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Build a Cedar Window Box in a Weekend (ARA)
Description: Tips for building a cedar window box in a weekend.
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Turning the backyard into an outdoor living retreat is one of
the
hottest trends among American homeowners. It makes sense; with
televisions,
computers and phones in nearly every room of the house, the backyard
deck is
the final safe haven from life’s pressures. Escaping to a quiet corner
of
the yard provides a necessary respite.
Creating a truly relaxing setting takes more than a laid back approach.
Whether you’ve just constructed a new deck or simply want to update
your
existing one, there are many ways to make it feel like a restful
retreat.
One of the easiest ways to brighten and improve your outdoor living
space is
with flower window boxes made from all-natural western red cedar. These
stylish boxes are simple to build and can dress up your front or
backyard
outdoor living space when filled with colorful flowers, herbs,
vegetables
and vines.
Here are a few considerations to remember when enhancing your outdoor
living
space with cedar window boxes, as well as building instructions:
Determining the Size of the Window Box
Begin by custom designing the cedar window box to the window width. The
box
should be as wide as the window frame including trim. This width can
vary
based on personal preference, but the look of an equal width window box
to
the window frame is quite appealing. Additionally, use 1” thick cedar
for
this project, thicker boards will increase the weight, and prove
cumbersome
for removal during the winter months or replanting in the spring.
If considering placing long plastic planters in the cedar window box
rather
than planting directly, buy the planters first as the depth, width and
length will determine the cedar window box size. If planting within the
box
directly, the dimensions are not as critical.
The advantage of using plastic planters is so you can lift the planter
out
of the box to change soil or plants. This method is best for second
story
windows or any window too high to get to from the ground.
Resources:
Window Boxes: Indoors & Out
Creative Window Boxes
Container Plants: For Patios, Balconies, and Window Boxes
Building the Cedar Window Box
Start by cutting 1” thick cedar into the required pieces:
* Two pieces the same size for the front and back. These lengths should
match
the window width.
* Two pieces the same size for the sides. The size of these should
reflect
the width and depth you choose.
* One piece for the bottom. This piece should be the same length as the
front
and back, and two inches wider than the sides.
Next, pre-drill guide holes in the front and back pieces at each end.
Repeat
on the bottom piece but drill an additional one-inch hole in the middle
to
allow for drainage.
Now, glue the front and back pieces to the sides -- be certain the
correct
sides are exposed outward. Waterproof wood glue works well. Then, using
the
pre-drilled holes as guides, screw the front and back pieces to the
sides
with 1-1/3-inch galvanized screws. These screws will provide ample
stability
and not react with the natural preservatives within the western red
cedar.
Lastly, glue the bottom piece to the bottom of your window box and
screw
that into place as well. Then sand, prime and paint the window box if
you
desire.
Mounting the Window Box
Many mounting options are acceptable. For windows extended to or near
the
ground, simply place the window box under the window for a nice touch.
For
higher windows, begin the mounting process by drilling two
1/2-inch-diameter
holes in the back of the cedar window box, approximately a quarter-way
in
from each end and 1-1/2-inch below the top edge. Holding the cedar
window
box in position under the window, hammer a 3/8-inch hanger bolt through
each
hole onto the house siding enough to make an indentation or mark.
Next, remove the window box and drill two 1/2-inch pilot holes at the
indentation marks. When installing the hanger bolts, allow two inches
of
each bolt to protrude from the house. Hang the window box on the hanger
bolts and screw a 3/8-inch washer and nut on the end of each bolt.
The Western Red Cedar Lumber Association (WRCLA) has developed a
collection
of planters, boxes, benches and table project ideas for homeowners.
Available online at http://www.realcedar.org or in a brochure format, this
compilation of outdoor living ideas includes recommendations for
creating
new looks, adding to your outdoor living space, as well as tips for
table
and bench construction. To order a brochure, call (866) 778-9096 or
pick one
up at your local building material retailer.
Courtesy of ARA Content.
