Instructions for Building an Outdoor Bulletin Board

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Things You'll Need

  • Anodized aluminum bars

  • Aluminum sheet (optional)

  • Screws

  • Drill

  • Shovel

  • Tape measure

  • Epoxy

  • Moisture-resistant backing

  • Cork board

  • Saw

  • Silicone sealant

  • Hinges

  • Clear polycarbonate sheets

  • Small doorknob

  • Padlock (optional)

Build a durable bulletin board to withstand the weather.

Outdoor bulletin boards make convenient places to advertise events and post notices for community centers, homeowners' associations, schools, nature centers, and other organizations. Construction isn't difficult, but you must use weatherproof materials and a design that can stand up to the elements. Because outdoor bulletin boards are susceptible to vandalism or unauthorized postings, you may want to add some additional security or protective features to preserve the bulletin board's usefulness and maintain its integrity.

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Step 1

Construct the protective shatter-resistant covering for the cork board where messages will be posted. Cut aluminum bars to length to form a rectangular frame around the cork board around both side. Secure aluminum around the cork board on both sides with epoxy.

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Step 2

Cut aluminum bars to form a frame that fits snugly inside the first frame. This will become a cabinet-style door that opens for access to the cork board. Measure and cut polycarbonate sheet to fit over the cork board on one or both sides of the board. Attach moisture-resistant backing to polycarbonate sheet, and attach a polycarbonate sheet to the inside aluminum frame from the back. Seal with water-resistant sealant.

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Step 3

Attach a completed and sealed door frame to the frame around the corkboard with hinges and screws. Install a small doorknob on the right side of the door frame for easier access.

Step 4

Attach an aluminum sheet to the back of the corkboard, or repeat the steps to make a cabinet-style door for the back side of the cork board, if you want to use both sides to display messages.

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Step 5

Measure the planned height of the bulletin board, and add 1 foot in height to allow for the distance the support structure will be driven into the ground for stability. A height of approximately 6 feet should be appropriate for an easily-accessible outdoor bulletin board. Cut two aluminum bars to length, and screw in place to the sides of the cork board and its frame.

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Step 6

Measure out the full width of the board at the site where you will install the bulletin board, and dig holes for the support posts. Dig at least 1 foot into the ground for stability. Mount the support posts and fill in the holes, packing earth in tightly around each support post.

Step 7

Install a padlock on one or both sides of the bulletin board for additional security if desired.

Tip

Use polycarbonate sheets with UV inhibitors to cut down on the destructive effects of exposure to sunlight. This helps to prevent messages from becoming faded over time. You may also find a clear UV glass-tinting film to apply over the surface of the window.

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