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THE REC!
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Climbing Wall Construction
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Our climbing wall (built by Eldorado Wall Company out of Boulder, Colorado) is a textured "seamless" construction that simulates the look and feel of real rock. The wall measures 30' tall x 40' wide and has numerous routes for climbers of all abilities. Design features include aretes, overhangs, flake systems, lead routes and a floor to roof crack for learning crack climbing technique. The following photos will give you an idea of how the wall was constructed.
CLICK ON ANY PHOTO FOR AN ENLARGED VIEW.
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The steel framework was welded together according to the specifications laid out in the engineering plans. Built outwards from a series of wall supports, our wall is free floating. No part of it rests against the floor, or touches the ceiling. This design attribute reduces the potential for vertical stress in the wall.
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After the steel was welded together, plywood panels were cut to shape and bolted to the myriad faces of the steel structure.
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With the plywood in place,edges, cracks and seams were overlaid with a layer of wire mesh.
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The wall was now ready for the final layer, "Dudetex", a combination of cement, a plastic compound and a coloring agent. The combined mixture gives the surface high durability and flexibility.
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In some areas (such as edges and corners), the mixture was formed into a variety of shapes (such as "Rocky" to the left), enhancing the walls texture and adding to the climbing experience. Once the compound dried hundreds of t-nuts were placed over the wall surface onto which holds can be attached.
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Holds were selected from many companies. Our routesetters "set" a variety of routes suitable for beginners as well as more experienced climbers. The difficulty of climbs range from 5.6 to 5.11.
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Finishing touches to the URock climbing facility include a padded floor surface (3+ inches of high density foam overlaid with durable carpet) and lighting standards to illuminate the wall. The wall area is separated from the public walkway with a railing.