Benefits of Building a Garden PlatformAdding a garden platform to your outdoor space offers multiple advantages. It creates a level surface for seating, dining, or potting plants, especially on uneven or sloped ground. Platforms can define a specific area, making your garden more organized and visually appealing. Additionally, raised platforms improve drainage, reduce soil compaction, and can protect delicate plants from foot traffic.
Platforms also extend the usability of your garden, providing a comfortable, stable area for relaxing or entertaining. For hobbyists, a platform can serve as a sturdy workspace for potting or garden crafts. Custom-built platforms allow you to tailor size, shape, and height to your specific garden needs.
Materials Selection and Tools Needed### Choosing the Right MaterialsWhen building a garden platform, durability and weather resistance are key. Common materials include:
- Pressure-treated lumber: Affordable and resistant to rot and insects, ideal for structural framing.- Cedar or redwood: Naturally rot-resistant with an attractive finish, though more expensive.- Composite decking: Made from recycled wood fibers and plastic, requires less maintenance and resists fading and warping.- Concrete blocks or pavers: Can be used as a foundation or base supports for the platform.For the platform surface, decking boards (wood or composite) are most common. Avoid untreated softwoods as they degrade quickly outdoors.
Essential Tools- Measuring tape and carpenter’s square- Level (laser or bubble)- Power drill and screwdriver bits- Hand saw or circular saw- Hammer- Shovel and rake (for site prep)- Safety gear: gloves, safety glasses, ear protection- Optional: post hole digger and concrete (if building posts)## Site Preparation and Measuring### Selecting and Preparing Your SiteChoose a location considering sunlight, accessibility, and proximity to garden features. The ground should be reasonably level or able to be leveled.
Clear the area of debris, rocks, and vegetation. Use a shovel and rake to smooth the soil. If installing on a slope, you may need to build a stepped or supported platform to ensure stability.
Measuring and MarkingDecide on platform dimensions suitable for your intended use (e.g., 8×8 feet is a common size). Mark the outline using stakes and string or spray paint. Double-check measurements and ensure corners form right angles using the 3-4-5 triangle method:
- Measure 3 feet along one edge from the corner- Measure 4 feet along the adjacent edge- Measure the diagonal between those points; it should be 5 feetAdjust stakes until the measurement is exact, confirming a square foundation.
Step-by-Step Construction Process### 1. Set the FoundationDepending on soil conditions and platform size, choose one of these foundation options:
- Concrete piers or footings: Dig holes at corner and midpoint locations, pour concrete, and set post anchors.- Concrete blocks or deck blocks: Place on leveled ground to support beams.- Gravel pad: Excavate soil 4-6 inches deep, fill with compacted gravel for drainage and a stable base.### 2. Install Support BeamsCut pressure-treated lumber to form the frame. Typically, use 2×6 or 2×8 boards for beams. Lay beams on your foundation blocks or posts, ensuring they are level and square.
Secure beams using galvanized screws or brackets. Incorporate joists spaced 16 to 24 inches apart, perpendicular to beams, for decking support.
3. Attach Decking BoardsLay decking boards perpendicular to joists, leaving a small gap (about 1/8 inch) for water drainage. Use stainless steel or coated deck screws to fasten boards securely.
Cut boards flush with the frame edges to maintain a clean look. Sand any rough edges to avoid splinters.
4. Finishing TouchesTreat wood surfaces with outdoor sealant or stain to extend lifespan. Consider adding railings, built-in seating, or planter boxes for added functionality and aesthetics.
Inspect your platform for stability and levelness before use.
