Two easy summer DIY projects

There's a tonne of stuff to do during summer, but let's be honest - it's not really worth doing if it doesn't involve a drill or a saw. If you're looking for something to get stuck into this summer, here are a couple great ideas to flex your DIY muscles, and improve your back yard at the same time.

Hang up a hammock

Doesn't sound like a big task, does it? Well, think about the steps involved and there can be a good day or two of work in it. Of course, if you have a couple big trees conveniently placed around two metres apart, then it really is a quick job.

But for the most part, you'll either need to plant your own trees (now you're thinking long term), or put some posts in the ground. So, what do you need?

You'll need some cement and water, and either a wheelbarrow or a concrete mixer. A spade will be handy to dig the hole, as well as aiding in mixing and pouring.

You'll need stout timber for the two posts, and a saw to cut them to length. Make sure they are high enough to allow for the hammock to sag down when there's weight in it. Of course you'll need fastenings - try stainless steel eye-hooks. Marine grade is best if you're in coastal areas.

And lastly, the hammock. Rope hammocks are great, and won't take too much of a battering from the weather, but if you choose a fabric option, make sure to take it down after use so the wind and rain doesn't wreck it.

Build a barbecue

Building a wood or coal-fired barbecue is a great way to make use of your outdoor area. If you prefer your gas barbie, no problem, build an enclosure around it with a bench top to create an outdoor kitchen.

Lay a concrete slab for the base of your project, or build on top of an existing patio if it's practical. For gas-type barbecues you could essentially build a wooden table around the unit, but for open flame barbecues, you'll need to use bricks.

The Department of Industry recommends clay or concrete bricks for fire resistance, and also has material thickness guides that indicate how long the bricks will maintain their thermal resistance for. Make sure to consider this when choosing bricks for your project.

Whatever you decide to build, renovate or create over the summer, Kennards Hire has the equipment you need to get the job done.