Michael Degutis // San Luis Obispo
When did you build your wall? Was it a “COVID baby”?
I built my wall in the summer of 2020. My friend cleaned out his storage unit and dropped off about 50 Metolius holds. That inspired me to get going on the wall quickly.
How long did it take you to build and what did that time look like?
I built the wall over a week and a half. The design process was pretty straightforward. I looked up some plans online, again Metolius was a big help! I had help picking up the wood; two sheets of plywood can fit in an Astro van with the driver’s seat fully forward and the driver hugging the steering wheel. I built the wall solo after that.
Not including holds and padding, how much did it cost you to build? Any surprises there?
The wall came out to about $300. I had done some research so I had a rough idea on cost already.
What are you doing for padding?
I have two bouldering pads. I started with just one but two makes it much better. I get some moisture in my garage when it rains so I can pick them up and get them off the floor. This also keeps the space more multipurpose.
What was your primary incentive for the wall? Did anything in particular inspire your wall design?
Being gifted a set of holds was a huge incentive! I felt I needed to use the holds soon to show my appreciation. Thanks Zak!
What was the most difficult aspect of the design and build?
Making sure I anchored to the wall was my biggest concern. I was careful finding the studs and it came out really solid. It was difficult/awkward to install a full sheet of plywood by myself, but I managed.
What would you do differently?
I would use different T-nuts. I used a hammer in style and some of them are having problems pulling too far into the wood after multiple hold installs. They can be difficult to get straight the first time. Next time I would use the ones with the three screws on the back.
Did you make any mistakes along the way or choose to re-do any aspects?
I am really happy with what I have, if anything it makes me want to expand the wall!
What is your favorite aspect?
I really like setting routes, although at first it was a real challenge. It is very satisfying when you set one you like.
How often do you use the wall? Do you think you’ll still use it as much when the gyms fully open back up?
I use the wall three times a week. I like being able to get a short session in more easily than driving to the gym. I think I will still use it at least once a week after the gyms open up.
Any words of wisdom to aspiring homewallers?
It is worth the effort! It’s a fun project and once completed you have a cool new training tool. Be prepared to buy a lot of climbing holds, getting new holds can be slightly addicting. The mystery boxes of seconds are a good way to go.
