Hardside Ice shack advice

[benny8]

Hey all, I know I probably should post this in the Ice Shack section,  but was looking for advice from my local NH fishermen and women. I built a hardside shack about 15 years ago that we used for a couple years and then sold. Got out of the sport for about 10 years, and now my brother and I are back at it. He has a young family, 6 and 9 year olds. He wants to build another hardside to get his family out on the ice with him. looking for suggestions on building materials to keep it as light as possible, but yet strong enough. We are looking at a 6'x8' build. I have a landscape trailer for transport and have a snowmobile and wheeler for ice transport. Ideally I would like to be able to push it by hand to where ever we want to set it, but of course snow depths would impact that. Any information or advice is greatly appreciated.

[Running for flags]

Well if money isn’t a object people are doing some really nice and light builds with aluminum! If that doesn’t fit your budget then I have seen people use foam board as walls with some 2x4 braces and some of that plastic roofing from Home Depot

[benny8]

Thanks Running. I talked with him today and aluminum is way over his budget. Im thinking of a hybrid. I have made the kind that the ends flip up and has a tarp stretched across the middle(sides and roof). Looks like we might build a base on runners and then a timber frame, if you will. Luan on the ends and tarp over the middle walls and roof. Will have plenty of cross bracing and such. Guess that is the plan for now. Having built my house and camp and owning a construction business for 5 years(moonlighting), it is hard to not overbuild stuff. LOL

[Running for flags]

I bet it is good luck!
I found a budget build on Pinterest that I save looks pretty good with instructions and all

[james]

I framed mine with 2X2 studs and 2" foam insulation panels in between studs and wrapped it with tyvek. Plenty warm, lite, and rugged.

[benny8]

Thanks guys! I will try and post up pics as I progress.

[Arctic Addict]

Hi Benny,

Good luck with the build, I am looking to build a lightweight skid frame the same size.  I have been considering using water ban rolled on 1/4" plywood with 2"x2" framing 16" on center with glued and screwed framing.  My other option is a similar frame with aluminum trim coil for siding.  I am leaning to the second option as it will be much lighter.

[benny8]

Just want to thank everyone for their help and suggestions. Looks like we have decided to take another route. Basically, my garage is not able to house the build due to materials for my Camp. We decided on a Eskimo hub style popup. In all reality, it will work out better due to being able to fish different bodies of water and not having to worry about getting it on and off certain water bodies.  I have seen these hubs with what looked to be some type of rubber mat or foam mat. I believe it is something someone purchased separate from the blind. Any ideas what it may be and where it can be purchased? Also, looking for suggestions on propane cookstove that would serve double duty as a cooker and some heat. Thanks in advance.

[CA1492]

For mats I use a couple of the ones with puzzle edges.
Least expensive place I've seen them is R&R wholesalers in Hooksett.

[Arctic Addict]

X2 on the 2'x2' foam square exercise mats.  Lightweight and easy to put down.

[ice dawg]

Any ideas what it may be and where it can be purchased? Also, looking for suggestions on propane cookstove that would serve double duty as a cooker and some heat. Thanks in advance.

I bought rubber anti-fatigue mats at Menards. There are several types and lots of stores carry them. You may want to look into a Mr Heater Cooker Heater for your use. Probably lots of options according to your taste.

[benny8]

Many thanks again for the puzzle mats and heater/cooker ideas! Tight Lines all!

[Running for flags]

The foam mats at 5 below are $3 a piece and good size just a suggestion! Also no matter what type of grill you get your going to want a table

[dbickom]

I've been using an E-Z Up Canopy.  Had an old tarp cut to the right height and length I use for the sides - I cut holes and taped clear shower curtain for windows.  Brought a Cast Iron Pot last year filled with Charcoal to keep my hands warm and to cook hot dogs.  When I take the snowmobile I park it under the Canopy.  Great for 1-4 people and a party when more!