How to Build and Hang a Bird House

Build a simple bird house using cedar boards, drill an entrance hole, assemble with screws, and hang 5-6 feet high on a pole or tree away from predators.

1. Size and Sand All Pieces. Cut your cedar boards to size: front and back panels 7 inches wide by 8 inches tall, sides 5 inches wide by 8 inches tall, bottom 5x5 inches, and roof pieces 5x7 inches and 6x7 inches. Sand all pieces smooth to prevent splinters and ensure clean edges.
2. Create the Entry Point. Mark a point 2 inches down from the top center of the front panel. Use a 1.25-inch spade bit to drill the entrance hole completely through. This size works well for chickadees, wrens, and nuthatches. Sand the hole edges smooth.
3. Breathe Easy, Drain Well. Drill three small holes near the top of each side panel for ventilation. In the bottom panel, drill four quarter-inch holes in the corners for drainage. These prevent moisture buildup that can harm nestlings.
4. Prevent Wood Splitting. Use a small drill bit to pre-drill holes where you'll attach the panels. This prevents the wood from splitting when you drive in the screws. Mark locations about half an inch from each edge.
5. Lock the Walls Together. Apply a thin line of exterior wood glue to the edges of the side panels. Attach the front and back panels using 1.25-inch exterior screws. Make sure corners are square and flush. Wipe away any excess glue immediately.
6. Install the Floor. Slide the bottom panel into place inside the assembled walls. It should sit about a quarter-inch up from the bottom edges to help with drainage. Secure with screws driven through the side panels into the bottom edges.
7. Crown It and Seal It. Place the smaller roof piece flush with the back panel. Position the larger piece to overlap by about an inch, creating an overhang that sheds water. Secure both pieces with screws driven down into the top edges of the walls.
8. Ready for Hanging. Screw a metal hanging bracket or eye hook into the back panel near the top. Alternatively, drill pilot holes and attach the house directly to a mounting board that you'll later secure to a pole or tree.
9. Scout the Perfect Spot. Select a spot 5-6 feet high that gets morning sun but afternoon shade. Avoid areas with heavy foot traffic or where cats can easily reach. Face the entrance away from prevailing winds and rain.
10. Hang It Fast and True. If using a pole, dig a hole 18 inches deep and set the pole in concrete. For tree mounting, use galvanized lag screws long enough to bite deep into healthy wood. Ensure the house is level and stable.