You might be here because you are considering purchasing a Glice synthetic ice rink or because you have recently acquired one. Either way, you are now just a few simple steps away from enjoying long-lasting fun on the ice. Fortunately, you can complete installation process quickly and efficiently with just a little bit of effort. Follow these straightforward steps, on how to install a synthetic skating rink and your skating experience will be waiting in no time! We also highly recommend you sign up on our online platform Glice Academy for even more detailed instructions, including videos and troubleshooting tips.

Before you start

1. Choose the right location: To have a successful skating experience, you want to look for a flat and clean surface, free of debris and water. The area should be big enough to accommodate the rink size you chose. Measure twice, cut once!
2. Ensure you have all the materials: Besides the synthetic ice tiles, consider purchasing a subfloor, which can be rubber, thin foam, or wood floor. Larger rinks should be accompanied and put in place by dasher boards. For home rinks, we offer mini boards. 
3. Prepare the area: Once you have your Eco Ice tiles, it’s time to prepare the area where you’ll be installing the rink. Clean the area from any debris, and if you are installing your rink outdoors, make sure to level the ground and create a sturdy foundation.
4. Install the synthetic ice panels: Follow our instructions, adapted to home rinks or larger rinks for the correct installation. Be sure to double-check that the panels are level to avoid any unevenness in the rink.

How to install a synthetic skating rink: Home rink installation (10 mm Smart-Lock Panel)

1. To simplify the assembly process, begin by removing the panels from the box and ensuring that they are oriented in the same direction.
2. If you place synthetic ice tiles on irregular or abrasive surfaces, we recommend placing a protective underlay material, such as foam flooring underlayment, to prevent damage to the flooring and underside of the sheets. Do not install the skating area on unstable or irregular surfaces, such as grass or thick carpet, to ensure maximum stability and safety.
3. Before beginning the installation process, establish the perimeter of the skating area by using tape or line. When laying down the panels, we recommend starting with one row first. Start at the center of the panel connection, and work outward to the edges. The panels will positively lock together for maximum stability.
4. Once you installed the first row of panels, add another row and check alignment and positioning as you go. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the entire skating area is complete.

See how easy it is: 

Disassembly

To disconnect panels, lift an outside corner of the panel you want to remove and gently tap the outer edges of the adjacent panels to free the first panel being lifted. Repeat the procedure row by row.

How to install a synthetic skating rink: Larger rink installations (13/20 mm Standard Panel)

1. Before beginning the installation process, you must take certain steps to ensure maximum efficiency and safety. Start by removing all sheets from the pallets and inspecting the panels for any dirt or debris, particularly on the tongue and groove. It is essential to clean the panels before installation to avoid any distortion and guarantee a smooth skating experience.
   Want to know more about ice rink maintenance? Have a look at our blog post on the topic. 
2. If you place the panels on an irregular or abrasive surface,we recommend a protective underlay material to protect them from damage.

       3.  It is also important to establish the perimeter of the skating area before installation. Do this by using tape or a line to ensure a precise outline. To prepare the panels for installation, place them all on the surface for several hours before installation in the same conditions, whether it be in the shade or sunlight. 

       4. To start the installation process, lay down the panels in one row, ensuring that the tongue of one panel is inserted into the groove of the next. Make sure that all plug holes align – if they do not, utilize the Glice installation tool to fix the issue. Knock the plugs into all holes with the nylon hammer provided with the tool box, ensuring that the rounded bottom is down and that the flat tops of the plugs are flush with the surface. We suggest that you complete one row before taking a break to ensure proper alignment and stability. 

       5. To add another row of panels, check the alignment and position of each panel as you go along. Repeat this process until you have completed the entire skating area.

See how you can set up a complete rink in just a few hours here:

Dasherboard installation

1. To begin the installation process, you must first place the feet on both sides of a corner. Once in place, position the curve module on top of the feet. To fix the module in place, use the tools provided while a second person holds the module steady.

2. Next, it is time to place the next foot at a distance of 1.96 meters (6.4 feet). This step is crucial in ensuring that the dasher board remains stable and properly positioned. With the foot in place, it is now time to add the straight dasher board on top. Repeat these steps until all dasher boards are set up correctly around the rink.

Disassembly

• Panels: To safely disconnect panels, begin by placing a wedge underneath the side of the panel. This will create a space under the panel and allow you to remove it with ease. Next, use the metal punch and nylon hammer supplied to knock the plugs out, starting from one end and working your way to the other. Be sure to retain the plugs, as they can be reused for future installations. After removing the plugs, remove the wedge and carefully slide the panel away from any adjoining panels. It is essential to proceed carefully to prevent any damage to the surrounding area or neighboring panels. Repeat this process row by row until all panels have been safely disconnected.

• Dasher boards: To begin the process, start by removing the screws that hold the dasher boards in place. Next, gather two people to remove the dasher board. One person should hold it from the inside, while the other person holds it from the outside. Make sure to proceed slowly and carefully to ensure that the dasher board is safely removed. After removing the dasher board, it is time to remove the foot. This step is essential to ensure that the dasher board modules are safely and efficiently dismantled. Once the foot has been removed, repeat the process with all of the remaining dasher board modules.

No need to worry about expensive costs or time-consuming setup and maintenance. Our synthetic ice rinks are the perfect fit for a range of settings, from backyard rinks to community spaces. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced skater, our rinks provide a seamless skating experience that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
And should you still have any questions about how to install a synthetic ice  skating rink or any other topic regarding our Eco Ice rinks, we are here to help !