Building a Multipurpose Bath House for Storage and Showers
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Purpose of the Bath House
- Setting up the Floor
- Building the Walls
- Adding the Roof
- Staining the Bath House
- Using the Bath House for Storage
- The Idea of a Separate Outhouse Building
- Waiting to Start on the Cabin Build
- Conclusion
Building a Bath House: Creating a Multipurpose Storage Shed
Are you considering building a bath house on your property? A bath house can serve as a versatile space, serving as a combination of an outhouse and a shower facility. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of building a multipurpose bath house that can also function as a storage shed. From setting up the floor to adding the finishing touches, we've got you covered. So let's get started on this exciting project!
1. Introduction
Before we dive into the details, let's begin with a quick introduction to the project. A bath house is an essential addition to any property, providing a convenient space for personal hygiene and storage. In our case, the bath house will serve as a temporary storage shed while we construct our cabin. This article will guide you through each stage of the construction process, highlighting the key steps and considerations along the way.
2. The Purpose of the Bath House
The primary purpose of our bath house is to provide a dry storage space for our belongings. As we work on building our cabin, we found ourselves in need of a dedicated area to keep our items protected from the elements. While the bath house will eventually serve as an outhouse and shower combo, for now, it will primarily function as a storage shed. This temporary solution allows us to maintain the organization and integrity of our belongings until our cabin is complete.
3. Setting up the Floor
The first step in constructing the bath house is setting up the floor. This foundation is crucial for providing stability and ensuring the longevity of the structure. By using green treated 4x4 posts as our base, we achieve a solid starting point. Additionally, our floor joists are strategically positioned to create a level surface, which is necessary for the stability of the entire structure. Once the floor is in place, we can proceed with building the walls.
4. Building the Walls
With the floor successfully set, it's time to focus on constructing the walls. Using sturdy lumber, we assemble all four walls, making sure to leave enough space for the doors and windows. It's essential to ensure the walls are plumb and square as we work our way up. Adding multiple studs where necessary enhances the structural integrity of the bath house. Even though we faced a shortage of studs during the process, we improvised and made adjustments to compensate. This article emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resourcefulness when undertaking construction projects.
5. Adding the Roof
After putting up all four walls, it's time to add the roof. We chose to use T-111 siding for its durability and weather resistance. By selecting this material, we ensure that our bath house remains protected from the elements. Carefully securing each panel, we create a tight seal that prevents any water leakage or damage inside the structure. As an additional benefit, the clear roofing allows natural light to filter through, providing a unique and pleasant aesthetic both during the day and at night.
6. Staining the Bath House
To give the bath house a finished look, we decided to stain the exterior. This not only adds a layer of protection but also enhances the overall appearance of the structure. Using scrap pieces from the construction, we tested various stain colors until we found the perfect shade. The chosen color will not only complement the bath house but also match the future cabin we plan to build. By keeping all our buildings visually consistent, we create a cohesive and appealing aesthetic for our property.
7. Using the Bath House for Storage
During the interim period, while waiting to start the cabin build, we have been utilizing the bath house as a storage shed. Its spacious interior has provided us with a convenient solution, keeping our belongings dry and organized. Despite its temporary status, we appreciate the functionality and practicality the bath house offers. This highlights the value of utilizing existing resources creatively while working towards a larger goal.
8. The Idea of a Separate Outhouse Building
After completing the bath house, and considering its current use as a storage shed, we had an idea. We debated transforming the bath house into a shower and sauna combo, and building a separate outhouse nearby. By doing so, we would create a more open floor plan and dedicate a separate space specifically for toilet facilities. This option provides us with the opportunity to design a small four-foot by four-foot outhouse that complements the bath house and our future cabin. It's essential to remain flexible and open to adjusting our plans as we progress with this project.
9. Waiting to Start on the Cabin Build
As excited as we are to begin constructing our dream cabin, there are external factors that influence the timing. Recent snowfall and chilly temperatures have slowed down the thawing of the ground, making it difficult to start the cabin build. However, we remain optimistic as the forecast predicts the upcoming days to be warmer, allowing the snow to melt and the ground to thaw. Once these conditions are met, we will eagerly commence with our cabin construction.
10. Conclusion
In conclusion, building a bath house as a multipurpose storage shed is a practical and exciting project. With careful planning and execution, we successfully constructed a functional and aesthetically pleasing structure. The bath house serves as a temporary storage space while we wait to begin the cabin build. By adapting our plans and considering different options, we explore the idea of constructing a separate outhouse in the future. Stay tuned for the next steps in our journey, and thank you for joining us on this adventure!
Highlights
- Building a versatile bath house: Combining an outhouse and shower facility with a storage shed
- Step-by-step process: Setting up the floor, constructing the walls, adding the roof, and staining the bath house
- Utilizing the bath house as a temporary storage shed while waiting to start the cabin build
- Considering the possibility of a separate four-foot by four-foot outhouse building
- Being adaptable and resourceful when facing challenges during construction
FAQ
Q: Can the bath house be used as a long-term storage solution?
A: While the bath house is primarily intended for temporary storage, it can be used as a long-term solution depending on your needs. However, we recommend constructing a more permanent storage structure for extended use.
Q: How much did it cost to build the bath house?
A: The total cost of the bath house construction was approximately $500. We were able to save money by utilizing existing materials and making the most of affordable options available.
Q: How long did it take to complete the bath house construction?
A: The bath house construction took approximately one day to set up the floor and walls, and an additional day to add the roof and complete the finishing touches.
Q: Can the bath house withstand harsh weather conditions?
A: Yes, the bath house is built to withstand various weather conditions. The materials used, such as T-111 siding and durable roofing, provide protection against rain, wind, and snow.
Q: How can I ensure the bath house remains secure and prevents unauthorized access?
A: To ensure security, we recommend installing a suitable door latch and considering additional security measures such as locks or alarms, depending on your specific circumstances.
