ramp for additional support for the ramp. | #*You can also double up on the 2x6 boards approximately four inches from the top of the ramp for additional support for the ramp. | ||
| − | #*You can also attach a support (two longer 2x4) underneath the 2x6’s because, while it's unlikely they will break, the added support will truly strengthen the structure.<ref | + | #*You can also attach a support (two longer 2x4) underneath the 2x6’s because, while it's unlikely they will break, the added support will truly strengthen the structure.<ref name="rf4" /> |
| − | #Attach the remaining plywood. Take the two 4” x 6” and place them atop the highest 2” x 6”. This gives your ramp a short but safe edge to stand on. After nailing securely, take your two plywood sheets and attach the upper one first. After it’s securely attached with screws, attach the lower sheet. The bottom sheet should slightly overhang the ramp to create a smooth transition from the ramp to the pavement.<ref | + | #Attach the remaining plywood. Take the two 4” x 6” and place them atop the highest 2” x 6”. This gives your ramp a short but safe edge to stand on. After nailing securely, take your two plywood sheets and attach the upper one first. After it’s securely attached with screws, attach the lower sheet. The bottom sheet should slightly overhang the ramp to create a smooth transition from the ramp to the pavement.<ref name="rf4" /> Remember to drill the screws from the top down to prevent anything from catching, making the ramp unsmooth.<ref name="rf4" /> |
#*Put screws in every foot starting at the top to ensure a smooth transition between panels. | #*Put screws in every foot starting at the top to ensure a smooth transition between panels. | ||
| − | #Create the surface of your ramp. Take two sheets of masonite or sheets of skatelite and lay them down atop the previous sheets of plywood. <ref | + | #Create the surface of your ramp. Take two sheets of masonite or sheets of skatelite and lay them down atop the previous sheets of plywood. <ref name="rf4" /> This will be the finished, exposed top of the ramp. After careful alignment, secure them in by using screws approximately every six to eight inches. Remember to start at the top and always screw down into the ramp. |
#*If possible, don’t put the seam of the masonite or skatelite directly atop the seam of the two plywood boards in order to add strength to the ramp. | #*If possible, don’t put the seam of the masonite or skatelite directly atop the seam of the two plywood boards in order to add strength to the ramp. | ||
| − | #Attach the steel plate to the bottom of the ramp. When drilling steel, use a drill bit to first drill a hole for the screw. Next, drive in the screw. this will help ensure the screws are flush with the metal. <ref | + | #Attach the steel plate to the bottom of the ramp. When drilling steel, use a drill bit to first drill a hole for the screw. Next, drive in the screw. this will help ensure the screws are flush with the metal. <ref name="rf4" /> |
===Surfacing Your Ramp=== | ===Surfacing Your Ramp=== | ||
| − | #Choose the top layer. The first two layers should be ⅜” untreated plywood but the top layer can be Skatelite, Masonite, or you can simply skate directly on Plywood. Choose the top layer based on your budget and climate.<ref>http://www.xtremeskater.com/ramp-plans/faqs/</ref> | + | #Choose the top layer. The first two layers should be ⅜” untreated plywood but the top layer can be Skatelite, Masonite, or you can simply skate directly on Plywood. Choose the top layer based on your budget and climate.<ref name="rf9">http://www.xtremeskater.com/ramp-plans/faqs/</ref> |
#*Skatelite is the most costly surface as it is used by professionals and is weather resistant. | #*Skatelite is the most costly surface as it is used by professionals and is weather resistant. | ||
#*Masonite is a smooth tempered hardboard that is reasonably priced but is not resistant to the sun and rain so it must be protected. | #*Masonite is a smooth tempered hardboard that is reasonably priced but is not resistant to the sun and rain so it must be protected. | ||
#*Plywood is not weather resistant and is unforgiving when you fall but is the most cost effective choice for your surface. | #*Plywood is not weather resistant and is unforgiving when you fall but is the most cost effective choice for your surface. | ||
| − | #Sand down any jagged edges or loose corners. This particularly needs to be done when just using plywood. Plywood comes in different grades depending on the quality. The quality of the plywood indicates its durability. Plywood is made up of layers and each layer is given a grade. For example, the first letter is the grade of the top layer while the second letter is the grade of the bottom layer.<ref>http://diyskate.com/info_wood.html</ref> | + | #Sand down any jagged edges or loose corners. This particularly needs to be done when just using plywood. Plywood comes in different grades depending on the quality. The quality of the plywood indicates its durability. Plywood is made up of layers and each layer is given a grade. For example, the first letter is the grade of the top layer while the second letter is the grade of the bottom layer.<ref name="rf10">http://diyskate.com/info_wood.html</ref> |
#*Grade A is the highest grade of plywood with no knots, splits, or cracks. | #*Grade A is the highest grade of plywood with no knots, splits, or cracks. | ||
#*Grade B is solid with minimal knots and splits. It usually is sanded smooth but may need you to give it another sanding. | #*Grade B is solid with minimal knots and splits. It usually is sanded smooth but may need you to give it another sanding. | ||
| Line 60: | Line 60: | ||
#*Finnish Birch is high quality plywood but is expensive and may be difficult to find. | #*Finnish Birch is high quality plywood but is expensive and may be difficult to find. | ||
#Finish the surface of your ramp. Whether you are using the highest quality skatelite or more cost effective plywood, always protect your material from the weather. | #Finish the surface of your ramp. Whether you are using the highest quality skatelite or more cost effective plywood, always protect your material from the weather. | ||
| − | #*Skatelite is resistant from the sun and rain but laying tar paper underneath it will protect the plywood base from any water that gets in through any cracks.<ref | + | #*Skatelite is resistant from the sun and rain but laying tar paper underneath it will protect the plywood base from any water that gets in through any cracks.<ref name="rf9" /> |
| − | #*If you’re using masonite or plywood, protect your surface from the rain with water resistant paint. Use Spar Urethane or Polyurethane Paint. Spar Urethane is the most heavy duty but also the most costly. Polyurethane does not protect as well as Spar Urethane but comes in a variety of colours.<ref | + | #*If you’re using masonite or plywood, protect your surface from the rain with water resistant paint. Use Spar Urethane or Polyurethane Paint. Spar Urethane is the most heavy duty but also the most costly. Polyurethane does not protect as well as Spar Urethane but comes in a variety of colours.<ref name="rf9" /> |
#Cover your ramp with a tarp to give it an extra layer of protection. Be sure to shovel off any snow during the Winter to make sure the moisture doesn’t seep through and warp your wood. | #Cover your ramp with a tarp to give it an extra layer of protection. Be sure to shovel off any snow during the Winter to make sure the moisture doesn’t seep through and warp your wood. | ||
== Video == | == Video == | ||
| Line 74: | Line 74: | ||
*To better visualize your ramp, you can use 3D Modeling software to design your backyard and design a mockup of the ramp. Check out google's free Sketchup software. Some ramp designers even offer plans in a 3D format to help you visualize placement and build your ramp online. | *To better visualize your ramp, you can use 3D Modeling software to design your backyard and design a mockup of the ramp. Check out google's free Sketchup software. Some ramp designers even offer plans in a 3D format to help you visualize placement and build your ramp online. | ||
*If you're having trouble with your ramp tipping over, add some 2x4s or plywood to the back at a 45 degree angle. | *If you're having trouble with your ramp tipping over, add some 2x4s or plywood to the back at a 45 degree angle. | ||
| − | *Masonite doesn’t age well so keep it covered and give it a dust off before use.<ref>http://www.dansworld.com/ramp_faq.html</ref> | + | *Masonite doesn’t age well so keep it covered and give it a dust off before use.<ref name="rf11">http://www.dansworld.com/ramp_faq.html</ref> |
== Warnings == | == Warnings == | ||
| Line 82: | Line 82: | ||
*Don’t start building until you are satisfied with your design and it fits within your budget and timeline. Avoid costly mistakes and unwanted headaches by managing your expectations. | *Don’t start building until you are satisfied with your design and it fits within your budget and timeline. Avoid costly mistakes and unwanted headaches by managing your expectations. | ||
*Always wear a helmet when jumping! | *Always wear a helmet when jumping! | ||
| − | *Don’t use drugs or alcohol when building because this can impair your judgement and even the slightest mistake can lead to a terrible injury.<ref>http://www.woodworkweb.com/woodwork-topics/woodworking-safety/262-the-10-safety-rules-every-woodworker-needs-to-know.html</ref> | + | *Don’t use drugs or alcohol when building because this can impair your judgement and even the slightest mistake can lead to a terrible injury.<ref name="rf12">http://www.woodworkweb.com/woodwork-topics/woodworking-safety/262-the-10-safety-rules-every-woodworker-needs-to-know.html</ref> |
== Things You'll Need == | == Things You'll Need == | ||
