How to Build a Squirrel House Using One Cedar Fence Picket

Making a squirrel house is a fun and easy project that doesn’t need many supplies and helps the animals in your yard.

If you want to help squirrels stay safe or just like watching animals, this guide will show you how to build a strong and nice-looking squirrel house with one cedar board.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

To make this project easy and low-cost, all you need is one cedar fence board, usually about 5.5 inches wide and 72 inches long. Cedar is a great choice because it’s naturally weather-resistant and safe for animals.

You’ll also need a few basic tools: a saw (hand or circular), drill with bits (including a 3-inch hole saw bit), screwdriver, sandpaper, and measuring tape.

Optional tools like a rotary tool or clamps can make the job easier, but they’re not strictly necessary.

Wood glue and 1¼” to 1½” screws or nails will hold everything together. Lastly, make sure the stuff you use like glue or fillers is safe and not treated with chemicals, so it won’t harm the squirrels.

Cutting the Wood Pieces

Start by measuring and cutting your cedar fence picket into the following parts:

• One back panel at 12 inches
• One front panel at 12 inches
• Two side panels, each 9 inches tall
• One floor piece, 5.5 inches long
• Two roof pieces, each 7 inches long

These sizes make for a compact, snug squirrel home while ensuring there’s enough material to complete the build from a single picket. After cutting, lightly sand each piece to remove splinters and rough edges.

Building the Squirrel House

Begin by preparing the front panel. Drill a 3-inch entrance hole roughly 2 inches from the top center of the board. This hole size is ideal for squirrels to enter and exit comfortably.

Next, attach the side panels to the back panel using wood glue and screws or nails. Place the floor piece between the side panels at the bottom, securing it tightly.

Once the box is formed, attach the front panel ensuring the hole is correctly positioned at the top and secure it as well.

For the roof, place the two pieces on top of the box with a slight overlap to allow rain to run off. Cedar is naturally weather-resistant, but proper roof overhang adds protection.

Fasten the roof panels with screws or nails, and double-check all corners and joints for sturdiness.

Adding Ventilation and Drainage

To keep the squirrel house dry and comfortable, it’s smart to drill a few small holes near the top of the side panels for ventilation.

Also, drill two or three small holes in the floor piece to allow any water that gets inside to drain out.

These simple additions greatly improve the livability of the house and help prevent mold or rot.

Mounting the Squirrel House

When it comes to installation, location matters. Choose a tree or pole that’s at least 10 feet off the ground to protect the squirrels from predators.

The entrance hole should ideally face east or south to avoid wind and rain blowing directly into the house.

Mounting can be done with brackets or long wood screws, depending on where you’re installing it.

Ensure it’s secure and stable movement or swaying can discourage squirrels from nesting.

Ongoing Maintenance

To keep the squirrel house in good shape, check it once a year best in late winter before squirrels start having babies.

Clear out old nesting material and check for damage or mold. If needed, re-sand any rough areas and reapply a light natural wood finish (avoid chemicals).

A well-maintained squirrel house can last for years and become a reliable shelter season after season.

Final Thoughts

Building a squirrel house from one cedar fence picket is an easy and satisfying way to support your local wildlife.

This low-cost project can be completed in a single afternoon, even by beginners. It teaches basic woodworking skills, uses sustainable materials, and has a lasting impact.

Not only do you create a safe space for squirrels, but you also invite more nature into your daily life.

So grab that cedar picket and start building you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to make a big difference with just a few cuts and screws.