Now that spring has sprung, it’s the perfect time to satisfy that gardening itch and boost your curb appeal with a DIY window box. All you need is a beautiful window, a few tools and some free time. Read on to learn what kinds of tools you’ll need, how to build to build the box itself, and how to affix it to your window exterior. Scroll down to get started.
Window boxes are decorative boxes that allow you to display flowers, plants, or other greenery. If you’re looking for a charming addition to your exterior space, window boxes are for you.
What you’ll need for a DIY window box:
Materials
Tools
Time required: 2-4 hours active time, plus time for paint to dry
Start by using your tape measure to measure the width of the window you’ll be putting your box under. This will determine the length of most of your pieces of wood.
Your box is going to be 8 inches tall, 11 inches deep, and the width of your window. All of the main pieces of wood will be 8 inches tall, while your trim will be shorter (exact measurements below).
Many home improvement stores sell 8 in planks of cedar or cypress, which makes cutting your pieces much easier. You can also purchase planks and cut them into 8 in wide pieces.
You’ll want to purchase enough cedar or cypress to cut the following pieces:
And enough 2x4s or decorative trim to cut the following pieces:
Many home improvement stores sell 8 in planks of cedar or cypress, which makes cutting your pieces much easier. You can also purchase planks and cut them into 8 in wide pieces.
Start by laying one of the 8 in x window length pieces flat on your workspace. This will be the bottom of your box. Stand another piece of 8 in x window length along the long side of the bottom and secure with clamps (optional). Repeat this with the last 8 in x window length piece. This is the front and back of your box.
To attach them, drill pilot holes every 4-8” along the bottom edges with your ⅛” drill bit. Insert screws into the holes along front and back.
Repeat this process for the short sides of your box.
When you have finished assembling your box, be sure to drill drainage holes in the bottom with a ½ inch or ⅜ in drill bit. We recommend one hole every 6 inches.
Now it’s time to add a decorative touch to your window box. With your hammer and rust-proof nails, attach one of the 1-¼ in wide x window length pieces along the top of the front of your box and the other along the bottom of the front. (You’ll only attach trim to the front of the box where it will be visible.)
When those pieces are secure, you’ll move on to the 1-¼ in wide x 5-¾ in long pieces. These will be placed vertically (perpendicular to the trim we just attached): one at either end of the front of the box and one in the middle.
Your box is almost done! You just need to paint or stain it and attach it under your window.
If you choose to paint it, start with a primer to create a nice barrier to prevent the wood from soaking up the paint. Let the primer dry completely, then apply 1-2 coats of an exterior semi-gloss paint.
If you’re staining your box, apply the stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Don’t forget to paint or stain your wooden brackets!
When your brackets and box are dry, it’s time to attach them to your home and fill them with flowers, herbs, or any other greenery you’d like to showcase!
Pair your window box with brand new windows to give your home’s exterior a complete makeover. Schedule your free estimate to learn about our windows and how they can transform your home.