How to build a window cover for privacy and protection from the elements?

[BoeingFan]

Howdy all,

I'd like to build a solid wood panel window cover (just think of a rectangular piece of wood e.g. 1000h * 750w) that can:

• be flat against the window to protect from hail when need be, and/or
• can angle out from the bottom like an awning (hinge?), and/or
• can move squarely out from the window allowing for air but blocking sun/neighbours, and/or
• be able to open on either side in order to catch the breeze and drive it into the house from the left or the right

I have one little old window in the kitchen which only opens on one side, which was the catalyst for this post.

Cheers,
Jason

[MitchellMc]

Hi @BoeingFan,

You typically only find H4 treatment applied to items that go in the ground, like sleepers and posts.

For above-ground use, H3 treatment is an appropriate level. The H3 framing timber can be painted, but you should allow it to weather for several weeks before doing so. An alternative, which you can paint straight away, is the 66 x 30mm 5.4m F7 H3 Treated Pine Primed LOSP.

Mitchell

[BoeingFan]

Hi @MitchellMc ,

Brilliant! Thank you so much, that's great. Once I've paid for it will the guys at Bunnings be happy to cut it into lengths for me? Also, should I then use an undercoat such as Dulux 1Step Prep Primer, Sealer & Undercoat before applying the topcoat on the cut/newly exposed ends?

Thanks. I promise I'm running out of questions.

[MitchellMc]

I can't see any issue with having the team in-store cut the timber for you @BoeingFan. I'd recommend having a chat with them first, just to be sure.

Undercoating the cut ends of the timber would be a good decision before assembly. Once you've assembled the frame, I suggest you prime it all and then once dry paint. The 1Step is a better-quality primer than the one the timber comes with, and it will ensure your paint binds adequately.

Mitchell