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ÿþBuild a Footbridge
Project Level: Intermediate
Do you have a special retreat
that doesn't seem so special
anymore? If so, add a footbridge.
A footbridge enhances the feeling
of getting away and acts as a
portal to a relaxed, carefree
space where you can leave the
world behind. A footbridge is a
one-day project that you can
complete without common tools.
Lowe's is happy to provide this information as a service to you.
Tools Materials
" Square " Three, 16' 2 x 12s rated
for outdoor use
" Circular saw
" Ten, 12' 5/4 x 6 decking
" Drill/driver
boards or composite deck
" Drill bits
boards
" Tape measure
" Two, 8' 2x4s rated for
" Gloves
outdoor use
" Hearing protection
" 2 1/2" galvanized deck
" Goggles
screws
" Dust mask
" Exterior stain or
Paint
These instructions are intended solely for a
decorative bridge which rests entirely on the
ground. To cross an actual gap (ditch, pond,
etc.) consult your local building authorities for
specific instructions and requirements.
Build the Bridge
Use the following steps to construct a
16' x 3' bridge. You may, of course, change any dimensions you
wish. Just remember to scale up or down accordingly. If you
decide to make the bridge wider, don't allow the stringers to be
more than 24" on center (OC).
Lay Out and Cut the Stringers
1. Use 16' 2x12s for the stringers. Square both ends of a
2x12 and cut it exactly 16' in length.
2. Measure up 4" on each end of the 2x12 and make a
mark. Locate the center of the 2x12, measure 1 1/2'
(18") toward the left and right ends, and mark. Draw cut-
lines between the marks as shown below.
3. Use a circular saw to cut the stringer along the cut-line.
Use the first stringer as a pattern to mark and cut the
other stringers.
Marked stringer
Brace the Stringers
1. Cut ten 14 3/4" pieces from your 2x4 stock. Use the
pieces of 2x4 to brace the stringers. Install the center
and intermediate braces staggered, as shown below.
Top view of braced stringers
2. Install the end braces flush with the bottom of the
stringers, the intermediate braces 1" up from the bottom
of the stringers and the center braces flush with the top
of the stringers.
Side view of brace placement
Install the Decking
Good idea: To avoid
splitting the deck boards,
predrill holes for the
1. Cut 5/4x6 decking
screws.
boards to 36" for
decking.
2. Center the decking boards on the stringer frame so
there's about an inch of overhang on each side. Secure
the deck boards with two screws at each stringer. Leave a
1/8" to 1/4" gap between each decking board. It may be
necessary to cut decking boards to fit where the incline
flattens out on the bridge. Stain and seal the bridge.
Side view of footbridge
Railings
For this bridge, we decided not to install railings. In most areas,
structures under two feet high are not required to have railings,
but always check with your local building inspector for
requirements in your area.
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