Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Lumber list

Hi Again,

Some of you would like to know the number of boards to purchase to build the frame of the 4 x 8 foot coop. Here is an easy guide.

Buy 4 pieces of the 8' cedar or treated deck-board or the 2x6 ACQ lumber that will be ripped in two to make the frame. Buy 4 pieces of the 10' lengths as well. This will give you a few extra pieces for error and your own creative modifications. The 10' lengths will be cut in two to 5', then ripped in two, producing 4, 5' 2"x3" framing members. The 8' pieces will be cut to 4' or used as the full 8'.

So, give this list to your lumber yard.



4 @ 10' 5/4" or 2" x 6" x #3 or better cedar or treated lumber
10 @ 8' 5/4" or 2" x 6", #3 or better cedar or treated lumber

I would not rip all of the lumber until you are ready to use it. Two reasons, The lumber tends to warp more easily after being ripped. Also, you may be able to return a few of the sticks if you build carefully and creatively.

If you choose to use the 2"x3" SPF (Spruce, Pine or Fir, untreated) lumber, you will not need to rip the wood. However, plan to seal this untreated lumber more thoroughly, especially where the wood comes in contact or near contact with the moist earth.

Happy Building!

Dennis

2 comments:

Alisha said...

Where can I purchase the 8x8 plans?

Unknown said...

Hi.
Could you show more detail on the gussets ? It is not clear to me how they contribute to keeping the walls together.