Rock climbing holds aren’t just fixtures on your wall; they're gateways to an adventure, a challenge, and a complete workout. Whether designing a home gym or enhancing a commercial climbing wall, installing bolt-on climbing holds is a critical step that requires more than just casual hand tightening.
As experts in everything regarding rock climbing holds, we know the installation of bolt-on holds intimately. Below, we offer some sensible tips for installing bolt-on climbing holds to ensure a safe and secure installation.
What Are Bolt-On Climbing Holds?
First, what are bolt-on climbing holds? Climbing holds come in various types, and bolt-on rock climbing holdsare popular due to their versatility and durability.
Unlike screw-on holds, bolt-ons require more effort to install and are usually for permanent or semi-permanent placements. Installers fix these holds to climbing walls with bolts, making them a secure and long-lasting option.
Best Practices for Installing Bolt-On Holds
Here are essential tips for installing bolt-on climbing holds and ensuring they remain firmly in place and safe to climb.
1. Get the Right Tools
Before you even look at the climbing wall, consider these tools as your best friends when it comes to installing your bolt-on holds:
- Drill with the appropriate drill bit for your wall material (most commonly concrete or wood)
- Wrench for tightening the bolts
- Stud finder if you're working with a framework made of wood or steel
- Tape measure and level to ensure precision
Remember that the quality of your installation starts with the tools you use.
2. Mark Your Hole Locations
Precision is key in climbing, and it's no different when setting up your practice walls. Hold placement is an art, but marking the locations will anchor each hold's position.
Prepare and position climbing holds by planning your route. Mark placement points on the wall through each hold, and frequently step back to assess the layout's appearance and feel.
3. Drill and Anchor Deep Into the Wall
The depth and positioning of your drill are what will keep you safe. Take time with each hole, ensuring it’s straight and deep enough to house the bolt securely.
Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for hole diameter and depth. Clean dust and debris from the hole after drilling to allow the bolt to sit securely.
4. Firmly Tighten
The final and arguably most crucial step is to tighten the bolts firmly. An experienced hand will know when a hold feels right, but you can also check for any play in the hold's movement. Ensure the hold is secure without overtightening to avoid damaging the threads or the hold.
Find Bolt-On Holds at Atomik Climbing Holds!
Installing bolt-on climbing holds is just the beginning of your climbing adventure. Doing continuous maintenance, being mindful of your safety, and enjoying the routes you craft make the climb worthwhile.
If you need new bolt-ons for your rock wall, Atomik Climbing Holds has a huge selection. We can meet your needs, whether you require slopers, pinches, footholds, crimpers, or any other kind of hold! Browse our inventory to outfit your rock wall today.
Leave your comment