Post by chuck26287 on May 9, 2016 0:35:18 GMT -5
My wife wanted some raised wicking garden beds. After we watched a few YouTube videos on the project basics, I decided how I wanted to make the box frames. Of course, I found a way to use the AR8 to make it all go not only easier, but to produce precise and repeatable assembly. The sides, ends and top shelf frame are all regular 5/4" x 6" pressure treated deck boards. 8 boards all one long length for the sides, and 8 boards all the same short length for the ends. The key was using the CNC to make the 4x4 corner posts. I cut a 3/4" deep by 1 1/2" wide channel on two sides on each post. I then position and drilled 2" deep 1/4" pilot holes, one side slightly offset from the other. The 1" boards were positioned against the inside of the channel, leaving 1/2" of open channel facing the outside of the box. The pilot holes beautifully lined up the 1/4" x 6" timber lag screws to enter and secure the board ends squarely to the corner posts. You can go with the wood planking sides, or dress it up by trimming some common 1/2" corrugated galvanizes steel roofing sheets to fit down in the 1/2" of open channel on the outside of boards.
By CNCing the corner posts, assembly is so simple and precise it almost feels like cheating. The hardest part is getting four square 45 degree miters on the capping frame top shelf. Of course, we still have to install the liner, and the wicking water reservoir, but the boxes are a snap once boards are cut to length.
By CNCing the corner posts, assembly is so simple and precise it almost feels like cheating. The hardest part is getting four square 45 degree miters on the capping frame top shelf. Of course, we still have to install the liner, and the wicking water reservoir, but the boxes are a snap once boards are cut to length.
