Lumber projects are among of the fastest and most cost-effective ways to improve the look and function of your outdoor space. Even if you have little to no woodworking experience, there are plenty of projects you can do that will deliver a dramatic result.
Here are four of our favorite lumber projects that seem tough at first glance but are actually pretty simple.
Patio Cover
Whether you call it a patio cover or a pergola, this is a fantastic way to create an impressive centerpiece that increases your outdoor living space. Provided that your patio cover is not attached to your house, this is a project that can be done by a first-timer in a few days. (Note: attached patio covers require specialized knowledge to affix a ledger board to the house’s structure to ensure that the weight of the patio cover and water intrusion don’t cause damage. Attached patio covers should be installed by licensed professionals or those with extensive construction experience.)
The easiest way to get started on your freestanding patio cover project is to use a pre-designed kit. We sell complete patio cover kits in various styles with all the lumber and building supplies you’ll need. Though we refer them as “kits,” each one is customized for your particular project, not prepackaged by a manufacturer. Our three classic styles –The Coronado, The Catalina and the Capistrano – feature classic wood lattice construction with a variety of style options for the corbel and knee-braces.
Because the wood comes pre-cut to your specifications, you likely won’t need to buy (or know how to operate) a table saw or any other woodworking equipment – just your basic hammer, screw and drill will do! Additionally, patio cover kits will speed up your build because you’ll already have all your materials on-hand and you typically won’t need to stop construction to measure or cut.
The amount of time it will take to erect your patio cover depends on how much woodworking experience you already have, how many helpers you can wrangle, and how much time you have to devote to your project. However, for a first-timer, most patio cover kit projects can be completed over the course of two or three weekends.
Clear Cedar Gate
Visually upgrade your property entrance, backyard fence, or parking area by swapping out a tired or basic existing gate. No experience is required and there’s no need to call a contractor. These days it’s possible to buy beautiful, pre-built gates that are designed by experts and ready to hang.
We stock Sederra Gates, which are made from high quality western red cedar, an economical, beautiful lumber that works perfectly for outdoor use. Browse our collection of pre-built gates and select the style that looks best in your space. Remember that you can always stain or paint your gate to match the surrounding fence, or you can keep it natural to create contrast. Different hardware styles also make a difference in how your gate looks. We sell GateMate and Boerboel hardware, which feature many hinge and latch designs – from traditional to modern – to suit your taste.
Before you get started, make sure that the posts from which you will hang your new gate stand firmly in the ground. If your posts are wobbly, you’ll need to pour more concrete to secure them before hanging your gate.
Ground-level bamboo deck
All decking material, wood or composite, requires a certain amount of ventilation and water runoff under the decking to avoid cupping. MOSO® Bamboo X-treme® Outdoor Decking requires the least amount of space, allowing you to get the closest to the ground. (That said, always check and follow manufacturer’s installation instructions). Just as the name indicates, the understructure for ground-level decks sits directly on the ground, which reduces the need for complex engineering calculations and extensive construction experience. In a nutshell, ground level decks are basically low boxes whose weight is distributed evenly and supported by the earth.
When brainstorming the design of your ground-level deck, consider its use. Squares or rectangles with large surface areas are good for outdoor gathering areas. Smaller platforms provide a dedicated space for yoga, workouts, or a kids’ play area. Meanwhile, a series of skinnier decks can be connected to create a clean-lined walkway.
We love using bamboo for ground level decks because it’s a lightweight material that looks great, is easy to install and resists damage. MOSO® bamboo decking is ecologically sustainable and specially treated to deliver long life in outdoor applications.
If you choose not to use bamboo, it’s crucial that you select the correct materials. All wood labeled “ground contact” is treated to resist damage from moisture and pests that happens when touching raw earth. Never use wood that is graded for “above ground use,” as this wood is not treated to withstand the demands of ground contact and will begin to decay quickly.
Talk to the specialists at your local lumber yard about your deck objectives. If possible, bring pictures of your backyard and a rough sketch of your idea. They’ll help you solidify your design and gather all the lumber and building supplies you’ll need.
Decorative Screen Panels
This is the easiest of the lumber projects because all it really requires is a drill. Decorative screen panels are attractive laser cut panels that you attach to an existing fence or structure to add instant visual flair.
OUTDECO modular panels are made from Australian hardwood that has been specially treated for outdoor use. With an impressive array of designs ranging from crisp, clean-lined patterns to freeform cut-outs that mimic shapes found in nature, you can choose a style that works best with your outdoor décor.
Though painting is not required, you can use outdoor paint to further customize the look of your panels. Take it one step further by adding hidden string lights, creeping ivy or hanging succulents to create a one-of-a-kind space.
You don’t have to be a master woodworker to complete an impressive lumber project that enhances your outdoor area. These projects are manageable for beginners and deliver a satisfying result. As with anything, the more experience you gain, the more confident you will become. In fact, getting your hands a little sawdusty might even lead you to a new lifelong passion for woodworking.
These are indeed simple projects, by this summer, I would like to embark to a lumber project like this some time in the future. Probably this summer or by the time the pandemic dies.