Building a wooden outdoor bar with a built-in cooler is a fun and practical DIY project that will elevate your outdoor entertaining space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Pressure-treated wood (for the frame and base)
- Cedar or redwood (for exterior finish)
- Plywood (for shelves and cooler compartment)
- Galvanized screws
- Wood glue
- Hinges (for cooler lid)
- Outdoor paint or stain (weather-resistant)
- Insulated cooler (preferably a rectangular one to fit in the bar)
- Saw (circular saw or miter saw)
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Sandpaper
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Planning and Design
- Size and Layout: Decide on the size of your bar. A typical bar height is about 42 inches tall, and the countertop can be anywhere from 48 to 72 inches wide. Make sure to account for the size of your cooler when determining the dimensions.
- Cooler Space: Choose a cooler that fits the design and provides enough storage. Plan the space to be accessible for easy loading and unloading.
- Bar Features: Consider if you want shelves for bottles, a footrest, or additional storage.
2. Building the Frame
- Cut the pressure-treated wood to size for the frame. You’ll need two side supports, a front, and a back. Ensure that the frame is sturdy enough to support the weight of the countertop and cooler.
- Assemble the frame using screws and wood glue. Make sure the structure is square and level.
3. Creating the Cooler Compartment
- Measure the cooler to determine the exact dimensions of the compartment.
- Use plywood to create a space within the frame for the cooler. Cut the plywood to fit around the cooler, leaving just enough room for easy removal.
- Install the plywood walls and bottom of the compartment, securing them to the frame.
4. Adding the Countertop
- Cut a piece of plywood or solid wood to fit as the countertop. You can use a smooth finish for a more polished look, or go for a more rustic style with reclaimed wood.
- Attach the countertop to the top of the frame, securing it with screws from underneath.
- Sand the edges to ensure smoothness and safety.
5. Installing the Cooler Lid
- Attach the cooler lid with hinges, so it can be easily opened and closed.
- You may want to line the interior of the cooler compartment with foam insulation to keep your drinks cold longer. This can be secured with adhesive.
6. Finishing Touches
- Sand the entire bar to remove any rough edges or splinters.
- Apply an outdoor wood stain or paint to protect the wood from the elements. Choose a weather-resistant finish to ensure durability.
- Add optional features like a footrest (a horizontal bar near the bottom), bottle holders, or shelving for additional storage.
7. Adding the Final Touches
- Decorate the bar with outdoor lights, bar stools, or any other personal touches to make the space more inviting.
- Make sure the bar is placed in a stable, level area.
Tips:
- Ventilation: If you plan to keep the cooler compartment closed for long periods, consider adding some ventilation holes to prevent moisture buildup.
- Waterproofing: Seal all surfaces to protect against water damage and prevent wood rot.
- Personalization: You can add features like a built-in sink, cup holders, or shelves to store accessories.
With these steps, you’ll have a functional and stylish wooden outdoor bar with a built-in cooler to enjoy during gatherings. Make sure to follow safety guidelines when using tools, and take your time to get the best results!
For more detailed woodworking projects, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.