How to build a raised garden bed with seating?

[nvelaga]

Hello experts, 

I am total beginner and planning to step up my DIY journey.  

I am planning to setup a raised garden bed with seating options in couple of places. Along with it i am planning to install part of my back yard with decking ( deck with will be partly on concrete slab ). I have attached my plan and the sample raised bed i am considering. 

I am looking for suggestions on how should i plan the project , tools needed and procure materials ? I am finding lot of information over internet and its confusing. 

Thanks in advance

 

[MitchellMc]

That sounds like it would work, @nvelaga.

Mitchell

[nvelaga]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

[nvelaga]

Hey @MitchellMc , 

I know this is a basic question, however just want your gudiance. 

What's the best approach out of these two

1. fix the posts with concrete at required positions and then fix sleepers 

2. Dig the holes and then fix sleepers to the posts, finalise the position and then concrete them ? 

To the beginer like me , option 1 seems easy. what are your thoughts ?

Additionally, How do i make sure all the posts are of equal height and are in straight line ?

[MitchellMc]

Hi @nvelaga,

You're on the right track with option 1 being the best approach. By fixing the posts first with concrete, you establish a solid base and get the posts in their correct positions and at the desired height. This way, you have a fixed reference to work from when attaching the sleepers, ensuring everything stays aligned and level.

To ensure all the posts are the same height and in a straight line, you can use a string line, line level and a spirit level. First, stretch a string between two posts at either end of the bed. This will give you a reference for ensuring the posts are in line. Make sure the string is taut and level. Then, use this as a reference to ensure all the posts are the same height relative to the string line. You can measure the distance from the top of each post to the string to ensure they match. Finally, use a spirit level to check that the posts are straight vertically and horizontally. Once you’ve got the posts aligned, at the right height and braced in position, you can then go ahead and add your concrete. 

This method gives you a lot of control, and it’s much easier to make adjustments at this stage than after the sleepers are in place. 

Here's a helpful guide: How to choose and use a level.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[nvelaga]

Thanks @MitchellMc for your advice, yeah i will give it a try. 

Another question, the sleepers i am using is 50mm and post is 100mm *100 mm. I am using 100mm galvanised batten screw to fix these two. 

Do you think i need to go for 125mm ? 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @nvelaga,

Yes, I would go to 125mm screws. The extra length will have more holding power.

Mitchell

[nvelaga]

Hey @MitchellMc @JacobZ 

Hope you are well ! 

I am trying to fix sleepers to the post inorder to finsih this project. However i  am facing hardtime fixing sleeper beside fence to the post. Is there any techniques that you could suggest ? 

width of post 100mm 

width of sleeper 50mm

Here are couple of things i am thinking 

1. I am thinking to fix from inside with 150mm galvanised screw  i.e. on post into sleeper 

2. Use angular brackets and fix them ( not sure which one to use  though ) I am thinking of using https://www.bunnings.com.au/carinya-50-x-50mm-galvanised-angle-bracket-4-pack_p0137857 

Appreciate any help on this one , thanks in advance.

[nvelaga]

In addition to above the other challange i will face is fixing the intersection where two sleepers join to the post. I am running out of ideas for this one as well. Unable to identify the strongest option.

 

[EricL]

Hello @nvelaga 

For good holding power, I suggest going with your idea but using a longer nut and bolt set such as the ZENITH M12 x 170mm Hot Dip Galvanised Cup Head Bolts & Nuts. Make sure to use washers at the end to prevent the nut from eating into the timber. The same can be applied to the other corner of your garden bed. But just to be sure can you please show us the final position of the sleepers so that we can give you proper advice in regards to the bolts to be used.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric