Are you looking to provide your furry friend with a cozy outdoor retreat? A DIY doghouse is the perfect solution! In this guide, we’ll show you how to create a waterproof oasis for your pet that can withstand any weather conditions. Plus, we’ll introduce you to Flex Seal Products, which will help seal out water and provide extra protection for your pet’s new home.
Tools and Materials
Before we dive into the steps, let’s round up the tools and materials you’ll need:
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Jigsaw
- Compass
- Drill with Phillips head bit and ½” drill bit
- Metal snips
- Orbital sander
- Paint roller and tray
- Painter’s tape
Materials:
- 1, 1x4x12′ cedar board
- 4, 2x4x8″ pine boards
- 4, 2x2x8′ pine boards
- 1, 4’x8′ 1/2″ panel board
- 1, 4’x8′ sheet of galvanized steel
- 1 can of Flex Seal (clear)
- 1 can of Flex Seal Liquid (black)
- 3″ exterior deck screws
- 1-5/8″ exterior deck screws
- Roofing nails
Building the Doghouse
1. Build Doghouse Base
To start, let’s build the base of the doghouse. Using cedar boards is a great choice as it helps prevent decay and resist bacterial and fungal growth. Cut the 2×4 cedar board into pieces and assemble them to form a square base. Top the base with a piece of ½” panel board. Repeat this process to create a rectangular base for the porch.
2. Frame Doghouse Walls
Next, use the pine 2×4 boards to frame the four walls of the doghouse. Cut pieces of paneling to attach to the frame. Make sure the paneling overlaps with the cedar base to prevent moisture from entering. Attach the walls to the cedar base, but leave the front panel for later.
3. Create Passthrough for Doghouse
Use a jigsaw to cut a passthrough through the paneling for the front of the doghouse. Attach the paneling to the wall frame and connect the front using exterior deck screws.
4. Create Porch Overhang
Cut a porch framework using a circular saw to support the roof overhang. Attach the framework to the underside of the floor panel and assemble a rectangular frame over the entryway.
5. Make Doghouse Roof
Now it’s time for the roofing! Trim galvanized steel pieces to fit the roofline and attach them to the wooden frame using roofing nails. Don’t forget to cut a piece of galvanized steel to overlap at the peak of the roofline. This ridge cap will prevent rainwater from entering. Trim a smaller piece of galvanized steel for the porch overhang.
6. Seal Roof with Flex Seal Liquid
To protect your doghouse from moisture, apply Flex Seal Liquid to the roof. Clean the roof and apply painter’s tape to the edges. In a well-ventilated area, use a paint roller or brush to apply the Flex Seal Liquid in long, even strokes. Let it dry for 24 hours between coats and 48 hours for complete drying.
7. Seal Wood Panels with Flex Seal Clear
Finally, weatherize the wood paneling with Flex Seal Clear. Shake the can and spray it in a sweeping motion, focusing on visible screw holes and gaps. Let the first coat dry for 24 hours before applying additional coats. Allow 48 hours for Flex Seal to fully cure.
Now your DIY doghouse is complete and ready to be enjoyed by your furry companion! Remember to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #FlexDIY. For more inspiration and information, visit 1mquotes.