Planning & preparation
- To construct an outdoor bar from timber and decking boards. This begins with making the timber frames, cladding the panels and assembling the structure, finished with bar tops, a shelf and completing fascia.
- The materials for this project will cost under £400 and will take a DIYer with moderate skill, approximately 8 hours to build. We recommend having another pair of hands around to help with lifting the heavy cladding panels.
- Although the weather can be temperamental it’s a good idea to plan as working with wet treated wood can cause major shrinkage, warping and cracks later on.
- Make sure your timber is dry to get the best results and if the weather takes a turn for the worst, store or cover the wood allowing it to fully dry out before you continue your build.
- We recommend the bar is built on a solid surface to support the structure and protect it against the elements. These include concrete slabs, patio stone, decking and concrete, wood or plastic shed bases.
- We recommend putting your timber into piles and setting up your cutting station as close to your chosen assembly area as possible.
- The assembled structure will measure 1.76 x 1.18 x 2.4m at the tallest point of the pent roof, so it’s important to choose the location of your build carefully before you begin as the constructed bar will be large and heavy.
- Select an area that has a level surface with good ground conditions, ideally away from overhanging trees.
- Choose a space that will allow at least 2ft of surrounding space around your bar. This will allow the timber to breathe and ensure you’re able to access the outside panels for future treatments and any repairs.
- When selecting the perfect space, consider the aspect of your garden and whether you want your bar to sit in full sun or shade.
Do it right
- To build a traditional pent roof bar with dimensions of 1.76 x 1.18 x 2.4m.
- If you’re feeling adventurous or have the perfect area for your bar that’s an unusual space, you can change the size, shape and design with endless creative options.
- The timber we suggest using for this project is pressure treated for enhanced performance against rot and decay, however, we recommend using a clear wood preserver on all cut ends of timber to seal and protect the wood for longer life.
- Watch top tip videos at www.wickes.com for DIY skills, tips and advice.
Staying safe
- For safety, we recommend wearing protective goggles and heavy-duty gloves when using a chop saw or drill.
- Always check the cables and blades of the chop saw before it is plugged in to ensure they are in good condition. If any of the elements need to be replaced, make sure this is done before construction begins.
- Ensure your construction area is well lit and ventilated.
- The cladding panels from the bar will be heavy once constructed, so we recommend having another person on hand to help with the heavy lifting.
- Always check the manufactures label for recommendations before applying any stains, paints or treatments.
Aftercare
- Allow the timber bar to acclimatise to the outdoors for two weeks before treatments are applied, so it can adjust to any moisture and temperature changes.
- Ensure the timber bar is fully dry before any treatments including paint, oil, varnish and wood stains are applied.
- We recommend a brush and wash down followed by a coat of wood preservative to the entire bar once a year.
Before you begin the build, select the area of your garden where the bar will be constructed We recommend the bar is built on a solid base of concrete slabs, patio stone or decking.
Ensure your workbench and chop saw are close to the area of construction for ease.
For more helpful information please to the experts at Johnsons Timber on 0121 706 0404 or email us at sales@johnsonstimber.co.uk