How to Make a 2x4 Birdhouse
Building a birdhouse will provide a sense of achievement and a safe place for birds to live. The supplies don't cost much, and a birdhouse will provide endless hours of bird-watching joy once a family takes up residence.
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Things You'll Need
- 5 2-by-4 foot plywood boards
- Power saw
- Hammer or nail gun
- Nails
- Nontoxic paint, brush and tray
- Hook
- Sandpaper
- Hinges
Instructions
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1
Choose wood that is thick enough to build a sturdy birdhouse. Pick a style; popular shapes include triangular-shaped or square birdhouses.
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2
Cut out a 2-by-4 foot piece of plywood for the base. Next, cut two 2-by-4 feet pieces for the sides. Cut a circle or square hole at least 3 inches in the front piece of wood to allow the birds to enter and exit. Then cut a 2-by-4 feet piece for the roof.
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3
Sand any rough spots on the wood. Nail the sides of the bird house to the floor. Attach the roof to the house. To create a sloped roof, attach two pieces of wood on one end. Nail together the wood pieces at the top. Add hinges to one side of the roof to open the top for easier cleaning. Sandpaper lightly, and wipe clean.
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4
Apply the first coat of paint. Allow it to dry overnight. Add a second coat, and any special designs, such as windows, flowers or a welcome sign.
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5
Attach a screw-in hook to the top of the birdhouse. Make sure the hook is secure, then add a wire hang the birdhouse from a tree branch or a wrought iron birdhouse stake.
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Tips & Warnings
Conduct Internet research to find the types of house different birds prefer. Hang the birdhouse at least a month before birds are expected to arrive to allow the smell of paint to dissipate.
Make sure the nails do not protrude through the wood. This will injure the birds.
