Rick Cmar // Morrow, OH
When did you build your wall? Was it a COVID baby?
Yes, it was a covid baby, so a little under a year old.
How long did it take you to build and what did that time look like?
It’s continuously growing. I’m going to be adding in another wall soon enough. But I’m always building volumes and adding ceiling or other sections. My buddy Brian and I got most of it done on a weekend – for sure easier with two people.
Not including holds and padding, how much did it cost you to build? Any surprises there? Most/Least expensive part?
Around $300. T-nuts started to add up, but I got about half of my wood for free. The construction workers in my neighborhood were giving me scraps.
What are you doing for padding?
I have my two crash pads, and a neighbor donated a twin mattress. I just move them around under the section I am climbing on.
What was your primary incentive for the wall? Did anything in particular inspire your wall design?
I always wanted my own wall, but once covid started and all the gyms closed it just made sense.
What was the most difficult aspect of the design and build?
Trying to figure out the best way to utilize the space.
What would you do differently?
I started with just one wall, and then kept adding. If I would have dreamt bigger, I could have one big wall instead of 3 sections.
Did you make any mistakes along the way or choose to re-do any aspects? If so, what?
Instead of hammering in t-nuts, just buy the three screw-ons. They are for sure worth it.
What is your favorite aspect?
The wall is a 15, 30, and 45, so really the ability to set beginner to more difficult problems.
How often do you use the wall? Do you think you’ll still use it as much when all of the gyms open back up?
I use it 3-4 times a week. It’s easy to get light pumps on and a full day of training in.
Any words of wisdom to aspiring homewallers?
Learn to make volumes. They change up your wall so much and give you all kinds of cool angles to work with.
Do you have any connection to climbing brands or gyms?
Not at the moment, but if anyone reading this wants to hook me up just let me know.
