Bridge For Disappearing Stream
I work at a nursery that specializes in water gardens/water features. Last year we decommissioned a huge pond and a second small pond and built a disappearing stream in their place. My boss commissioned me to build a bridge to go over the stream. I didn't do the best job of documenting the project, but I think I took enough pics along the way to share. Also, this is my first project to share on here, so be kind if/when I screw something up.
I wish I had taken more pics along the way, but I'll try to explain anything that doesn't have a picture. So, I started with 3 pressure treated 2x12's 16 feet long. Because of the height of the sides of the stream, I needed more clearance than a 2x12 would allow, so to get more clearance I cut the bottom arch out and fastened it to the top. I'm well aware that laminating the pieces together would have been better, but lacking a way to properly joint the mating surfaces, I went with lots of screws and 2x4's screwed to the inside for added support.
Just another angle of the same thing. I'll expand on how I drew the arches a little further down.
Dry fit with one of the runners before I cut all three. Here I was planning on using steps to keep as much wood intact as I could for structural integrity, but decided to make it somewhat ADA compliant and have a smooth transition from ground to bridge. Also thought the top looked kinda clunky, so I narrowed that a bit as well.
And here is how I drew my curves. Three screws and a stick of pvc. May not be perfect, but better than freehand.
Here is the basic bones of the bridge. I did add more cross braces, but this gives you the idea.
I know I skipped a few steps here, but basically just bolted on cedar 4x4's to define the edge for safety and to mimic the look of piles on a pier.
Used cedar decking for the top. Almost there!
Done! Lightly oiled because I couldn't decide in a finish that would be more durable, so I get to oil it up every few months now.
Stress test! I holds the weight of a toddler. That's a good sign.
Another angle
And another
Final resting place.
Slightly different angle
Close up.
And the money shot! Hope you enjoyed!
That came out great! Thanks for sharing!
Looks fantastic. Well done!