Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/701202
46 / JULY.AUGUST.2016 RINKMAGAZINE.COM by BRANDON KLEMENT, CIT I t can be hard enough to install and maintain a quality skating surface with sand-based floors, but trying to install marsh pegs in a living breathing unit is, well, let's just go with exciting as our adjective. So now that the stage is set, let's get after it. OUTSOURCE VS. INSOURCE Sure, you can eliminate the fee for contracted labor if you have a mechanically-inclined operations staff. However, consider the follow- ing before going forward with just your staff on a project like this: • Simple hand tools are required (wire ties, Shop Vac, water hose, clean sand, etc.). If your facility isn't equipped with these materials, or your staff isn't trained/comfortable working with them, that might prove to be an issue. • Allow at least one full day to complete the project. Make sure you have enough staff on hand to continue your day-to-day facility operations. • Be prepared to fix a broken pipe. • Notify refrigeration engineer of the project to assist with any issues that may arise. You might find yourself in a bind, but letting the engineer know ahead of time will have him or her prepared to help should issues arrive. COMMON TASKS There are two scenarios that could take place for installing marsh pegs in a sand floor: either the ice is in or the ice is out. Before we break down each situation's specifics, here are a few common tasks that will occur for both ice in or ice out. • Know where your goal line will be located—your league rules will dictate this. • Find the center of each goal line. • Measure 3' to each side of the center. For reference, goal nets are 6' inside from post to post. • Measure 3" beyond the inside of each goal post and make a mark. This will give you a starting point for the project. • Refrigeration pipes could be located 3-5" on center. This will determine the final placement of the marsh pegs so make sure you know where yours are. • The depth of sand removed will depend on the marsh peg inserts purchased. • Top of marsh insert is recommended to be flush with level of sand. This is for when removing ice and shaving ice out with the ice resurfacer. It also lessens the chance of the operator striking the insert with the resurfacer during ice out and minimizes the chance of the operator striking the insert during a routine operation. • Use goal frame to hold inserts in place while securing to chairs or freezing in place. • Carefully remove goal frame when inserts are set in place. ICE OUT • Stretch a string from one end of boards to the other to locate the front and back of the inserts. • Following the guidelines above, continue your measurements. • Once measurements are complete, remove sand. • Place inserts. • Use the net to hold inserts in place while securing to chairs or permanent floor fixture—wire similar to the wire tie works best. Installing Marsh Pegs in Sand Floors HOW To Install Marsh Pegs PHOTOS: COURTESY OF MARSHPEGS.COM , Marsh Peg concrete floor inserts.