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Bridge For Disappearing Stream

author-gravatar entoaggie Apr 27, 2017

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. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

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. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Just another angle of the same thing. I'll expand on how I drew the arches a little further down. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

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. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

And here is how I drew my curves. Three screws and a stick of pvc. May not be perfect, but better than freehand. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Here is the basic bones of the bridge. I did add more cross braces, but this gives you the idea. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

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. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Used cedar decking for the top. Almost there!

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

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. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Stress test! I holds the weight of a toddler. That's a good sign. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Another angle 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

And another 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Final resting place. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Slightly different angle

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

Close up. 

Photo of Bridge For Disappearing Stream

And the money shot! Hope you enjoyed!

2 comments

That came out great! Thanks for sharing!

Looks fantastic. Well done!

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