DIY Network

Storage Boxes and Finishing Touches Storage Boxes and Finishing Touches From "Grounds for Improvement" episode DGFI-203

Now that the safety issues around Bill and Angie Wilkinson's porch have been solved, it's time to create some simple storage solutions for the pool and toy clutter.

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Figure A

The team uses 2"x4" cedar boards and wood screws to construct the frame of the poolside storage boxes. The top and sides are constructed of 1"x12" cedar, and because the boxes are outside in a wet environment, weather-resistant pressure-treated lumber is used for the box bottoms (figure A). Piano hinges, which are safe for use around children, are used to attach the lids to the boxes. The boxes can stay open during playtime or be kept closed and covered with cushions to provide extra seating.

With the boxes finished and full of play items, new furniture and potted plants complete the look of the new porch. Gone are the cluttered mess and the security concerns of the old porch; in their place is a safe and controlled porch with a sense of order (figure B) (figure C).

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

Where there was clutter and chaos, there is now a place for everything to be stored. Where there was an element of danger from the backyard pool, there is now an element of security and organization, along with a backyard that is perfect for playing, entertaining or just relaxing around the pool (figure D).

RESOURCES :

Black and Decker tools
Website: www.blackanddecker.com
Black & Decker, Inc. (Corporate)
Website: www.bdk.com/main_bd.htm

Porter-Cable Tools
Porter-Cable Corporation
Website: www.deltaportercable.com

Irwin Industrial Tool Company
Website: www.irwin.com

Ames True Temper Tools
Ames-True Temper
Website: www.ames-truetemper.com

American Society of Landscape Architects

Delta Tools
Deltak Power Tools
Website: www.deltamachinery.com

Screen Tight Information

Screen-Tight's™ unique system is easily adapted to most screen porches. The base component attaches to wood framing with 1" wood or sheet rock screws. Make sure to put a screw in each slot. Fastener should be snug, but not so tight that the base strip bends. Put a screw no less than 4" from the end of each base component. The excess screen is cut and removed, allowing cap to snap into base. This completes the installation.

Screen Tight™
Website: www.screentight.com

Cedar lumber and plywood