Backyard DIY Building Projects For The Handy Homeowner
Have you been wanting to spruce up your backyard but don't know where to start? Luckily, we've gathered some easy DIY projects that will make your backyard truly awesome!
1. Outdoor Movie Screen
Who needs a movie theater when you can have one in your own backyard? All you need is a white sheet and a projector! Hang the sheet up between two trees or on a clothesline and project your favorite movies or TV shows for an outdoor movie night with friends and family.
2. Raised Garden Bed
If you have a green thumb, consider building a raised garden bed in your backyard. Not only will it add some aesthetic appeal, but it will also provide a space to grow your own fruits and vegetables! There are plenty of instructions online for building raised garden beds, so pick a design that fits your backyard and start digging!
3. Birdhouse
Invite some feathered friends to your backyard by building a birdhouse! Not only will it add some decor to your backyard, but you'll be helping out your local bird population. Make sure to do some research on which types of birds are common in your area and build a birdhouse that suits their needs.
4. Pallet Swing
Transform a pallet into a cozy swing for your backyard! You'll need some hardware, rope, and cushions, but the end result is a comfortable and unique addition to your outdoor space. Hang it from a sturdy tree branch or a pergola for the perfect spot to relax and read a book on a lazy afternoon.
5. Fire Pit
A homemade fire pit can be a great addition to your backyard for those chilly evenings or for getting cozy with friends and family. There are many ways to build a fire pit, whether it's with bricks, stones or even an old washing machine drum! Make sure to check your local regulations before starting this project.
6. Rain Barrel
Save water and money by building your own rain barrel! This is an especially great project for those living in drier climates. You'll need a large drum, a spigot, and some basic tools to start collecting rainwater for watering your plants, lawn, or washing your car.
7. Fountain
Add some ambiance to your backyard with a DIY fountain! You can create one using stacked stones, a ceramic pot or a mix of materials. The sound of trickling water is a calming and soothing addition to any backyard space. Just make sure to add a splash pad or a splash table to prevent water waste from misting as the fountain works.
8. Hammock
Nothing says relaxation like a hammock in the backyard. It can be a simple DIY project, requiring just a few materials to get started. Hang the hammock between two trees, install extra sturdy poles or get a freestanding hammock for maximum comfort.
How To
1. Outdoor Movie Screen
- Find a white sheet or tarp large enough for your desired projection screen size – a standard king-sized flat sheet usually works well for most projectors.
- Sew grommets or loops onto the corners of your sheet so that you can attach it to a frame or ropes.
- Find a flat, white surface to project onto, such as a garage door or white fence.
- Hang the sheet up using ropes, bungee cords, or clamps.
- Set up your projector and enjoy your movie!
2. Raised Garden Bed
- Choose the spot in your backyard where you want to build the garden bed. Consider factors like sunlight, water availability, and accessibility.
- Decide on the size and shape of your garden bed, making sure it's not too big or too small for the space.
- Clear the area of any grass, weeds, or debris.
- Build your garden bed using materials like wood, metal, or concrete blocks, depending on the design you've chosen.
- Add soil and compost to the bed, and plant your favorite fruits, vegetables, or flowers!
3. Birdhouse
- Choose a type of birdhouse that's suitable for the birds in your area. Different species of birds have different preferences for size, entrance hole placement, and height off the ground.
- Find plans for your chosen birdhouse design online or create your own.
- Gather materials like wood, screws, nails, and a drill.
- Build the birdhouse according to your plans.
- Place the birdhouse in a spot that's accessible to birds and protected from predators.
4. Pallet Swing
- Find a sturdy pallet that's in good condition. Check to make sure it's not rotten or full of splinters.
- Clean and sand the pallet to ensure there are no rough edges or splinters.
- Attach eye bolts to each corner of the pallet for hanging.
- Attach ropes to each eye bolt and hang the swing from a sturdy tree branch or pergola.
- Add cushions and enjoy your new swing!
5. Fire Pit
- Check your local regulations to ensure it's legal to build a fire pit in your backyard.
- Decide on the size and shape of your fire pit and gather materials like bricks or stones, sand, and gravel.
- Clear a spot in your backyard and dig a shallow pit, making sure the area is level.
- Stack your bricks or stones in a circular or square shape, leaving space for air flow.
- Add sand and gravel to the bottom of the pit.
- Enjoy your new backyard fire pit!
6. Rain Barrel
- Choose a large drum for your rain barrel. Plastic drums or barrels work well for this project.
- Clean the barrel thoroughly to remove any residue or debris.
- Drill a hole near the top of the barrel for the spigot.
- Drill a hole near the top of the barrel for an overflow valve or hose.
- Place the barrel under a gutter downspout or other area where rainwater collects.
- Attach a spigot and hose to the barrel and start using your free rainwater!
7. Fountain
- Choose a design for your fountain using materials like stacked stones, a ceramic pot, or even an old washing machine drum.
- Create a basin for the fountain using a plastic tub or other waterproof liner.
- Arrange stones, pots, or other materials for the fountain in the basin, making sure to leave room for the water to flow through.
- Add a pump to the basin and attach tubing to the pump.
- Fill the basin with water and plug in the pump – your fountain is complete!
8. Hammock
- Choose a spot in your backyard where you want to hang your hammock.
- Measure the distance between two trees or poles if you're hanging a rope hammock.
- Choose hardware like S-hooks or carabiners to attach the hammock to your hanging location.
- Attach the hammock to the hardware and ensure it's level and secure.
- Add cushions or blankets for maximum relaxation.
Tips & Tricks
- Make sure to choose projects that fit your skill level and the amount of time you have available.
- Consider repurposing old items like pallets or ceramic pots for your DIY projects to save money and reduce waste.
- Make your backyard projects eco-friendly by using reclaimed materials, planting native species of plants, and avoiding harmful chemicals.
- Remember to wear protective equipment like gloves, goggles, and masks when using power tools or harsh chemicals.
- Get creative with your projects – add LED lights to your fountain or birdhouse, or paint your pallet swing to match your backyard decor!
FAQ
Q: How much will it cost to build a raised garden bed?
A: Costs can vary depending on the size of the bed and the materials you choose, but basic raised garden beds can be built for as little as $50-100.
Q: Can I use any drum or barrel for a rain barrel?
A: No – be sure to choose a plastic or metal drum that didn't hold toxic chemicals or hazardous materials.
Q: Do I need to have a certain type of projector to make an outdoor movie screen?
A: No – any projector that can connect to a laptop or DVD player will work for an outdoor movie screen.
Q: How can I make sure my birdhouse is safe for birds?
A: Do some research on the specific birds in your area and what types of birdhouses they prefer. Ensure the entrance hole is big enough for the birds to enter but small enough to prevent predators from getting in. Finally, make sure the birdhouse is placed in a safe and protected area away from predators.
With these easy DIY projects, your backyard will be the envy of the neighborhood in no time. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to relax or a fun activity for your next party, these ideas are sure to make your backyard awesome!
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