DIY Network

Trellis with Seating Area From "Home Transformations" episode DHTR-108

	Before: An ordinary all-American backyard.
	After the transformation: a stunningly stylish entertaining area.
	A closer look at the trellis and bench seat.

Host Michael Ray Wisely and homeowners Brett and Todd Jones complete the transformation of an ordinary backyard into a home entertainment retreat. In this episode, the trio creates a trellis with a seating area and adds finishing touches.

Materials:

Level
Line Level
Chalk line
Posthole digger
Shovel
(3) 4 x 4 x 10 redwood
Pre mix concrete
Water
Trowel
Miter saw
Table saw
1 x 6 x 8 Redwood
2 x 4 x 8 Redwood
2 x 2 x 8 Redwood
Hand drill
Wood screws
Sledge hammer (3 lb.)
Stake material
Wheel barrel (for mixing cement)
Lag Bolts (galvanized)
Nuts (galvanized)
2 x 6 Trex deck board
Composite deck screws
Post and pipe level (optional)
Carpenter square
Speed square
Miter saw
Table saw
Circular saw
Hand drill
Nail gun
Line Level
Laser level (optional)
Finish nails (1-1/2")
Ladder (at least 8’)
Carriage bolts with washers (galvanized)

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Trellis Construction

Overview: The trellis constructed is 12' long and supported by three 4 x 4 posts measuring 8' high, with cross-pieces. The structure will match the existing fence in the homeowners back yard.

1. To start, post-holes are dug into the ground with a gas powered two-man auger (figure A).

2. Once the holes are made, clear the dirt around with a shovel and use a post-hole digger to remove any other loose dirt that has fallen into the hole. To allow for drainage in each hole, add three inches of gravel (figure B).

3. Next, mix up some concrete. Use one bag for every 18" of depth. Each hole requires about two 80-pound bags to secure the post. Once the post is set in the hole, confirm it’s straight with a post and pipe level (figure C) and secure in place with a 2x4 post that is attached to the ground with a stake.

4. Pack more cement into the hole with a stick. The goal is to remove any air-pockets.

5. Complete the cross bracing by attaching another 2 x 4 post to the ground with a stake (figure D). This will ensure that the primary post dries straight.

6. Use a trowel to shape the cement at the base of the post into a cone-like shape (figure E). The conical shape will allow water to run off away from the wood post.

7. To help align the other two posts, stretch a piece of string between two stakes.

8. Install the remaining two posts the exact same way as the first.

	Figure F
	Figure G
	Figure H
	Figure I
	Figure J

Bench Seat Construction

The 12- foot bench seat is made up of two boxes. Each box is built by joining two 2 x 2 frames together.

1. The frame of the bench seat is made of 2 x 2 and 4 x 4 pieces of redwood. Once the stock is cut to size, assemble the frames using galvanized screws.

2. Anchor the bottom of the box frames to the posts with lag bolts (figure F).

3. To keep the box frame level, it’s a good idea to clamp in a temporary frame while attaching the boxes.

4. Set the larger box frame onto the other frame and anchor it to the posts. Once the proper height is measured, drill holes and secure with carriage bolts (figure G).

5. For a clean look, cut 1 x 6 redwood stock into decorative slats and secure to the top and back of the frame with screws.

6. Build the other box for the trellis the exact same way and attach then together with carriage bolts.

7. Apply redwood to the sides of the bench (figure H) and finish the top with Trex.

8. Use screws as spacers (figure I) between the boards of Trex and secure to the bench seat with galvanized screws.

Trellis Cross Piece Attachment

1. Once the trellis cross pieces are cut to size, mark the center on both the cross-piece stock and posts.

2. Then match the cross pieces to the mark. Tack the cross pieces with finishing nails and secure the pieces together with carriage bolts.

3. Next redwood 1 x 2 slats are secured to the cross pieces with galvanized screws. Spacers help to light up the slats evenly and scarf joints (figure J) help to create the appearance that the slats are one continuous piece of redwood running along the cross pieces.

RESOURCES :

Patio Furnishings and Accessories
Markot Console Table and Dining Chairs, Ashland Barstools, Metal Luminary Lanterns
Pier 1 Imports
Web site: www.pier1.com