Max Jacobs // Portland, OR
When did you build your wall?
The last panel went up about 4 weeks ago.
How long did it take you to build?
Build time was 4 days, from holes dug for uprights to the last panel going up
Not including holds and padding, how much did it cost you to build?
Wood, concrete, bolts/screws and t-nuts totaled $600. Pressure treated wood is expensive but the wall needed to stand up to the wet winters we get here in the Northwest.
Did anything in particular inspire your wall design?
The stay at home order in Portland and the closure of climbing gyms was the initial inspiration. As far as design, I wanted something big enough to motivate me to use it even when things open back up.
What was the most difficult aspect of the design and build?
It seems obvious in retrospect, but wood is crazy heavy. Due to social distancing the build was done completely by me and my partner. Lifting and bolting the frame into place was one of the most physically taxing things I’ve ever done.
What would you do differently?
Due to cost I used cheap hammer in t-nuts. Within the first day I had a spinner. If I was to do it again I would drop the extra cash to get the higher quality screw in t-nuts
What is your favorite aspect?
I love that it’s in my backyard. Being able to walk out my back door on a sunny day and climb, is absolutely amazing.
Any words of wisdom to aspiring homewallers?
Just do it! Don’t let the cost or build its self intimidate you. There’s a wealth of resources online to help you design/build your future wall.
