How to Make a Small Atrium

* 2-inch by 6-inch framing lumber

* 1/2-inch plywood

* 1-inch by 6-inch boards

* 2-inch by 4-inch boards

* 1/4-inch lag screws

* 3-inch deck screws

* 1-1/4-inch brad nails

* Wood glue

* Caulk

* Paint or stain (optional)

Tools

* Saw

* Drill

* Sander

* Level

* Tape measure

* Pencil

* Safety glasses

* Dust mask

Instructions

1. Determine the size and location of your atrium. The atrium should be at least 4 feet wide and 8 feet long, and it should be located in a sunny spot in your yard.

2. Build the frame of the atrium. Use the 2-inch by 6-inch framing lumber to build a rectangular frame. The frame should be the same size as the desired size of your atrium.

3. Attach the plywood to the frame. Use the 1/2-inch plywood to cover the frame of the atrium. Attach the plywood with the 3-inch deck screws.

4. Build the roof of the atrium. Use the 1-inch by 6-inch boards to build the roof of the atrium. Attach the boards to the frame of the atrium with the 1-1/4-inch brad nails.

5. Add the trim. Use the 2-inch by 4-inch boards to add trim around the edges of the atrium. Attach the trim with the 1-1/4-inch brad nails.

6. Caulk the seams. Caulk the seams between the plywood and the framing lumber, and the seams between the roof boards. This will help to seal the atrium and prevent water damage.

7. Paint or stain the atrium (optional). You can paint or stain the atrium to match your home or your personal preferences.

Tips

* If you live in a cold climate, you may want to insulate the atrium. You can do this by adding insulation to the walls and roof of the atrium.

* You can add windows and doors to the atrium to make it more functional.

* You can also add plants and other decorations to the atrium to make it more inviting.