If you've purchased a building and you're looking to start an indoor ice hockey league, one of the first things you need to do is design the rink. The construction of the rink itself must be precise, and there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important things to think about is what kind of dasher boards you're going to want around the perimeter. Here's a look at a few things you should know about dasher board construction before you make your decisions.

Metal Construction

Most dasher boards are constructed with a base metal frame for durability. Since they will absorb the bulk of the impact any time a player hits the wall, they need to be strong. You can have an impact-absorbing material placed around the metal frame before enclosing the whole structure in puck board, which is traditional for dasher boards.

Opting for this type of construction minimizes the maintenance and upkeep required for the boards. Since they take so much physical abuse, the strength and durability is essential to saving your budget and protecting your players.

Incorporate Access Gates

Any time you install dasher boards, you need to incorporate access gates. Whether you only want the ice accessible from the locker rooms or you want a gate on the spectator side as well, don't forget to incorporate these into your design. Factor in the type of league you'll be running, and consider hinge fixtures that will be easy for people of all ages to operate.

Choose Your Framing

When you select a metal-framed dasher board system, you'll need to determine what type of metal you want it constructed from. If you plan to take the dasher boards down regularly, you may want to consider reinforced aluminum. It's lighter in weight than steel, making it easier for you to move. In either case, it's often best to have the gates made from aluminum so that they aren't too heavy to swing easily for ice access. If you don't have concerns about taking the boards down, consider opting for full steel frames. The steel is strong, reliable, and will last for years to come.

Talk with a local dasher board manufacturer or supplier like All American Arena Products about designing the perfect boards for your new rink. When you understand the basics, it makes the entire process easier and more enjoyable. With their help and this information, you'll be dropping the puck in no time.