Cedar Arbor

[Thomas Canfield]

This is a western red cedar arbor to span the curved steps going down to the back yard (and my shop). There has been a need for some time for a set of handrails for some to negotiate the fairly steep steps, and my day is coming also. The columns are done as mortise and tendon as are the larger side supports. The 4x4 supports are to span the keystone blocks and provide level for the arbor and attached to the blocks with concrete cinch anchors. Notice the plugs turned on the lathe to cover the anchor bolts. The upper span is screwed construction with the screws on the underneath side to avoid moisture. All the wood was trued up on the joiner and planer to remove the rough surface (about 30 gallons of chips in the dust collector), but left unfinished to weather. The hand rails were left long at this time to "live with" for a while and then decide if they can be shortened a little - "measure twice, cut once" - and they are different slopes due to the curved steps.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

Thomas..........very nicely done! Handsome and strong! The craftsmanship shows!

[Vaughn McMillan]

Great job, Thomas. I built an arbor recently (http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=37260), so I have a good idea how much work you must have into yours to come out that nice.

- Vaughn

[Frank Pellow]

Great job on the arbour Thomas. It really fits enhances the transition between levels in your garden.

After seeing photos of Vaughn’s arbour and now yours, I am trying figure out how to fit an arbor into the major yard/garden renovation that I am planning for my place. If I do find a place for it, I will certainly build the arbour out of western red cedar.

[Mark Pruitt]

Beautiful addition to your home!

[Mark Singer]

excellent! It really looks great!

[John Timberlake]

Great looking arbor. All it needs is climbing roses. Really goes well in that location.