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| The actual thickness and width of a board are slightly smaller than what's advertised, so a 1-inch thick by 4-inch wide (2.5 by 10-centimeter) board is actually 3/4-inch by 3.5 inches (2 by 8.25 centimeters). When using any type of electric saw, always follow the proper safety procedures. Never use an electric saw for the first time without an experienced person helping you. For the roof, you may want to use a slightly wider board (at least 2 inches, or 5 centimeters) for better protection against the elements. For a more refined look for your birdhouse, smooth the edges of each piece with medium-grade sandpaper after you make your cuts. |
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The following chart gives birdhouse dimensions for the more common North American songbirds, with the metric equivalent (in centimeters) in parentheses:
Here's how to use the chart: First, purchase a board matching the specifications in total board size. Boards are sold according to thickness, width (both of these in inches or centimeters), and length (in feet or meters). While you can use inexpensive wood, such as pine or exterior plywood, more durable woods like cedar, redwood, or cypress will last longer. Use a ruler and pencil to mark off each section of the birdhouse on the board. Start with the floor size (with half-inch, or 1-centimeter, triangles cut from each corner for drainage holes), then mark the front and back height for the two slanted sides of the house. To save board space, mark the shorter front end, then the taller back end on one edge of the board. On the opposite edge, mark them the other way around, then draw the slant between them. Next is the front facing piece, which should be 1/4-inch (.6 centimeters) taller than the front height of the side pieces. This is to allow a thin vent on each side of the house to keep the interior cool. To mark the entrance hole, start at the middle of one end of the facing (width-wise), then measure the hole height, bisecting the length of the facing. The spot should be about 2.5 inches (6 centimeters) from the opposite end of the facing. Use the spot as the center point for your compass when you draw the hole. Note: The box's entrance hole diameter is very specific because particular species prefer particular-sized holes, and because the hole size can protect species from larger, predatory birds, which can destroy or take over a nest. Finally, the house will need a roof and backing. Use the remainder of the board for both. The length of the backing should be at least 4 inches (10 centimeters) longer than the back side pieces of the box. The roof's length should be at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) longer than the slant of the side pieces.
Once you've marked all the dimensions, make your cuts using a saw. Work left to right, floor to backing. Drill out the entrance hole with a drill and hole saw attachment, and you're ready to assemble.
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Mark and cut the dimensions
