This project is by April Wilkerson. This DIY project not only maximizes the use of space under your deck but also provides a practical solution for organizing yard equipment.
With clear instructions and the right materials, you can create a watertight storage solution that complements your outdoor space.
Step 1: Planning Your Project
Before starting any woodworking project, it’s essential to plan thoroughly. Consider the dimensions of the area under your deck and the size of the storage drawers you want to create. Measure the space accurately to ensure a perfect fit. Planning ahead will save you time and materials later on.
Step 2: Preparing the Area
Start by cutting an access panel to let in light and provide easier access to the under-deck area. This will also help you see what you are working with as you progress. Ensure you have a clear workspace by removing any debris or obstacles before you begin.
Step 3: Installing Support Studs
Next, you’ll need to add some studs that will float slightly above the ground. This will create a solid framework to attach the drawer rails. Use treated 2x4s and secure them to the existing joists using strong screws, such as Spax lags. This step is crucial for ensuring your storage drawers will be sturdy and reliable.
Step 4: Creating a Watertight Compartment
Your main goal is to ensure that the storage compartment is watertight, especially if it will house yard tools. For this, utilize a product called Tough Tech’s Deck Drain. This corrugated material is waterproof, lightweight, and durable, making it ideal for outdoor use. It is important to create a slope for drainage, which can be easily achieved using slope brackets that come with the material.
Step 5: Installing the Drainage Panels
To install the drainage panels, start at one end and work your way to the other. This prevents any folds or wrinkles from forming in the material. Secure the panels by screwing them into the slope brackets, ensuring that you maintain a consistent slope throughout the installation.
Step 6: Sealing the Overlaps
As you install each panel, apply a generous amount of caulking to the overlapping corrugations. This step is vital to ensure that water does not seep through any gaps. Use a high-quality sealant like DAP’s Dynaflex Ultra for the best results.
Step 7: Building the Drawers
Now it’s time to build the drawers themselves. For this project, Unistrut is a great choice due to its strength and durability. It may be a bit pricier, but for a 10-foot drawer, it’s worth the investment. If you want to save money, consider reducing the length of the drawers or using treated 2x4s as an alternative.
Step 8: Attaching the Drawer Mechanism
Attach a trolley to the end of the Unistrut, which will allow the drawers to slide smoothly. Make sure everything is leveled and secured properly. This is important to ensure that your drawers function correctly and can support the weight of your tools.
Step 9: Test Fitting the Drawers
Once the drawer frames are built, it’s time to test fit them in place. Have someone assist you in holding the drawers while you secure them to the framing. This step ensures that everything fits snugly and operates smoothly.
Step 10: Final Adjustments and Finishing Touches
After the drawers are in place, reinstall any boards that were cut out during the initial phase. This will help blend the drawers into the deck seamlessly. Take a moment to check that everything operates smoothly and make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
Building storage drawers under your deck is a fantastic way to utilize space that often goes to waste. By following these steps, you can create a functional and attractive storage solution that will keep your yard tools organized and protected from the elements. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process of creating something useful for your home!