Creating your own slip and slide for adults is a fun and rewarding project that can provide hours of entertainment during the summer months. With the right materials and a little creativity, you can build a durable and exciting slide right in your backyard. Here’s a guide on how to make your DIY slip and slide for adults.
Materials You’ll Need
- Heavy-Duty Plastic Sheeting: Choose a thick plastic sheeting, preferably 6 mil or thicker, to ensure durability. The size will depend on how long and wide you want your slide to be.
- Pool Noodles or Foam Pipe Insulation: These will be used to cushion the edges of the slide and provide safety.
- Tent Stakes or Landscape Staples: These will secure the edges of the plastic sheeting to the ground.
- Garden Hose with Sprinkler Attachment: For consistent water flow along the slide.
- Dish Soap or Baby Shampoo: To make the slide extra slippery.
- Scissors or Utility Knife: For cutting the plastic sheeting to size.
- Hammer or Mallet: For driving in tent stakes or landscape staples.
Instructions
Step 1: Choose the Location
Select a suitable area in your backyard with a gentle slope. Make sure the ground is free of rocks, sticks, and other debris that could cause injuries. Ideally, choose an area with soft grass for added safety and comfort.
Step 2: Cut the Plastic Sheeting
Measure and cut the plastic sheeting to your desired length and width. A length of 25-50 feet and a width of 6 feet is typically suitable for adults, but you can adjust based on your space and preferences.
Step 3: Cushion the Edges
Place pool noodles or foam pipe insulation along the edges of the plastic sheeting to cushion them. Fold the edges of the plastic over the noodles and secure them in place with tent stakes or landscape staples. This will help prevent injuries and keep the plastic in place.
Step 4: Secure the Slide
Use tent stakes or landscape staples to anchor the edges of the plastic sheeting to the ground. Drive the stakes or staples into the ground along the edges, making sure they are secure and the plastic is taut.
Step 5: Set Up the Water Supply
Attach a garden hose with a sprinkler attachment to provide a steady flow of water along the slide. Position the sprinkler at the top of the slide to ensure even coverage. You can also use a slip and slide sprinkler system for more targeted water distribution.
Step 6: Add Soap for Extra Slipperiness
Apply a generous amount of dish soap or baby shampoo to the surface of the slide to make it extra slippery. Spread the soap evenly across the plastic sheeting to ensure a smooth and slick surface.
Step 7: Test the Slide
Before using the slide, test it to make sure everything is in working order. Check for any leaks or tears in the plastic sheeting and adjust the water flow as needed. Make sure the slide is sufficiently slippery for a fun and safe ride.
Step 8: Enjoy Your DIY Slip and Slide!
Once everything is set up and tested, it’s time to enjoy your homemade slip and slide for adults. Invite your friends and family over, put on your swimsuits, and get ready for hours of sliding fun right in your own backyard.
Safety Tips
- Supervision: Always supervise the use of the slip and slide, especially if alcohol is involved.
- Proper Use: Remind participants to slide feet-first and avoid diving headfirst to prevent injuries.
- Stay Hydrated: Provide plenty of water for hydration, especially on hot days.
- Check for Hazards: Regularly inspect the slide for any damage or hazards that could cause injuries.
With these materials and instructions, you can create a DIY slip and slide for adults that will provide endless entertainment throughout the summer. So, roll out your slide, turn on the water, and get ready for some slippery fun!