Constructing A Pump House That Will Last

A pump house can help keep your water pump safe from damage, out of the elements. If you have a well dug at your home, secure the well pump with a strong, sturdy building that will save you money in costs of operation and maintenance.

Depending on how elaborate you want to make your plans, or what your current needs are, you could turn you pump house into a storage shed, pool changing area, outdoor bathroom or even workshop. A building like this could be expensive to build,and require special building skills. However, a simple, strong, long lasting pump house can be an easy task for a beginning do-it-yourselfer.

Prepare Ground and Set Posts

Use the post hole digger to dig holes 4 feet apart. Dig the holes below the frost layer in your area. A hole that is at least 18 inches to 24 inches is usually deep enough.

Set in the posts so that they rise about 4 feet above ground, with the front posts at least 6 inches taller than the back posts. Then either backfill the holes with dirt and tap until it is secure, or set the posts in quick-dry cement.

Build Sides and Back

Using the circular saw, cut the 2x4 lumber down to the correct lengths and begin nailing lengthwise to the posts. If you want a different look, then use a top, bottom and middle brace and nail the 2x4s vertically. Do this all the way around 3 sides (the front of the pump house will be a door).

Line the insides of the walls with insulation to protect against freezing weather.

Build and Attach Door

Build a basic square frame that will fit the dimensions of the front opening. Line it with the 2x4s as you did with the walls. Attach two door hinges to one side and secure to the front of the pump house. Attach a handle—you can make a simple one from a block of wood—and a clasp to keep door secured.

Put on Roof and Paint

Cut the metal siding to size using the tin snips. Place on the top of the 2x6 posts. Nail securely to the posts and 2x4 sides.

Once you have the roof on, you can then paint the building, or seal it to protect from rain, heat, snow, freezing and thawing.