Reasons to Have a Trash Enclosure

Garbage containers are not the most attractive items. They usually are large and bulky, and they only seem to come in drab colors. Garbage containers also get dirty and worn with use. An enclosure allows you to hide the unsightly items. Trash enclosures also are a must in areas of the country with pesky wildlife. If bears are an issue, the last thing you want to do is leave food waste out that will attract them. While not as dangerous, raccoons, possums and coyotes like to get into garbage containers. Even a loose neighborhood dog can make a mess if determined enough.

Tools and Materials Required to Build a Trash Enclosure

The tools and materials needed to build a trash enclosure for your home will vary by plan. The following are common items on a to-buy list:

• Saw
• Drill
• 2-by-4 lumber
• Corner posts
• Nails and screws
• Construction adhesive
• Heavy-duty hinges and latches
• Handles
• Metal flashing to cover seams
• Stain
• Shovel
• Landscaping fabric
• Gravel or concrete

The scope of the project will increase significantly if you plan to create a concrete base for the trash enclosure. It’s a good idea to do so, though, in areas of the country that see lots of wet weather. Wheeled garbage containers will get stuck in mud or create a mess down your driveway every time you put the trash out after a soaking rain.

Free Plans for Trash Enclosures

Whether you decide to tackle this project yourself or have your professional handyman take it on, it helps to have a plan in mind. Check out these free options:

The Renovation Headquarters website offers free, downloadable plans for trash enclosures and also for combo enclosures if you would like to add firewood in the same storage area.

Canadian Home Workshop offers a detailed project plan for a trash enclosure that covers materials, tools and step-by-step instructions. You can even print the plans to keep with you as you work. You wouldn’t want to get sawdust on your laptop, after all.

The City of Anaheim, Calif., also posts its requirements for trash enclosures online. It helps residents understand what is and is not allowed, but it also serves as a blueprint for anyone want to build an enclosure.

The Garden Path offers this video, which gives you an overview of a more involved trash enclosure projectthat features a concrete slab. Before getting started on the project yourself or hiring help, check with the appropriate department in your city to learn whether there are any rules you must follow. As with all home projects, whether you take the DIY route or hire a professional depends on several factors. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I have the skills necessary to do a quality job?
• Do I have the tools needed, or will I need to purchase them?
• Do I have the time this project will take?

You also should do the math. Ask your professional handyman to provide a quote, then add up the cost of tools and materials you need to purchase. Don’t forget to factor in your time. It has a monetary value, too! Also keep in mind that it will take you much longer to do a job once that a professional does on a regular basis. If you decide to tackle the project yourself, it still doesn’t hurt to ask your professional handyman for advice during his or her next visit.

Hamied The Handyman can maintain your home to save you money. One call really does take care of everything on your to-do list. Make sure to stay on top of all your household repairs, improvements and maintenance needs and request service now online.

Once you know where to place the window boxes decide on what type of wood you would like to use. Keep in mind characteristics that will make these long-lasting and look appealing in your landscape. Many wood planters can also be sealed or treated to prevent fading or graying of the wood, so almost any type of wood can be used to build a planter. A few suggestions may include redwood, cypress or pine.

Next, determine the size of the box your window can hold in length, width and depth. The width of the windows determines the final length of the planter. The depth and height should be large enough to hold pots or an amount of dirt that will retain moisture for a few days.

After determining the full width of the planter, cut the front, back and bottom boards to the appropriate length along with the end caps. Lay the bottom piece of wood (bottom of your window box) onto a flat surface. Place the back of the window box flush against the back edge of the bottom piece and secure with glue and nails. Place one end cap of the window box inside making sure to have a perfect angle. Then glue and nail the pieces together. Repeat the same process with the other end cap. Secure the last piece of wood (front of window box) onto the front with glue and nails. Drill a few holes in the bottom of the planter to allow drainage. Sand away any and all rough edges until the box is perfectly smooth on all sides.

If desired, attach a finished piece of finish molding around the top of the box to give it a more polished look. Stain or paint the box the color desired. Finish off with a protective clear acrylic coating that is resistant to the elements.
Line the planter with landscape cloth to keep the dirt from sifting out. Attach the flower box to the house with screws. Add gravel to the bottom of the window flower box to assist in drainage. Fill the box with planting soil and add flowers.

Hamied The Handyman can maintain your home to save you money. One call really does take care of everything on your to-do list. Make sure to stay on top of all your household repairs, improvements and maintenance needs and request service now online.