Frequently asked questions.

Center Ice Rinks offers refrigerated and synthetic rink systems. Refrigerated rinks use a chiller, pump, and glycol-circulating floor mats to maintain skating conditions even when temperatures climb above freezing — extending the season significantly. Synthetic ice uses interlocking polymer tile for indoor and off-season skating without temperature requirements.

As of fall 2021, we discontinued natural ice installations due to increasingly inconsistent temperatures in Southern Ontario. Existing natural ice customers can still purchase dasher boards or transition to a refrigerated system. For reliable, season-long ice, refrigerated is now the recommended approach.

Pricing depends on the size of the rink, its location, land gradient, the refrigeration system required, boards, and any special requirements. After an initial project assessment, the team provides a high-low estimate scoped to your specific site and goals.

As early as possible. Refrigerated and artificial rinks require 8–10 weeks of lead time for fabrication and scheduling. Synthetic ice can typically move faster at 2–3 weeks. Ordering early also means better scheduling flexibility for installation.

There is no minimum — all rinks are custom-made to the client's space. For competitive hockey practice, the recommended minimum is 25×40 ft. For recreational skating, smaller surfaces work well depending on the number of users.

Yes — Center Ice installs rinks anywhere in Canada. Ongoing maintenance and icescaping services are currently concentrated in the Greater Toronto Area. Customers outside the GTA receive the ice management tools needed to maintain the surface themselves.

A level surface is ideal, but a sloped property is not a dealbreaker. Depending on the grade, a full or partial subfloor system can create a properly level skating surface. The team assesses the site and recommends the right approach.

Yes — tennis courts are actually well-suited for rink conversions. They are typically level and large enough for a quality skating surface, and installation does not damage the court underneath.

Yes. Specialized trusses create a sturdy, level platform over the pool that supports the full weight of the rink. The structure is designed for seasonal removal without causing damage to the pool.

Rink construction typically takes 2–5 days depending on the size and complexity of the project. After construction, ice creation takes up to five additional days depending on weather conditions and ambient temperature.

Icescaping is a quality ice management service that includes snow clearing, ice particle removal, shaving, crack repair, flooding for a glassy surface, and fluid level checks on the refrigeration system. It keeps the rink in proper skating condition throughout the season.

Yes. If you are within the service area, Center Ice Rinks can provide maintenance regardless of where the rink was originally purchased.

You can call us directly at +1 (905) 694-9767 or submit a Service Request through the contact page. We will follow up to confirm scheduling.

Yes. Expansions are possible, though refrigerated rinks may require additional piping runs and refrigeration capacity depending on how much the footprint increases. We maintain dasher board inventory for extensions and can assess what the upgrade involves for your specific system.

With proper maintenance and annual servicing, a Center Ice rink typically lasts at least 15 years. The refrigeration equipment, boards, and hardware are built for repeated seasonal installation and removal.

Yes. Center Ice offers clean, secure warehouse storage from April through November. Equipment is properly dismantled, organized, and stored to protect it between seasons.

Storage is priced at $110.00 per skid per month. Skid size is 4×8 ft, and the total cost is based on the square footage of your equipment.

The rental program is focused on short-term events rather than multi-month residential rentals. Refrigeration equipment requires three-phase power, which is generally not available in residential settings, and the economics of a seasonal rental do not typically make sense for a single backyard. For events and commercial applications, the team can assess what's involved.