Building a rain barrel stand can be an excellent way to elevate your rain barrel for better water pressure and easier access to the spigot. When building the stand, it’s essential to ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the weight of a full rain barrel, which can be quite heavy. Follow these step-by-step instructions to build a solid and durable rain barrel stand.
Materials You Will Need
Before starting, gather all the necessary materials:
– 4×4 inch pressure-treated lumber (for legs)
– 2×4 inch pressure-treated lumber (for frame and bracing)
– Deck screws or galvanized screws (3-inch and 1 1/2-inch)
– Drill with screwdriver bits
– Saw (circular saw, handsaw, or miter saw)
– Measuring tape
– Level
– Gravel or concrete pavers (optional, for beneath the stand)
Step 1: Design Your Stand
Determine the dimensions of your rain barrel to design the stand accordingly. The stand must be slightly larger than the base of the barrel for stability. Plan for a height that allows easy access to the spigot and can use gravity to increase water pressure.
Step 2: Cut the Wood to Size
Based on your design, cut the 4×4 lumber to create four legs for the stand. The height of the legs should match the desired height of your stand. Then, cut the 2×4 lumber to create the frame that will hold the legs together and support the rain barrel.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Start by constructing the top frame where the rain barrel will sit. Lay out the pieces of 2×4 lumber and secure them together with 3-inch screws to create a square or rectangle, depending on your barrel’s dimensions. Ensure the frame is square by measuring diagonally across the frame—both diagonals should be equal.
Step 4: Attach the Legs
Stand the 4×4 legs upright and attach them to the inside corners of the frame using 3-inch screws. Ensure each leg is perpendicular to the frame using a level. For additional stability, you can add diagonal bracing between the legs with additional 2x4s cut to fit.
Step 5: Add Lower Bracing
For added stability, you’ll want to add horizontal bracing near the bottom of the legs. Cut additional 2×4 pieces to connect the legs at the bottom, ensuring the stand will resist lateral movement once the rain barrel is in place.
Step 6: Prepare the Site
Choose a spot for your rain barrel stand that is near a downspout. Clear and level the area as best as possible. For additional support and to prevent the legs from sinking into the ground, you can place gravel or concrete pavers where each leg will go.
Step 7: Place the Stand
With the help of another person, move the stand to the prepared site. Check with a level to ensure it’s sitting flat on the ground or pavers. Adjust the gravel or pavers as necessary to level out the stand.
Step 8: Position the Rain Barrel
Carefully place the rain barrel on top of the stand. It should fit snugly within the frame. Double-check that the barrel is stable before using it, and ensure that the spigot is accessible.
Final Tips
When the rain barrel is full, it can weigh over 400 pounds, depending on its capacity. Make sure every joint and brace in your stand is well secured. Regularly inspect your rain barrel stand for any signs of weakness or damage, especially after heavy rainfalls. If using screw connections, periodically check to ensure that the screws remain tight. It may also be wise to secure the barrel to the stand to prevent tipping in windy conditions.
By following these steps, you can build a reliable and sturdy stand for your rain barrel that should last for many seasons. Not only will it be functional, but with a nice stain or sealant, it can also add a pleasing aesthetic to your garden area.