Easy To Make Bird House Plans

Easy-to-Make Birdhouse Plans

Attracting birds to your yard can be a rewarding experience, bringing a symphony of chirps and a splash of vibrant color to your outdoor space. Building a birdhouse is a fun and fulfilling project that allows you to contribute to local bird populations while adding a charming accent to your garden. The process is simpler than you might think, and with these easy-to-follow plans, even novice builders can create a welcoming home for feathered friends.

Choosing the Right Design

The first step is to decide on the type of birdhouse you wish to build. Various styles cater to different bird species, with varying dimensions and entrance hole sizes. Consider the birds common to your area and their nesting preferences. For instance, smaller birds like chickadees and wrens prefer smaller houses, while larger birds like bluebirds require bigger accommodations. Researching the typical bird species in your region will help you choose the appropriate design.

The most common types of birdhouses include:

Bluebird house: These typically feature a 1 ½-inch entrance hole and a floor space of 5 x 5 inches.
Chickadee/Nuthatch house: These smaller houses have a 1 ¼-inch entrance hole and a floor space of 4 x 4 inches.
Downy/Hairy Woodpecker house: These houses are designed for cavity-nesting woodpeckers and have a 1 ½-inch entrance hole and a floor space of 4 x 4 inches.
Wren house: Wren houses have a 1 ¼-inch entrance hole and a floor space of 4 x 6 inches.

You can find numerous plans online and in books, providing detailed instructions and diagrams.

Materials and Tools

The materials you'll need are relatively simple and readily available at most hardware stores or home improvement centers:

Wood: Choose a weather-resistant wood like cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine. Avoid using plywood as it can deteriorate quickly.
Screws: Use galvanized or stainless steel screws for durability.
Nails: Opt for galvanized or stainless steel nails to prevent rust.
Paint or stain: While optional, painting or staining the birdhouse can help protect the wood and add a decorative touch. Choose non-toxic paints and stains, as birds can be sensitive to harsh chemicals.
Roofing material: A simple piece of asphalt shingle or metal sheeting can protect the house from rain.
Entrance hole drill bit: This specialized bit ensures a smooth, rounded hole for the entrance.

In terms of tools, you'll likely need:

Saw: A handsaw or circular saw for cutting the wood.
Drill: For creating the entrance hole and securing the pieces together.
Screwdriver or drill driver: To drive the screws.
Hammer: For hammering the nails.
Measuring tape: For accurate measurements.
Level: To ensure the house is built straight.

Construction Steps

Once you've chosen a design and gathered your materials, you're ready to start building your birdhouse. The following steps provide a general guide, but be sure to refer to your chosen plan for specific measurements and instructions:

Cut the wood: Using your saw and measuring tape, cut the wood into the specified lengths for the base, sides, roof, back, and front of the birdhouse.
Assemble the base: Connect the base pieces, using screws or nails to secure them firmly.
Attach the sides: Using screws or nails, attach the sides to the base, aligning them carefully.
Create the entrance hole: Use the entrance hole drill bit to create a smooth, rounded opening in the front of the house. Ensure the hole is positioned according to your chosen plan.
Attach the back and front: Secure the back and front panels to the assembled sides and base.
Install the roof: Attach the roof pieces to the back and front panels, creating an overhang for protection from rain. Use screws or nails to secure the roof.
Add a drainage hole: Drill a small hole in the bottom of the house to allow for drainage.
Paint or stain: If desired, paint or stain the birdhouse, being sure to use non-toxic products.
Let the birdhouse dry: Allow the paint or stain to dry completely before hanging the house.
Install the birdhouse: Position the birdhouse in a location at least 5 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds. Secure the house to a tree, a post, or a building.