Build a Simple Garden Bridge with Pine Logs
Creating a rustic yet stylish garden bridge using pine logs is easy and will add so much character to your your yard.
For the
average handyman, building bridges seems to be a
daunting task. Yet, when using pine logs, half
the work is already done. Pine logs do not need
reinforcement across small spans, so all you
will need is enough logs to cover the distance
of the bridge.
A number of simple tools are all that are needed
for this project. You will need a chain saw, a
tape measure, carriage bolts, and a heavy duty
drill with a bit to drive the carriage bolts
into the wood.
First, you will need to determine how long and
how wide of a bridge you wish to build. This
will tell you how many feet of logs you will
need. Eight foot logs are the easiest to work
with.
A four foot span makes the work simple and
allows you to use less logs. You will need two
logs cut to the length you wish the main portion
of the bridge to be. Four logs will need to be
cut to the height off the surface plus two feet
to bury in the ground. If building over water,
these should be at least two feet above the
water surface. On each end of the bridge, you
will need two ramp logs, which will serve to
gradually incline to the main body of the
bridge.
Begin by digging holes for each of the four
upright supports. The holes should be at least
24 inches deep. Line the bottom of the holes
with rocks and/or gravel. Keep the support log
straight and level as you backfill the hole.
Lay each of the rails logs over the support
logs, centering the ends over the supports. Use
the drill and carriage bolts to attach the logs
together. Next, lay out the ramp rails, again
centering the end to butt against the bridge
rails on the support log. Attach rails with
carriage bolts.
Now that the supports are complete, lay each of
your span logs side by side, starting from the
ground level end of the ramp support. Each log
will require a carriage bolt on each end. Once
you’ve completed adding all logs from end to
end, your next task will be to add a hand rail
if desired. To do this, repeat the procedure for
constructing the main part of the bridge, adding
a post in the center for stability.
This is a great weekend project that will add
beauty and style to your garden, yard or small
pond. It will be strong and study and should
give you many years of enjoyment.
Shopping
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