DIY Garden Bridge for Under $40

With our pond and stream complete and finding ourselves spending more time outside in our new seating area, we decided the next step in our long list of backyard projects would be to build a little garden bridge across the stream.

I knew I didn’t want anything too elaborate so I drew a quick sketch to show B what I wanted and together we worked out a rough plan and shopping list.

The bridge totals 4’ from end to end with a slight arch. 

Here is what we bought:

• 1- 2 x 12 x 8 pressure treated
• 1 – 2 x 6 x 10 pressure treated
• 2-1 x 6 x 12 pressure treated deck planking
• 1 box decking screws.

In total the supplies for this simple project cost about $38.  I did not purchase any stain or paint yet because I’m not sure what I want to do to finish the bridge just yet.  This will add a bit more to the cost of the bridge but for now, I am OK leaving it unfinished.

We started by drawing out our design for the two side rails cut out of the 2 x 12 x 8.  We designed it to have “feet” so the bridge could sit above the rocks along the side of the stream.  The hardest part was drawing the curve but we took our time until we got it right and when it was, I cut out the shape using the jigsaw.  

After the first side was cut out, I used it as a template to draw out the other side and then got back to cutting.  Once both sides were cut out, I gave them a quick sanding to clean off any rough edges or splinters.

Next we cut the frames for the middle that holds the two side rails apart.  We wanted a bridge width of 24” so with the two side rails and wanting the flooring plants to hang over the sides about an inch, we cut the inside frames to 19”.  We cut four of these.

Once they were cut, we screwed the two side rails together with the center rails.  We put one on each and then the other two were spaced evenly through the center.  

With the frame complete, it was time to trim the planks for the decking.  These were cut to 24” long and with a slight gap between the planks, we needed 9 planks with the two end planks hanging over the end slightly.

Once the planks were all cut we placed the first in the center and then worked our way to each end.  The entire project took just a couple of hours and cost less than $40.

It is the perfect addition to the stream and Stewie thinks it makes a great place to sunbathe.  Now it will be time to turn our attention to the other side of the patio area where we plan to put the fire pit.