Building your own raft with 55-gallon drums is not only a fun and challenging DIY project but also a great way to spend a weekend outdoors. Whether you’re planning a lazy river cruise or an adventurous fishing trip, a homemade drum raft will surely elevate your experience.
Why Use 55 Gallon Drums?
Drums are easily accessible, cost-effective, and durable materials to use for building a raft. They are designed to hold and transport liquid which makes them inherently buoyant and waterproof – extremely desirable properties for any water vessel.
What Makes a 55 Gallon Drum Suitable for Rafts?
A standard drum measures about three feet tall and two feet in diameter – a size that offers both stability and buoyancy. Most of these drums are made of steel or plastic. While steel drums are stronger, plastic drums are lighter and equally resilient, making them a popular choice for raft building.
In addition to being sturdy and reliable, 55 gallon drums can support massive amounts of weight. A single empty drum can hold up to about 450 pounds of weight before it begins to sink. This means you can build a larger raft or carry more supplies without worrying about buoyancy.
How to Build a Raft with 55 Gallon Drums?
Materials You Need
To build a raft using 55 gallon drums, you will need:
1. Four 55 gallon drums
2. Two 10-foot 2×6 planks
3. Six 8-foot 2×4 planks
4. Screws, nuts, and bolts
5. Rope or cord
6. Saw
7. Power drill
Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Frame
Cut two 2×6 planks the same length as your desired raft. Position these two planks parallel to each other, where your drums will eventually sit. These will form the main structure of your raft. Place the 2×4 planks perpendicular to the 2×6 planks, creating a ladder-like structure. Ideally, the distance between the 2×4 planks should be slightly less than the length of your drums. Secure the structure using screws.
Step 2: Attaching the Drums
Position your drums beneath the frame, ensuring they fit snugly between the 2×4 planks. The drums should be perpendicular to the 2×6 planks and parallel to the 2x4s. Once satisfied, tightly secure the drums using strong and durable ropes or cords.
Step 3: Finishing Up
Check for any weak points in your setup. Double check each joint to make sure everything is well-secured. Finally, add a sturdy plank across the top as a deck, and your raft is ready!
What Other Precautions Should You Take?
Building a raft with 55 gallon drums is straightforward, but safety should be your topmost priority. Always check the buoyancy and stability of your raft before setting off. Don’t forget the life jackets and always adhere to local laws and regulations for water safety.
In conclusion, building a raft with 55 gallon drums can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. With the right materials and a bit of hard work, you can have your own personal vessel to explore the waterways.
