The Daily Grind
Once your rink is frozen, the work has just begun. Here's how to keep it "glassy" all winter.
Flooding Technique
Always clear off all snow and "snow dust" before flooding. Use thin layers of water rather than one deep flood. Hot water is ideal if you have access — it melts the top layer slightly to form a better bond.
Repairing "Shell Ice"
Shell ice (pockets of air under the surface) can be dangerous. Break it out, fill the hole with a slush "snow-crete" mixture, and pack it down before flooding over it.
Dealing with Snow
Clear snow immediately after a storm. If left sitting, the snow acts as an insulator and keeps the ice from freezing deep. If it rains on top of snow, you'll end up with a mess of unskateable "gray ice."