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There are a million different creative ways to use metal in the garden. Here’s a roundup of quick and (relatively) easy metal projects that will provide the perfect accent for your yard and garden, arranged in level of difficulty, from beginner to more advanced.
But first, take a look at the types of metals that work well for DIY projects.
Metals for DIY Projects
Steel is the basic, hardworking metal of any DIY workshop. Steel is easy to weld and it’s tough and long-lasting, which makes it ideal for structures that will be exposed to the weather for years.
One metal that works well for DIY garden projects is galvanized steel. This sturdy material is protected from corrosion by the electro galvanization process. It is easy to drill, form, and weld, and provides a lifespan of up to 20 years or more. Galvanized steel makes a good choice for screens, planters or rasied beds.
Metal sheet that is formed into corrugated patterns makes a fantastic material for all sorts of garden DIY projects. Corrugated sheet is lightweight, strong, and it comes in a variety of materials and finishes, including a corrosion-resistant galvanized finish.
Copper is a fantastic material for outdoor fixtures of all kinds. Its natural patina ages from bright orange to a deep green, but it can be enhanced further with a chemical patina. Once that patina has developed, the metal is sealed off from further oxidation and will last for years to come. Or, the distinct copper color can be preserved with a sealant, presenting a striking contrast to your garden’s green foliage.
DIY Outdoor Decor
This category of metal DIY home projects is probably the easiest for beginners. Projects can range from unique garden art to planters to decorative trellises and even benches. Or, create a metal sign proudly proclaiming your family name or street number.
Use copper tubing or steel bar to build a sturdy trellis, or weld copper sheet or galvanized steel plate to create a set of planters.
Weld together an assortment of metal scrap, old tools, and other odds and ends to create fantastical garden art, such as flying pigs, unicorns, or gigantic flowers & insects. Design a bird feeder, bee bath or butterfly watering station. Build a water garden container, line it with plastic, and add a pump to create a bubbling fountain.
Decorative Screens
Looking for some back-yard privacy or want to hide a cement block wall? Try adding a painted, galvanized or patinaed corrugated sheet as a screen or siding. You could even use a perforated aluminum corrugated sheet to allow airflow. The corrugations protect the sheet from dents, and give it added stiffness, yet it can be easily cut with tin snips or an angle grinder.
Corrugated Metal Planters
DIY corrugated metal raised beds or garden planters are all the rage for today’s homesteaders and gardeners. They are practical and can be adapted to many different uses.
Choose the height, from 12-in. for a veggie garden up to 2-1/2 ft. for a decorative planter. Then lay out the other dimensions, leaving the bottom open. Build the frame with redwood, to take advantage of its natural insect and rot resistance. Be sure to use weather resistant wood screws to attach the corrugated siding to the frame.
DIY Metal Roof
Install an attractive corrugated metal or copper sheet roof on a potting shed, garden gazebo, or grilling shed. Though this project is definitely not for beginners, it adds a lot of character – and value – to any landscape.
This project may not be as difficult as it seems, depending on the roof height, square footage and design. Choose a shiny, corrosion-resistant Galvalume finish, a pre-painted steel, or use copper sheet or weathering steel for a traditional or rustic look.
Whatever DIY metal project you choose, you can count on Industrial Metal Supply for all your metal and metalworking needs. Contact us today or visit one of our six convenient Southland locations.
