DIY Climbing Wall: Build Your Own Adventure

DIY climbing wall: the phrase conjures images of thrilling ascents, challenging routes, and the satisfaction of building your own personal fitness haven. Whether you’re an experienced climber seeking a home training space or a beginner looking for an exciting new hobby, constructing a DIY climbing wall is a rewarding project that can transform your backyard, garage, or even a spare room into a vertical playground.

This comprehensive guide will take you through every step of the process, from initial planning and design to choosing the right materials and building a safe and functional climbing wall. We’ll explore different types of climbing walls, safety considerations, and creative design ideas, all while keeping your budget in mind. Get ready to unleash your inner builder and embark on a journey to create your own climbing masterpiece.

Introduction to DIY Climbing Walls

Building a DIY climbing wall can be a rewarding project, allowing you to create a unique and challenging training space in your own home or backyard. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of climbing without the expense of a gym membership.

Benefits of Building a DIY Climbing Wall

There are many advantages to creating your own climbing wall. You have complete control over the design, size, and features, allowing you to customize it to your specific needs and preferences. This can be particularly beneficial for climbers with specific training goals or who want to create a wall that caters to their individual skill level.

Additionally, building a DIY climbing wall is significantly more cost-effective than joining a climbing gym. You can save a considerable amount of money by using readily available materials and completing the construction yourself. This can make climbing accessible to a wider range of people, especially those on a tight budget.

Types of DIY Climbing Walls

There are various types of climbing walls you can build, each with its own advantages and challenges. Here are some popular options:

Free-Standing Walls: These are self-supporting structures that can be placed anywhere in your home or yard. They are typically made of wood and are ideal for smaller spaces or those who prefer a more portable option. Free-standing walls are relatively easy to build and can be customized to fit your specific needs.
Wall-Mounted Walls: These walls are attached directly to an existing wall, making them a space-saving option. They can be constructed from a variety of materials, including plywood, concrete, or even repurposed materials. Wall-mounted walls are a good choice for those who want to maximize their space and create a more integrated climbing experience.
Modular Walls: These walls are made up of individual panels that can be easily assembled and reconfigured. This makes them a versatile option for those who want to change the layout of their wall or who have limited space. Modular walls are often made from lightweight materials, such as plywood or foam, making them easier to move and adjust.
Outdoor Walls: These walls are designed for outdoor use and can be constructed from a variety of materials, such as concrete, wood, or metal. Outdoor walls offer a more natural climbing experience and can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors while getting a workout.

Safety Considerations for DIY Climbing Walls

Safety is paramount when building and using a DIY climbing wall. It is essential to prioritize safety throughout the entire process, from the initial planning to the final construction. Here are some important safety considerations:

Use High-Quality Materials: The materials you use for your climbing wall should be strong and durable, capable of withstanding the stresses of climbing. Ensure that the wood is free of knots and defects, and that the fasteners are strong and securely attached.
Securely Attach the Wall: If you are building a wall-mounted structure, ensure that it is securely attached to the wall using appropriate fasteners and anchors. The wall should be able to withstand the weight of the climber and any potential impact forces.
Install Proper Anchors and Holds: Use high-quality climbing holds and anchors that are specifically designed for climbing walls. Ensure that they are installed securely and are rated for the weight of the climber. Regularly inspect the holds and anchors for signs of wear or damage.
Provide Adequate Padding: It is essential to provide adequate padding around the base of the climbing wall to protect climbers from falls. This can be achieved using crash pads, mats, or other types of padding. The padding should be thick and dense enough to absorb the impact of a fall.
Use a Belay System: If you are building a wall that is taller than 10 feet, it is essential to use a belay system to protect climbers from falls. This system should be properly set up and operated by a qualified belayer. It is also important to ensure that the belay system is inspected regularly for signs of wear or damage.

Choosing Climbing Holds

Choosing the right climbing holds is essential for creating a challenging and enjoyable climbing experience. They are the foundation of your climbing wall, influencing the types of routes you can create and the difficulty levels you can offer.

Hold Types

Different types of climbing holds are designed to mimic various natural rock formations, offering diverse challenges and climbing styles.

Jugs: These large, rounded holds provide easy handholds, perfect for beginners or for establishing a secure starting point on a route.
Crimps: Small, narrow holds that require a strong grip and finger strength. They are often found on challenging routes, testing the climber’s ability to hold on with minimal contact.
Slopers: Smooth, angled holds that require a lot of friction and balance to maintain a grip. These holds are challenging because they offer little in the way of edges or pockets to grab onto.
Pockets: These are small, deep indentations that can be challenging to grip, requiring the climber to use their fingers and thumb to secure a hold.
Edges: These are sharp, defined edges that offer a strong grip, often used for technical climbing movements.
Pinches: These holds are often two parallel edges that require the climber to pinch them together with their fingers and thumb.

Hold Materials

Climbing holds are typically made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of repeated use.

Plastic: The most common material for climbing holds, offering a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. Plastic holds are often affordable, lightweight, and easy to clean.
Wood: Wood holds offer a more natural feel and can be aesthetically pleasing. They can be heavier than plastic holds but are often more durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Resin: Resin holds are a type of plastic that is often used for outdoor climbing walls. They are known for their durability and ability to withstand extreme temperatures.

Hold Arrangement

The arrangement of your climbing holds will determine the types of routes you can create and the difficulty levels you can offer. A well-designed hold arrangement should:

Offer a variety of hold types: Include a mix of jugs, crimps, slopers, pockets, edges, and pinches to provide diverse challenges and climbing styles.
Create a range of difficulty levels: Include easy, medium, and difficult holds to cater to climbers of all skill levels.
Provide opportunities for different climbing movements: Encourage climbers to use various techniques, such as traversing, slab climbing, and overhang climbing.
Create interesting and challenging routes: Think about the flow of the routes and how they will challenge climbers both physically and mentally.

Wall Surface and Material

The foundation of your DIY climbing wall is the surface material. Choosing the right material will significantly impact the climbing experience, durability, and overall cost of your project. Consider factors like budget, space constraints, and desired climbing style when making your decision.

Plywood

Plywood is a popular and versatile material for DIY climbing walls. It offers a good balance of strength, affordability, and ease of installation.

Advantages:
- Cost-effective: Plywood is relatively inexpensive compared to other materials.
- Easy to work with: It can be cut and shaped easily with basic tools.
- Lightweight: Plywood is relatively lightweight, making it easier to transport and install.
- Versatile: Plywood can be used for both indoor and outdoor climbing walls.
Disadvantages:
- Not as durable as concrete: Plywood can be susceptible to damage from repeated impacts.
- Requires regular maintenance: Plywood may need to be sanded or repainted periodically.
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty use: Plywood may not be strong enough for high-intensity climbing or large climbers.

Concrete

Concrete is a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand heavy use. It is often used for commercial climbing walls but can also be a good option for DIY projects.

Advantages:
- Extremely durable: Concrete is resistant to wear and tear, making it suitable for high-intensity climbing.
- Low maintenance: Once cured, concrete requires minimal maintenance.
- Suitable for outdoor use: Concrete can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Disadvantages:
- Costly: Concrete is more expensive than plywood.
- Heavy: Concrete is heavy, making it difficult to transport and install.
- Difficult to work with: Requires specialized tools and skills to create a climbing surface.

Other Materials

Other materials, such as OSB (oriented strand board), MDF (medium-density fiberboard), or even repurposed wood, can be used for creating a climbing surface.

OSB: OSB is a cheaper alternative to plywood but is less durable. It can be used for indoor walls with moderate use.
MDF: MDF is a denser and smoother material than OSB, but it can be more difficult to work with. It is often used for indoor climbing walls where a smooth finish is desired.
Repurposed Wood: Using reclaimed wood adds a unique character to your climbing wall and is an eco-friendly option. Be sure to inspect the wood for any defects or potential safety hazards.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount when building and using a DIY climbing wall. It’s essential to incorporate robust safety features to minimize risks and ensure a secure climbing experience.

Harness and Belay System

A climbing harness and belay system are fundamental safety components. The harness distributes the force of a fall across the climber’s body, preventing injuries. The belay system controls the rope, providing a safety backup during a fall.

Harness Installation:
- Locate the waist belt and leg loops on the harness. The waist belt should be snug but comfortable.
- Adjust the leg loops to ensure a secure fit, allowing for a small amount of movement.
- Double-check the harness buckles are securely closed.
Belay System Setup:
- Choose a belay device compatible with your rope and climbing style. Common belay devices include the ATC, GriGri, and Reverso.
- Attach the belay device to the belay loop on the harness.
- Thread the rope through the belay device and secure it to the belayer’s anchor point.
- Ensure the belay device is correctly installed and the rope is running smoothly through it.
Belaying Techniques:
- Belaying with an ATC:
  - Hold the ATC with your dominant hand, ensuring the rope is properly threaded through it.
  - Use your non-dominant hand to control the rope by holding it above the belay device.
  - As the climber ascends, feed out rope with your non-dominant hand, maintaining a slight tension.
  - During a fall, lock the ATC by clamping it firmly against the rope, stopping the climber’s descent.
- Belaying with a GriGri:
  - The GriGri’s assisted braking system provides added safety, automatically locking the rope in a fall.
  - Hold the GriGri with your dominant hand, ensuring the rope is properly threaded through it.
  - Use your non-dominant hand to control the rope by holding it above the belay device.
  - As the climber ascends, feed out rope with your non-dominant hand, maintaining a slight tension.
  - During a fall, the GriGri automatically locks the rope, stopping the climber’s descent.

Fall Arrest System

A fall arrest system is crucial for catching a climber in case of a fall. The system comprises the harness, belay device, rope, and anchor points.

A fall arrest system should be designed to arrest the climber’s fall, preventing them from reaching the ground.

Anchor Points:
- Anchor points should be strong enough to withstand the force of a fall.
- Secure anchor points to structural supports or a dedicated climbing wall frame.
- Use multiple anchor points for redundancy, distributing the load across multiple points.
Rope Selection:
- Choose a climbing rope specifically designed for climbing, with a dynamic rating suitable for the wall’s height.
- Check the rope’s condition regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Fall Factor:
- The fall factor is the ratio of the distance a climber falls to the length of rope out.
- A higher fall factor indicates a more severe impact force on the climber and the rope.
- A fall factor of 1 or less is generally considered safe.

Lighting and Aesthetics

Lighting and aesthetics are crucial aspects of a DIY climbing wall, enhancing both safety and the overall climbing experience. Proper lighting ensures clear visibility of holds and potential hazards, while a visually appealing design adds to the enjoyment of the space.

Lighting Plan

A well-designed lighting plan enhances visibility and safety on your climbing wall.

Sufficient Illumination: Ensure adequate lighting throughout the climbing area, especially near the wall and landing zone. Aim for a minimum of 50 foot-candles (540 lux) of illumination.
Even Distribution: Avoid harsh shadows and glare by using multiple light sources positioned strategically. This ensures even illumination across the entire wall.
Color Temperature: Choose a cool white color temperature (4000-4500K) for optimal visibility, as it mimics daylight and helps distinguish colors.
Glare Reduction: Consider using diffusers or frosted bulbs to minimize glare, which can be distracting and potentially dangerous.

Decorative Elements

Decorative elements can transform your climbing wall into a visually appealing and functional space.

Wall Paint: Choose a bold color that complements the climbing holds and creates a dynamic atmosphere.
Wall Murals: Add a custom mural or artwork to the wall, reflecting your personal style and interests.
Climbing Hold Placement: Arrange climbing holds in creative patterns and clusters to enhance the visual appeal and challenge of the wall.
Lighting Fixtures: Incorporate decorative lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights or spotlights, to create a unique ambiance.

Visual Appeal and Functionality

A visually appealing and functional climbing space should consider both aesthetics and practicality.

Color Scheme: Choose a color scheme that is both visually stimulating and conducive to climbing.
Space Organization: Optimize the layout of the climbing wall and surrounding area for ease of movement and access.
Storage Solutions: Implement practical storage solutions for climbing gear, such as shelves, racks, or pegboards.
Comfort Features: Include comfortable seating areas, a water fountain, or a small refrigerator to enhance the overall experience.

Building a Climbing Wall on a Budget

Building a climbing wall doesn’t have to break the bank. With some smart planning and resourceful approaches, you can create a challenging and fun climbing experience without spending a fortune. This section will guide you through cost-effective strategies for materials, tools, and repurposing existing items to create a budget-friendly climbing wall.

Finding Affordable Materials and Tools

Finding affordable materials and tools is crucial for keeping your climbing wall project within budget. Here are some tips:

Look for sales and clearance items: Keep an eye out for sales and clearance events at home improvement stores and lumberyards. You might find discounted plywood, lumber, or fasteners.
Consider used materials: Check online marketplaces, local classifieds, and secondhand stores for used materials. You can often find affordable plywood, beams, and other construction materials in good condition.
Utilize recycled materials: Repurposing materials can significantly reduce costs. For example, you can use old pallets for framing, scrap metal for mounting holds, or even repurposed tires for creating a unique climbing surface.
Shop around for tools: Compare prices at different retailers and consider renting tools instead of buying them if you only need them for a short period.

Repurposing Existing Materials

Repurposing existing materials is a fantastic way to build a climbing wall on a budget. Here are some ideas:

Use old pallets for framing: Pallets are readily available and can be used to create a sturdy frame for your climbing wall.
Utilize scrap metal for mounting holds: Metal scraps can be welded or bolted to the wall to create a secure mounting system for climbing holds.
Repurpose tires for a unique climbing surface: Old tires can be cut and attached to the wall to create a challenging and textured climbing surface.
Use old furniture for climbing holds: Repurpose old furniture pieces, like chairs or stools, into unique climbing holds.

Cost Breakdown for a DIY Climbing Wall Project

Here’s a general cost breakdown for a DIY climbing wall project, considering various options:

Item	Cost Range	Notes
Materials (plywood, lumber, fasteners)	$100 – $500	Cost depends on size, quality, and type of materials used.
Climbing holds	$50 – $200+	Cost varies based on the number, size, and type of holds.
Tools (saw, drill, level, tape measure)	$50 – $150	Rent or buy tools based on your needs and budget.
Safety equipment (harness, belay device, rope)	$100 – $300	Invest in high-quality safety equipment for a secure climbing experience.
Optional extras (lighting, paint, accessories)	$50 – $150+	Optional features like lighting, paint, and accessories can add to the cost.

Estimated total cost: $250 – $1,100+

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Even the most well-planned and carefully constructed DIY climbing wall can encounter issues over time. Understanding common problems and how to address them is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of your climbing wall. This section will guide you through troubleshooting and maintenance techniques to keep your climbing wall in top condition.

Identifying Common Issues

Identifying potential problems early can prevent minor issues from escalating into major repairs. Here are some common issues that can arise during construction or use:

Loose or Shifting Anchors: Over time, the anchors holding your climbing holds can loosen due to repeated use or changes in temperature and humidity. This can lead to holds becoming unstable or falling off the wall, posing a safety risk.
Cracked or Damaged Wall Surface: The surface of your climbing wall can be susceptible to cracks, chips, or other damage from repeated impacts, especially if it’s made of concrete or plaster. These damages can weaken the wall and create potential hazards.
Worn or Damaged Climbing Holds: Climbing holds, especially those made of plastic or resin, can wear down over time due to constant use. This can lead to sharp edges or cracks, increasing the risk of injury.
Loose or Damaged Hardware: Screws, bolts, nuts, and other hardware used to secure your climbing holds and anchors can loosen or become damaged over time. This can lead to instability and potential hazards.
Moisture and Mold Growth: If your climbing wall is exposed to moisture, mold or mildew can grow on the wall surface or on climbing holds. This can create a health hazard and affect the aesthetics of your wall.

Troubleshooting and Repairing Problems

Once you’ve identified an issue, you need to troubleshoot and repair it effectively. Here are some common solutions:

Loose or Shifting Anchors

Tighten Loose Anchors: Regularly inspect your anchors and tighten any that feel loose. Use a wrench or socket wrench to ensure the anchors are securely fastened.
Replace Damaged Anchors: If an anchor is damaged or beyond repair, replace it with a new one of the same type and size. Make sure the new anchor is installed securely and properly.

Cracked or Damaged Wall Surface

Repair Minor Cracks: Small cracks can be repaired with a suitable epoxy or concrete patching compound. Clean the crack thoroughly, apply the patching compound, and allow it to cure completely before using the wall.
Replace Damaged Sections: For larger cracks or significant damage, you may need to replace the affected section of the wall. This may involve removing the damaged portion and replacing it with a new piece of plywood or other suitable material.

Worn or Damaged Climbing Holds

Replace Worn Holds: Worn or damaged climbing holds should be replaced immediately. This will prevent injuries from sharp edges or cracks.
Sand Down Sharp Edges: If a hold has developed minor sharp edges, you can carefully sand them down with fine-grit sandpaper. However, this is a temporary solution, and the hold should eventually be replaced.

Loose or Damaged Hardware

Tighten Loose Hardware: Regularly inspect all hardware and tighten any loose screws, bolts, or nuts. Use a wrench or socket wrench to ensure they are securely fastened.
Replace Damaged Hardware: If any hardware is damaged or beyond repair, replace it with new hardware of the same type and size. Make sure the new hardware is installed securely and properly.

Moisture and Mold Growth

Address Moisture Sources: Identify and eliminate any sources of moisture, such as leaks or condensation. This may involve fixing leaks, improving ventilation, or using a dehumidifier.
Clean Mold and Mildew: Clean any mold or mildew growth with a bleach solution or a commercial mold and mildew remover. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Apply a Moisture Barrier: Consider applying a moisture barrier to the wall surface to prevent future moisture problems.

Maintaining Your Climbing Wall

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of your climbing wall. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Inspect Regularly: Conduct a thorough inspection of your climbing wall at least once a month. Check for loose anchors, damaged holds, cracked or damaged wall surfaces, and loose or damaged hardware.
Tighten Hardware: Regularly tighten all screws, bolts, and nuts to ensure they are securely fastened.
Clean the Wall Surface: Clean the wall surface regularly to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a mild detergent and water, and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the wall surface.
Inspect Climbing Holds: Regularly inspect all climbing holds for wear and tear. Replace any holds that show signs of damage or wear.
Check Lighting: Ensure your climbing wall lighting is functioning properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and adjust the lighting as needed to provide adequate visibility.
Maintain Safety Features: Regularly inspect and maintain all safety features, such as crash pads, mats, and harnesses.

Advanced DIY Projects

Taking your DIY climbing wall to the next level involves venturing into more complex designs that offer greater challenges and versatility. These advanced projects demand a higher level of skill and planning, but the rewards are worth the effort.

Building a Freestanding Climbing Wall

A freestanding climbing wall offers the flexibility to be placed anywhere in your space, independent of any existing structure. This project requires a sturdy frame that can support the weight of the wall and climbers.

The construction process involves:

Designing the Frame: Determine the size and shape of your wall, and select a suitable material for the frame, such as wood or metal. Consider using pre-fabricated metal framing components for ease of assembly.
Creating the Wall Surface: Choose a suitable material for the wall surface, such as plywood, OSB, or even repurposed materials like shipping pallets. Ensure the material is strong enough to withstand the impact of climbers.
Securing the Wall: Anchor the frame to a solid foundation, such as concrete or a heavy-duty base. Use appropriate fasteners and consider adding diagonal bracing for additional stability.
Adding Climbing Holds: Install climbing holds to the wall surface using appropriate fasteners and spacing. Remember to factor in the weight of the holds and the forces they will endure.

Constructing a Climbing Wall with a Roof Overhang, Diy climbing wall

A roof overhang adds an exciting dimension to your climbing wall, introducing challenging moves that require dynamic climbing techniques. This project involves creating a structural overhang that is securely attached to the wall and can support the weight of climbers.

Key considerations for building a roof overhang include:

Designing the Overhang: Determine the size and angle of the overhang, considering the available space and the desired difficulty level. A steeper angle creates a more challenging overhang.
Selecting Materials: Choose sturdy materials for the overhang structure, such as wood or metal. Ensure that the material is strong enough to support the weight of climbers and the forces they will exert.
Securing the Overhang: Securely attach the overhang to the wall using strong fasteners and structural supports. Consider adding diagonal bracing for added stability.
Finishing the Overhang: Finish the overhang surface with a suitable material, such as plywood or OSB. Ensure the surface is smooth and safe for climbing.

Designing a Multi-faceted Climbing Wall

A multi-faceted climbing wall offers a variety of climbing angles and challenges, keeping your climbing sessions engaging and diverse. This project involves creating a wall with different sections that are angled at different degrees.

Designing a multi-faceted wall requires:

Planning the Layout: Determine the overall dimensions of the wall and the desired angles for each section. Consider creating a combination of vertical, overhanging, and even concave sections to provide diverse climbing experiences.
Building the Framework: Construct a sturdy framework for each section of the wall, ensuring that the angles are accurate and the structure is stable. Consider using metal framing components for ease of assembly.
Creating the Wall Surface: Apply a suitable wall surface material to each section, ensuring that the surface is smooth and safe for climbing.
Installing Climbing Holds: Strategically place climbing holds on each section, considering the angle and difficulty level of each section. Ensure that the holds are securely fastened to the wall surface.

Inspiring DIY Climbing Wall Designs

Building a DIY climbing wall is a fantastic way to bring the thrill of climbing into your home or backyard. But beyond the practical aspects, it’s also a chance to create a unique and personalized space that reflects your style and climbing goals.

The possibilities for design are truly endless, ranging from minimalist walls with a focus on functionality to elaborate structures that incorporate different climbing angles, textures, and even themed elements.

Visual Gallery of DIY Climbing Wall Designs

This section showcases diverse DIY climbing wall designs, each offering a glimpse into the creativity and ingenuity of home climbers.

Minimalist Wall: A simple, rectangular climbing wall with a clean, modern aesthetic. This design emphasizes functionality and is perfect for smaller spaces. The wall can be painted in a solid color or feature a subtle pattern, creating a sleek and minimalist look.
Overhang Wall: This design incorporates an overhang section, adding a challenging element to the climbing experience. The overhang can be created using plywood or other materials, and can be adjusted to suit different skill levels.
Modular Wall: A modular climbing wall consists of individual panels that can be arranged and rearranged to create different configurations. This design offers flexibility and allows you to adapt the wall to your evolving climbing needs.
Themed Wall: This type of climbing wall incorporates a specific theme, such as a jungle, a mountain range, or a futuristic cityscape. The theme can be achieved through the use of paint, climbing holds, and other decorative elements.

Resources for Finding Inspiration

The internet is a treasure trove of inspiration for DIY climbing wall designs. Here are some resources to get you started:

Online Forums and Communities: Websites like Reddit, Climbing.com, and Mountain Project host forums and communities where climbers share their DIY projects, offer advice, and inspire each other.
Social Media Platforms: Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube are filled with stunning visuals and detailed tutorials on building DIY climbing walls. Search for relevant hashtags like #DIYclimbingwall, #climbingwall, and #homeclimbing.
Climbing Magazines and Websites: Many climbing magazines and websites feature articles and photo galleries showcasing innovative DIY climbing wall designs.

Stories and Experiences from DIY Climbing Wall Builders

Real-life stories and experiences from other DIY climbing wall builders offer valuable insights and inspiration.

“I started with a simple plywood wall and gradually added features like an overhang and a traverse. It’s been a fun and rewarding project, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.” – John, DIY Climbing Wall Builder

“I wanted to create a climbing wall that would blend in with my home’s decor. I used reclaimed wood and painted it in a natural color scheme to achieve a rustic and organic look.” – Sarah, DIY Climbing Wall Builder

Closure

Building a DIY climbing wall is a project that combines creativity, skill, and a touch of adventure. By following the steps Artikeld in this guide, you can transform your space into a thrilling climbing haven, tailor-made to your preferences and budget. From the initial design to the final touches, every step of the process is an opportunity to personalize your climbing wall and create a space that reflects your unique style and climbing goals. So, gather your tools, unleash your imagination, and get ready to climb your way to a rewarding and exciting project.

Building a DIY climbing wall is a fantastic way to bring the excitement of the outdoors into your home. You can get creative with the design, using different textures and materials. Just like you can express your personal style with homemade earrings , you can personalize your climbing wall with unique holds and features.

Once your wall is complete, you’ll have a fun and challenging workout space right in your own backyard.