What's on your spring outdoor to-do list? Whether you're eyeing raised garden beds, a birdhouse or a new shed, plywood is a versatile, sturdy and affordable material that’s perfect for spring projects.
As with all projects, it's important to choose the right materials for the setting – yes, there are many different kinds of plywood, explains the the team at Smith Plywoods in Maple Ridge, offering both the expertise to answer questions about your projects, plus all the materials to get them done. As the largest dedicated plywood lumber yard in the Lower Mainland, the family-owned business has been the region's go-to destination for plywood and all the accompanying stains, adhesives, accessories and more since 1952, not to mention the expert advice to go with it.
When working with plywood, use a fine-tooth saw blade to avoid splintering the edges, then sand the edges and surfaces for a smooth finish. Finally, seal or paint the plywood to protect it from moisture, especially for outdoor projects.
Here are some creative ideas to inspire you in the spring sunshine:
1. Garden planter boxes – Build raised garden beds or small planter boxes for your spring flowers, herbs or vegetables. Use weather-resistant plywood or seal it with a waterproof finish. Consider adding legs for easier access.
2. DIY plant stand or vertical garden wall – Build a vertical garden frame with plywood and attach small pots or shelves for plants – a great way to grow succulents, herbs or trailing flowers. You can also mount it on a fence to save space. Or, using plywood for the shelves and legs, you can build a multi-tiered plant stand, staining or painting it to match your decor – perfect for showcasing your beautiful spring blooms!
3. The birds & the bees – A great project to do with the kids or grandkids, you can design and build bird houses or feeders to attract birds to your yard. Use plywood for the walls and roof, and for the feeders, remember to add a perch! Different bird species will have different preferences for their nests, so be sure to choose a location and hole size that matches the birds you're hoping to attract. Decorate with non-toxic paint or leave it natural for a rustic look.
A DIY bee hotel can also support the essential pollinators in your garden. Use plywood for the frame then you can insert a drilled wood block or your can insert removable tubes. Mount in a sunny spot and watch the spring bees move in, and learn how to support them through the season.
4. Sheds and storage solutions – Build a plywood shed or storage box for your backyard. Create storage bins or shelves for organizing gardening tools, seeds or outdoor toys, and add wheels to make it portable.
5. DIY compost bin – Construct a simple compost bin for your garden using plywood. Design it with removable panels for easy access to the compost, and use weatherproof marine plywood plywood or treat it to withstand the elements.
Find more solutions online at smithplywoods.com then bring your questions to Smith Plywoods at 20091 113B Ave. Visit from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Call 604-574-4393 for more details and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for more tips, product announcements and more!
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