Andrew Pace
Converting a stadium ice rink into a basketball court is no easy task, but it is a common procedure in multi-purpose stadiums. The process involves laying down interlocking mats made from rubber or fiberglass-foam composite over the ice, followed by deck boards topped with basketball-ready parquet. The entire process can take anywhere from 90 minutes to a full day, depending on the technology used and the number of workers involved. One example of a product used for ice rink conversion is Terracover Ice®, which offers superior thermal insulation and can be installed and removed quickly without specialized equipment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time taken for conversion | 90 minutes to a full day |
| Ice rink conversion product | Terracover Ice |
| Terracover Ice characteristics | Light, easy to handle, quick to fit, no specialised equipment needed, good insulation, non-slip surface, easy to clean |
| Terracover Ice panel characteristics | 2m x 2m x 35mm, 8 interlocking connectors, 4 square meters, 43 square feet |
| Basketball court installation | On top of ice rink cover |
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What You'll Learn
Using interlocking mats made from rubber or fiberglass-foam composite
When it comes to covering a stadium ice rink for basketball, one option is to use interlocking mats made from rubber or fibreglass-foam composite. This method offers several advantages and is a popular choice for ice rink conversions.
Rubber mats designed for ice rinks are durable and resilient, able to withstand constant foot traffic, including the blades of ice skates. They are water-resistant, easy to clean, and provide good value, especially when covering large areas. Rubber mats can also help safeguard skate blades and provide anti-slip surfacing, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, rubber's high coefficient of friction increases traction, making it easier for skaters to walk in their skates.
Interlocking mats are easy to install and can be expanded to any size by adding more mats or tiles. They come in various sizes, such as 20" x 20" tiles or larger 2-meter by 2-meter panels, offering versatility for different spaces. The interlocking design eliminates the need for additional adhesives, making them lightweight and easy to transport.
For ice rink conversions, interlocking mats made from fibreglass-foam composite, such as Terracover Ice®, offer excellent thermal insulation. The solid, interlocking panels ensure a seamless, gapless surface, preventing tripping hazards and providing superior insulation. The panels are quick to install and remove, requiring no specialised equipment.
Using interlocking mats made from rubber or fibreglass-foam composite provides a safe, efficient, and versatile solution for covering a stadium ice rink during basketball games or other events, ensuring a flat, non-slip surface that protects both the ice and the participants.
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Laying basketball-ready parquet on top of deck boards
To convert an ice rink for basketball, you'll first need to cover the rink with an insulated floor. One such product is Terracover Ice®, which is designed for multi-functional use, allowing for ice-based sports one day and basketball the next. The product is supplied in solid panels that interlock to form one continuous flat floor.
Once you have installed an insulated cover over the ice rink, you can lay the basketball-ready parquet floor. The Boston Celtics' basketball court is a famous example of a parquet floor. The team's original floor was constructed using surplus scraps of wood due to a lumber shortage in the aftermath of World War II. The pieces were laid out in an alternating pattern, creating the parquet effect. The floor consisted of 247 5-foot by 5-foot square panels held together by wood planks, brass screws, and bolts.
When laying decking boards, it's important to first measure the framing exactly, taking into account the width and spacing of the decking. This will ensure a beautiful end result, especially if you are using high-quality materials. You can start laying the decking boards at the house or at the edge of the deck, but you will likely need to cut the last board to width to fit. Starting at the edge of the deck and working your way in is generally recommended as it is easier and tends to look better.
After cutting the decking boards to size, you can begin fitting and fastening the wood to the beams. This can be done in a variety of patterns, depending on the desired look and function of the floor. Once the boards are in place, the seams should be caulked and filled with a sticky substance. This process can be done on both sides simultaneously, working back and forth, side to side, until the seams are tight. Finally, the deck should be soaked with saltwater once a day or painted to protect the wood.
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Using insulated ice rink flooring covers
Insulated ice rink flooring covers are a great option for stadium managers looking to convert their ice rink into a basketball court. This method does not require removing the ice, which saves time and costs. It also allows for faster conversions between events.
One popular option for insulated ice rink flooring covers is Terracover Ice®. This product is designed for multi-functional ice arenas, allowing for quick conversions between sports events, concerts, exhibitions, and trade shows. Terracover Ice® is supplied in solid panels that interlock with each other, creating a seamless and safe floor with no tripping hazards. The panels are made from foamed polyurethane, providing superior thermal insulation and protecting the ice from melting. They are also lightweight, easy to handle, and quick to install, with no specialised equipment required.
Another option is EverBlock Flooring, which offers EverBase® 3 flooring sections that provide additional insulation and ice protection. This system traps air between plastic layers, creating a transition between the cold ice and the warmer ambient temperature above, keeping attendees comfortable. EverBase® 3 is durable and can withstand daily rink use, making it ideal for hosting various events without damaging the ice underneath.
When choosing an insulated ice rink flooring cover, consider factors such as safety, insulation quality, ease of installation and removal, durability, and cost. Some products may also offer non-slip surfaces, which is an important safety feature when large crowds are involved. By selecting the most suitable cover, stadium managers can efficiently convert their ice rinks into basketball courts or other event spaces while maintaining the integrity of the ice surface.
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Installing a basketball floor over an ice floor cover
Before installing a basketball floor, it is important to cover the ice rink. This is done to keep the ice cold and protected. Ice rink covers, such as Terracover Ice®, are designed to be multi-functional, allowing for quick conversions between events. They are also easy to handle and quick to fit without any specialized equipment.
To begin the installation process, ensure that the ice rink is level and free of debris. If necessary, use a rotary scrubbing machine to clean the surface. Once the surface is prepared, start laying down the ice floor cover. Terracover Ice® is supplied in solid panels that interlock together, creating a continuous flat floor. The panels are typically 2 meters x 2 meters x 35mm in size and lock together with interlocking connectors.
After the ice floor cover is securely in place, you can proceed to install the basketball floor on top. The basketball floor can be made of a suitable material, such as wood or synthetic flooring. Ensure that the basketball floor is securely fastened to the ice floor cover to prevent any slipping or movement during use.
It is important to note that the basketball floor should be installed carefully to avoid damaging the ice floor cover. Additionally, the weight of the basketball floor should be considered to ensure that it does not exceed the load-bearing capacity of the ice floor cover.
Once the basketball floor is installed, you can mark the basketball court lines and add any necessary basketball equipment, such as hoops and backboards. The arena is now ready for basketball games and can be easily converted back to an ice rink when needed.
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Removing ice rink features such as dasher boards, shielding, and players' boxes
To convert an ice rink for basketball, it is necessary to remove the ice rink features, including dasher boards, shielding, and players boxes. This process can vary depending on the specific setup and features of the rink, but here is a general guide:
Dasher Boards
Dasher boards are the barrier panels that enclose the ice rink and provide a visual boundary for the playing area. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and can be customized with various colours and designs. To remove dasher boards, the process may involve detaching them from their mountings or enclosures. Care should be taken to handle them properly due to their weight and size.
Shielding and Players Boxes
The shielding and players boxes refer to the protective barriers and designated areas for players during a game. These features are often removed during the conversion process. For shielding, it may involve taking down any additional panels or barriers surrounding the rink. As for the players' boxes, these are usually located along the sides of the rink and can be disassembled or removed to create a clear space.
Additional Rink Features
Depending on the rink setup, there may be other features to remove or adjust. For example, penalty boxes and concert lift-out panels might need to be taken out. It is important to assess the specific requirements for the basketball configuration and make the necessary adjustments.
Ice Rink Cover
Once the major features have been removed, the next step is to cover the ice rink surface. This involves placing insulating covers over the ice to create a flat and dry floor suitable for basketball. Products like Terracover Ice® offer superior insulation, ease of installation and removal, and the ability to bear heavy weights. These covers are designed to interlock seamlessly, creating a safe and continuous floor for basketball games or other events.
Converting an ice rink for basketball requires careful planning and coordination. Removing the dasher boards, shielding, and players boxes is a crucial step in creating the necessary space and surface for the new sport. By following the necessary procedures and utilizing appropriate tools and covers, a safe and successful conversion can be achieved.
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Frequently asked questions
Depending on the technology used and the workforce available, the transition can take as little as 90 minutes with a large crew or a full day with a smaller crew.
First, an ice rink cover is laid over the ice. This can be made from a variety of materials, including rubber, fiberglass-foam composite, or foam puzzle pieces. Then, a basketball court floor is installed on top of the cover.
Terracover Ice® is a popular option for ice rink covers, as it is light, easy to handle, quick to install, and provides excellent insulation. Becker Arena Products also offers a range of products designed to facilitate safe and time-saving rink conversions.
