Frequently Asked Questions
Commercial/Gym FAQs
We have a new rock climbing wall — now what?
Climbing wall management is equally important as facility design. We encourage climbing wall operators, to get involved with the Climbing Wall Association. The CWA has an amazing range of resources available to you. Visit them today at https://www.cwapro.org/
Is liability a concern with climbing walls?
Climbing is an inherently risky sport. Having said that, indoor climbing has a long history and a remarkable track record for low incidents. It is important to contact your insurance provider to discuss the specifics of your policy. There are a variety of resources available with regard to operations and liability through the Climbing Wall Association.
What type of landing surface do we need?
Selecting an appropriate landing surface is a very important part of safety, user experience, and the overall feel of your facility. It is also a significant expense that should be addressed from the beginning. There are a wide variety of options available in the marketplace . We can help guide you through the selection process. Please call us to discuss the flooring options to go along with the specific wall and wall angles that you have.
How many climbing holds do we need?
The number of holds you need depends on the type of project. In general the smaller the wall the more holds we recommend. This will maximize the climbing potential, and reduce the need for constant resetting of the holds. For home walls we recommend 10–25 holds per panel. For traverse walls we recommend 7–10 holds per panel. For commercial gyms and recreation centers we recommend 10–15 holds per panel.
Do Elevate panels require professional installation?
No, our panels can be conveniently mounted to either a wood or steel frame using appropriate fasteners. We are happy to provide you with installation instructions and tips for yourself or for a local contractor of your choice. We also offer a range of design/build services, depending on the size and location of your project.
How big does a climbing wall need to be to be useful?
It is possible to get a lot of use out of a small space. The size of your facility will be determined by a variety of considerations:
- Space available
- Intended use
- Number of users
- Age and skills of users
- Roped Climbing or Bouldering
- Budget
We offer a full range of design/build and consulting services. Elevate Climbing Walls has more that 35 years of experience. We can help you determine the optimal size facility to meet your needs.
Residential/Home Walls
Do Elevate panels require professional installation?
No — our panels can be conveniently mounted to either a wood or steel frame using appropriate fasteners. We are happy to provide you with installation instructions and tips for yourself or for a local contractor of your choice. We also offer a range of design/build services, depending on the size and location of your project.
Do you recommend mounting panels directly to an existing wall?
Although we recommend creating a frame for ease of use and accommodating the bolts attached to the holds; If your wall has exposed wood or steel studs and is structurally adequate, it is possible to mount the panels directly. It is important to remember that the bolts used to attach the climbing holds will protrude beyond the back of the panel. It is important to allow adequate space for the bolts.
We do not recommend mounting panels directly to concrete, concrete block walls, or walls that have been sheeted. When in doubt build a frame for your panels. A frame adds minimal cost and will increase the versatility and maintainability of your wall. With a simple frame, you have the ability to change your angles, add shapes and volumes, and have your walls evolve with your climbing.
How big does a home climbing wall need to be to be useful?
The number of climbing holds will determines the variety of climbing. A wall that is 8′ x 8′ and covered in holds can be much more useful than a wall four times the size with only a few holds.
In general we recommend that the smaller walls be more overhanging. Traditionally a home wall built for training should be 8-12′ wide x10-12′ tall and overhang 30 to 45 degrees past vertical. If you have more space add a variety of angles.
Where is the best place to build a home climbing wall?
We have found that indoor walls get used more often than outdoor walls. Home walls are built in attics, basements, and garages. These spaces are usually out of the way and dry year round. They often have exposed structures that are easier to mount to. We generally recommend against mounting walls to the outside of your house, although with proper design considerations, it is possible.
How many climbing holds do we need?
The number of holds you need depends on the type of project. In general the smaller the wall the more holds we recommend. This will maximize the climbing potential. For home walls we recommend 10–25 holds per panel. For traverse walls we recommend 7–10 holds per panel. For commercial gyms and recreation centers we recommend 10–15 holds per panel.
Panel Systems
Are your climbing walls weather resistant?
A weather resistant panel is available by special order. They are best suited for use in covered outdoor areas. Please call us to discuss your outdoor projects (206) 641-9119.
Can your panels be cut to fit?
Yes — our panels can be easily cut using standard tools. We recommend using a circular saw with a sharp blade. Having a stack of inexpensive blades is preferable, to using expensive blades. The panels should be cut from the BACK of the panel, with the blade set to cut the plywood, thus minimally scoring the concrete coating on the opposite side. The edges can be cleaned up using a masonry grinding stone available a most home improvement centers.
Do Elevate panels require professional installation?
No. Our panels can be conveniently mounted to either a wood or steel frame using appropriate fasteners. We are happy to provide you with installation instructions and tips for yourself or for a local contractor of your choice. We also offer a range of design/build services, depending on the size and location of your project.
How many climbing holds do we need?
The number of holds you need depends on the type of project. In general the smaller the wall the more holds we recommend. This will maximize the climbing potential. For home walls we recommend 10-25 holds per panel. For traverse walls we recommend 7-10 holds per panel. For commercial gyms and recreation centers we recommend 10-15 holds per panel.
Do you recommend mounting panels directly to an existing wall?
Although we recommend creating a frame for ease of use and accommodating the bolts attached to the holds; If your wall has exposed wood or steel studs and is structurally adequate, it is possible to mount the panels directly. It is important to remember that the bolts used to attach the climbing holds will protrude beyond the back of the panel. It is important to allow adequate space for the bolts.
We do not recommend mounting panels directly to concrete, concrete block walls, or walls that have been sheeted. When in doubt build a frame for your panels. A frame adds minimal cost and will increase the versatility and maintainability of your wall. With a simple frame, you have the ability to change your angles, add shapes and volumes, and have your walls evolve with your climbing.
What are the advantages of a panel system?
A panel system is more cost effective, reconfigurable, maintainable, and allows for a higher level of quality control than seamless textured onsite systems. With a panel system, damaged panels can be replaced, and your walls can be easily modified to provide a fresh experience for you or your customers!