Making pedestal stands

[Chad D]

Here is what 'Tonya1219' and I have so far. Do you recommend crossbraces within the 2x6 on the center stand and 2x4's on the smaller stands for more stability? Anyone use any brackets going from under the top 2x2 deck onto the posts?

Thanks!

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

My current stands are pretty close to your design; 4x4 posts, 2x4 "joists", and 2x2s comprise the top. I don't use any support braces for stands that hold one tree. After 8 years untreated, they're still going strong, but I've had to replace screws here and there.

I am using 6x6 posts for the new garden, just for aesthetics. I have 3 more posts and 2 benches left to place. I'm also planning to place a post somewhere with a solid background so I'll have a permanent photographing spot. I will miss the fence backdrop, but I think the trees will be better with a little more air circulation.

 

[JudyB]

Looking good Chad, and Brian, you look like you're almost move in ready! Looking great.

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

Looking good Chad, and Brian, you look like you're almost move in ready! Looking great.

Getting close! July 9 is the big day, and hopefully the kitchen won't be too far behind

 

[JudyB]

contractors favorite saying - only another week and another $1k...

 

[whfarro]

contractors favorite saying - only another week and another $1k...

So true!

 

[Eric Group]

I made stands of a very similar design- honestly copied from pics I saw of Brian's once- and they need no extra bracing, hold multiple trees- some pretty large. I made one much larger than yours, and even out at the corners of the larger one, without extra support it is quite solid! Mine are cemented into the ground at the base... Also, it looks like you just used two nails to hold the 2x4s on? If so- I'd recommend screws and using at least three on each side. Other than that, yeah you should be fine with that design!

 

[Chad D]

Thanks! Those are deck screws to hold the cross joists in place for now. I plan to also put a bolt through both joists and the post and counter sink the hex head and apply wood putty to cover.

I might cut the posts down a bit on the two side stands for a better height differential from the middle one. I just can't go too low or my bullmastiff will eat all the organic fertilizer. The only organic fertilizer that she does not go nuts for (but will still eat if bored) is biogold. Of course....which makes me buy the most expensive one. She goes nuts for green dream and anything Plant or Holly Tone based.


Also, Happy Father's Day Everyone!!! My kids get to help me finish the pedestal stands today. Lucy them.

 

[Chad D]

My current stands are pretty close to your design; 4x4 posts, 2x4 "joists", and 2x2s comprise the top. I don't use any support braces for stands that hold one tree. After 8 years untreated, they're still going strong, but I've had to replace screws here and there.

I am using 6x6 posts for the new garden, just for aesthetics. I have 3 more posts and 2 benches left to place. I'm also planning to place a post somewhere with a solid background so I'll have a permanent photographing spot. I will miss the fence backdrop, but I think the trees will be better with a little more air circulation.

That looks awesome! Did you make your kids climb on the roof for the aerial picture?

 

[Chad D]

I went ahead and added a few supports to use the center stand for my largest heaviest tree. Probably overkill

 

[CamdenJim]

Here is what 'Tonya1219' and I have so far. Do you recommend crossbraces within the 2x6 on the center stand and 2x4's on the smaller stands for more stability? Anyone use any brackets going from under the top 2x2 deck onto the posts?

Chad, you don't need any additional support if you will put only one pot, and that one centered, on each stand. If you put multiple smaller pots, just keep the weight balanced on your top pieces and your screws tight.

I've used a different final design for the tops of a half-dozen stands. None have additional bracing, and all support pots of various sizes and weights without any trouble, even in our local hot and humid climate.

I am using 6x6 posts for the new garden, just for aesthetics. I have 3 more posts and 2 benches left to place. I'm also planning to place a post somewhere with a solid background so I'll have a permanent photographing spot. I will miss the fence backdrop, but I think the trees will be better with a little more air circulation.

What a beautiful framework/background for your trees, Brian!

Jim

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

That looks awesome! Did you make your kids climb on the roof for the aerial picture?

No, that's from the deck above. Finished up today...just one bench to move with the trees.

 

[Chad D]

How deep do you burry the posts? Do you concrete them in? Your backyard looks awesome!

I've got one finished.

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

Looking good. I think I want to stain mine, or at least water seal. I bury them 8-16" in the ground, depending on when I hit rock...and do concrete them in.

 

[fore]

Wow, really beautiful new yard Brian! I didn't know you guys were building a new house. Congrats on both fronts!! I'd be so pumped! Lol

 

[Chad D]

Anyone have any ideas on a type of strap that won't look too trashy?

 

[Brian Van Fleet]

Aluminum wire.

 

[GrimLore]

Anyone have any ideas on a type of strap that won't look too trashy?

Someone posted this on another thread and I thought it would be a good replacement for wire or bungee cords - http://www.amazon.com/65ft-Clear-Plastic-Twist-Cutter/dp/B006L2BYWE.

Grimmy

 

[PiñonJ]

Here's my recent addition. It's in a post holder with a 24 inch spike.

 

[0soyoung]

Anyone have any ideas on a type of strap that won't look too trashy?

How about white or black plastic bailing twine? Two loops over the pot on opposite sides of the tree tied with a nice bow-knot.
Easy peasy, very Japanesey