what materials

first-timer · By: **first-timer** On: Sat Sep 15, 2007 9:38 pm

i was wondering what to make my coal bin out off, its going to be out side in the weather , t1-11 ? :idea:

Jerry & Karen · By: **Jerry & Karen** On: Sun Sep 16, 2007 8:35 am

Hi F_T,
T111 will work, but you would be better off with marine plywood. When your coal is delivered it will be wet, but you will need to dig deep in your pockets.
Jerry LLS

coaledsweat · By: **coaledsweat** On: Sun Sep 16, 2007 10:48 am

Set it up so it is above grade and drains, you will want a roof (or tarp at least) too. Its no fun trying to bust your fuel out of the ice and snow.

e.alleg · By: **e.alleg** On: Sun Sep 16, 2007 10:59 am

While I agree marine grade plywood is best, you could probably build it out of concrete blocks for the same price. 2x4's and 1/2" OSB will hold coal, put a slanted roof on it and a few bundles of shingles to keep it dry and it will last for a few years anyway.

LsFarm · By: **LsFarm** On: Sun Sep 16, 2007 11:09 am

If you use standard OSB or plywood, give it several coats of paint, especially on the edges of the ply or OSB. This will help reduce moisture absorbtion.
Use presure-treated wood for the bottom where it will set on the ground. And as everyone has said cover it so rain and snow won't get in the coal. It will freeze into a single lump, and you will really have to work to break it up. [been there, got the T-shirt

]

If you are going to have coal delivered, a hinged roof is a neat idea, or at least a door in one side for the coal chute from the delivery truck.

A built in delivery chute to feed your five-gallon bucket with a knife-valve door is a nice touch as well.

Go to the various coalbin threads, there are lots of photos and ideas.

Greg L

.

gaw · By: **gaw** On: Sun Sep 16, 2007 8:08 pm

Depending on where you live if rough cut sawmill lumber is available this is usually a low cost alternative. Spruce will last many years and pine would be good too. It would look rustic and could be stained or oiled or left bare. This would work if you have decent woodworking skills and carpentry tools available. When using rough lumber like this I would use a dado and ship lap all board joints as this lumber usually has moisture in it and shrinks over time. Kiln dried will be less likely to shrink but will cost more.
Just my thoughts, and this only makes sense if you have the cheep sawmill lumber available to you and the time and tools to do it. Otherwise I would stick with the sheet products talked about in earlier posts.