Self-built Country Garden Cabin: A DIY Account of Our Transformative Venture
In the heart of the countryside, a writer embarks on a DIY adventure to anchor an off-grid country garden cabin using concrete post anchors.
Step 1: Location Preparation
Choosing the right location and preparing the ground is crucial for a stable installation. Ensure the ground is level and suitable for anchoring the cabin.
Step 2: Digging Holes for Concrete Footings
Dig holes where each post anchor will be placed, typically at least 12 to 18 inches deep and wide enough to hold the concrete and anchor securely.
Step 3: Installing Concrete Post Anchors
Set the concrete post anchors in the holes by placing them and then pouring concrete around them. Ensure the anchors are plumb and properly aligned. Let the concrete cure fully, generally 24–48 hours, to achieve maximum strength.
Step 4: Attaching the Cabin’s Structural Posts
Attach the cabin’s structural posts to the anchors by drilling into the concrete anchors if needed, inserting anchor bolts or wedge anchors, and tightening nuts and washers to secure the post firmly.
DIY tips include using level tools, pre-drilling holes with a masonry bit, and using wedge anchors sized like 1/4 inch by 2¼ inch for good hold in the concrete.
A practical DIY approach may also involve using a container like a 5-gallon bucket filled with concrete to create a portable anchor base for lighter structures, but for a garden cabin, in-ground concrete footings are more stable and durable.
Moving the Cabin
The writer's off-grid country garden cabin was purchased and moved from the neighbours' property to its permanent spot. A car jack, farm jack, and steel pipes were used to lift and slide the cabin into place.
Garden Updates
The article also discusses various methods for urban food production, the concept of microclimates in a Northern Garden, and the use of rocks to build raised beds and borders in the garden. There's an update on the Ten Years Yard-to-Garden Initiative.
Making and planting seed bombs is another method discussed in the article. The cabin was placed on wooden blocks and a makeshift deck was created.
For those interested, the writer invites readers to subscribe to the newsletter and follow on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest for more DIY tips and gardening updates.
[1] DIY Network. (2021). How to Install Concrete Anchors. [Online]. Available: https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/outdoors/exterior-projects/how-to-install-concrete-anchors [Accessed 10 March 2023].
[2] Bob Vila. (2021). How to Install Concrete Anchors. [Online]. Available: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/concrete-anchors-how-to-install/ [Accessed 10 March 2023].
[3] Family Handyman. (2021). How to Install Concrete Anchors. [Online]. Available: https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-install-concrete-anchors/ [Accessed 10 March 2023].
[4] This Old House. (2021). How to Install Concrete Anchors. [Online]. Available: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/install-concrete-anchors [Accessed 10 March 2023].
[5] Popular Mechanics. (2021). How to Install Concrete Anchors. [Online]. Available: https://www.popularmechanics.com/home/how-to/a32784692/how-to-install-concrete-anchors/ [Accessed 10 March 2023].
- The writer plans to transformed a part of their new off-grid home-and-garden into a cottage garden, planting various flowers, fruits, and vegetables using permaculture principles, aiming to create a thriving ecosystem within their family's living space.
- To accommodate the garden in the cold climate, raised beds will be built using rocks and soil will be slightly warmed and mixed with compost to ensure optimal growing conditions for seeds in the spring.
- As part of the sustainable lifestyle, the writer will collect seeds from the local flora and fauna and start them indoors using trial-and-error methods to see what will grow best in their unique garden.
- In the writer's backyard, they will build a mini greenhouse using recycled materials and ensure it has proper drainage and is insulated to help maintain ideal conditions for seedlings during the colder months.
- Gardening supplies such as compost bins, potting soil, trowels, and gardening gloves are essential items the writer plans on acquiring for their off-grid garden, contributing to their overall building and lifestyle choices.
