How to Build a Play Structure Out of Scrap Wood

A fort can be made from old wood fencing.

Play structures can be built from many types of material, including wood. Scrap wood is available from many sources, such as old wooden fences. One type of play structure that you can build is a fort. The size of the fort will depend on the amount of scrap wood that is available to you. However, you need the proper tools and hardware to successfully build the play structure.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Jigsaw
• Circular saw
• Power drill
• Pencil
• Straightedge
• 2-by-4 board
• Screws
• Hinges
• L-Bracket

Instructions

1. Measure a section of the wood fence to a length of 5 feet using the tape measure. Cut the braces for the fence at this section with a jigsaw. Repeat this step to cut three additional sections of fence.

2. Cut the braces of the fence at a 45-degree angle with the circular saw. This allows the sections of fence to fit at right angles.

3. Draw a square on the front of one section of fence that measures 24-by-24 inches. Drill a hole at each corner of the square with the power drill.

4. Flip the fence over and draw a line between each hole using a pencil and a straightedge. Measure the distance between the two braces on the back of the fence. Measure and cut a 2-by-4 board that matches this length.

5. Place the 2-by-4 board in between the braces so that it is on the outside edge of the outline. Secure the 2-by-4 board to the fence by driving screws from the front.

6. Cut two additional 2-by-4 boards to measure 24 inches. Place these along the top and bottom of the outline. Secure them to the fence with screws. Measure the distance in between the two 2-by-4 boards and cut a fourth 2-by-4 board to this length.

7. Place a 2-by-4 board on the edge of the outline against the first 2-by-4 board. Secure the board to the fence with screws. Attach two hinges to the two 2-by-4 boards that are side by side.

8. Turn the fence over and cut between the corner holes at the top and bottom edge with the jigsaw. You now have a working door for the fort.

9. Set the pieces of fence upright and align the fence braces. Attach an L-bracket to the braces with screws to secure the walls of the fort.

Tips & Warnings

• Attach a small block of wood on the backside of the fence with a screw to lock the door.

• Cut a 24-inch square piece plywood in half and secure each side to the fence braces to make a seat.

References

• This Old House: How to Build a Fort

Resources

• Summerville-NovaScotia: Pallet Shed