Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

Hey guys.

I want to build a fram around my 3 growbeds as im sick and tired of the bird netting and the possums shitting on top of the bird netting



Im thinking about making a frame out of timber (pine maybe) but i dont want to use treated stuff. I could use PVC but i dont think it would be strong enough.

Is there any timber that is light and will last a few years in the elements and wont cost me a fortune? I could use hardwood but thats too heavy

I have used PVC. It has stood up to some strong storms - although it is on the east side of my house and usually the storms come from the west so it is somewhat protected.

My PVC pipe is curved - is being pushed from both sides - which I think gives it strength.

Edit:

After looking at your pics again. I would attach some timber along your fence and to the frame of your growbed stands. Then curve some PVC pipe between them. I think that will be strong enough.

Californian redwood is the traditional timber of choice, light weight and naturally rot resistant. I could sell you some but being in sydney the shipping would cost a packet.

Hi Zman

I can see a couple of options that would satisfy your requirements.

Firstly go down to your local scrape yard/demolition yard and see what they have.

Usually in the back corner you'll find the scrape metal.
Look for some 2-3 inch gal tube that was used for cyclone fencing.
You can concrete them in and hang anything off them.

secondly they should sell old solid joists and studs from old demolished houses, this wood is
very solid.

thirdly you could use pine.

with both wooden options you will need to seal them with paint( ie solaguard or the such)
The bit that goes into the ground needs to be treated with the appropriate preserver.
(usually a black tarry thing)
Old weatherboard houses are made from pine weather-boards that if sealed easily last 100 years.


As a fourth option you could buy redgum fence post from the fencing contractors, they
usually last 15-20 years.

cheers Lou

The steel post option is going to relatively cheap but on no account use pine. In the humidity of a greenhouse it won't last very long at all.

I could use hardwood from old houses but its going to be heavy as #@$%. Considering i have the GB in place and some of the area is paved and other bits arnt its going to be tricky measuring and cutting then checking with that heavy ass wood.

I have been thinking about using galvanised fencing but will still need a frame on them.....hmmm....