DIY Network

Outdoor Workshop From "Wasted Spaces" episode DWSP-111

Starting from the ground, the Wasted Spaces team leveled the gravel and built a cedar grid system to hold removable cedar panels. Two window storage boxes were built to take advantage of already framed window openings in the stone wall. Both were constructed from salvaged lumber that Tim had on site. To give Tim a place to get projects done, salvaged lumber was used to build a workbench.

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	This outdoor workshop is sure to keep the Gibson's organized.
	There are no more Wasted Spaces in this area!

Breaking Down the Project

• A gravel floored area that is about 8'x20' on the back of a stone garage. Covered by a sloped metal roof, filled with piles of old tools, furniture and some junk too!
  
  
• Converting any covered outdoor space into a workshop is easy, all you need is level ground, a workbench and some storage. Design with function in mind. Think about how you want to use the space and build everything to suit. Try to take advantage of small areas with shelves and storage options. If you can, use salvaged lumber to add a design feature and to save money.

Materials:

gravel
cedar 2x4s
pressure treated ply
exterior screws
cedar 2x6s
collated screws
birch plywood
salvaged 1x material
hinges
latch
rough sawn pine
paint
tape measure
hammer
4' level
circular saw
gloves
utility knife
framing square
table saw
nail gun
wood glue
chop saw
drill
collated driver
masonry bit
router

Every workspace requires a level ground. Gravel is an ideal material because you can compact it for a firm foundation, and it still drains.

Leveling

1. Use a rake or heavier equipment, like a compact utility loader, to spread the gravel level.

2. Rake down high spots, fill in low ones.

3. A level base will result in a level deck.

Tips:

• If you only have a four foot level but need to check the level of a larger area, turn an 8' piece of lumber on its edge and place the level on top of it. This is a quick way to lengthen your level.

• You can rent a compact utility loader by the day and they typically run about $250 per day. This isn't including the attachment options.

A floating deck is not secured to anything. It sits on level ground and gravity holds it in place. The panels are 4'x4' but they can be smaller or larger to fit your needs.

Deck Grid

1. On the table saw, cut the cedar 2x4s in half.

2. Cut the pressure treated plywood into 4" strips.

3. Cut the material to your desired length on the chop saw. For this grid, the outer pieces were left at 8' and the center dividers were 4'.

4. Using 2" deck screws, screw through the plywood and into the cedar to secure each grid section. Basically the two components join to form an "L." The pressure treated plywood is the foot of the "L" and the cedar is the back of the "L."

5. Lay out the grid and attach it at the corners and other joints. Sit the pressure treated section on the level ground.

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