This step by step diy woodworking project is about balance beam plans. This simple outdoor game is ideal if you want to keep your kids entertained and to add character to your yard with little money. You can easily adjust the size, shape and the design of the project to suit your needs. Make sure you take a look over the rest of plans to see alternatives and more projects for your garden.
Work with attention and don’t forget that a good planning will save you from many issues and it will keep the costs withing the total budget. Invest in high quality materials, such as pine, redwood or cedar. Drill pocket holes before inserting the galvanized screws, to prevent the wood from splitting. Add waterproof glue to the joints, in order to enhance the rigidity of the structure.
Projects made from these plans
Balance Beam Plans
- A – 1 piece of 4×4 lumber – 120″ long BEAM
- B – 3 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 24″ long SUPPORTS
- 1 piece of 4×4 lumber – 10′
- 1 piece of 4×4 lumber – 8′
- 6 pieces of 5″ lag bolts
How to build a balance beam
The first step of the project is to build the base supports for the beam. Cut three pieces of 4×4 lumber at 24″. Use a saw to make 45 degree cuts to both ends of the components and smooth the edges with sandpaper. In addition, you need to make a 1″ deep notch to the middle of the supports, as shown in the diagram.
Make several parallel cuts inside the marked area and remove the excess with a damp cloth. Smooth the recess with sandpaper.
The next step is to attach the supports to the 10′ long beam. Fit the supports to the beams, make sure the corners are square and drill two pilot holes on diagonal. Countersink the holes and insert 5″ lag bolts to lock the components together tightly.
It is essential to place the supports equally spaced, for a symmetrical appearance. Three supports are more then enough to make sure the beam won’t bow.
Smooth the edges of the balance beam with sandpaper, to prevent injuries. In addition, choose a level surface for the project.
Fill the holes with wood putty and let them dry out for a few hours. Smooth the surface with 100-200 grit sandpaper and remove the residues with a damp cloth.
Top Tip: Apply a few coats of paint or stain to the components, to enhance the look of the project.
This woodworking project was about balance beam plans. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.