Concrete bird baths are a popular addition to any garden or outdoor space. They provide a beautiful focal point while also attracting birds to your yard. Making your own concrete bird bath may seem like a daunting task, but with the right materials and a little bit of patience, it can be a fun and rewarding project.
In this comprehensive guide, we will show you how you can build your own concrete bird bath with ease. So, let’s get started!
Why Should You Make a Concrete Bird Bath?
Here are some key reasons why you should make a concrete bird bath:
- Provides water source for birds: A bird bath gives birds a place to drink, bathe, and cool off, especially during hot summer months. This can help attract more birds to your yard.
- Customizable design: Concrete allows you to create unique shapes and looks for your birdbath. You can add decorative tiles, shells, stones etc. to match your garden.
- Durable material: Concrete birdbaths are very sturdy and weather-resistant. With proper care, they can last for many years outdoors.
- Cost effective: Making your own concrete birdbath is inexpensive compared to buying a premade one. The basic materials like cement and sand are affordable.
- Easy weekend project: With simple molds and mixing concrete, building a birdbath is a fun DIY project you can do in a weekend. No advanced skills required.
- Adds visual interest: A concrete birdbath becomes a beautiful focal point in any garden or yard. Different sizes and shapes provide visual variety.
- Low maintenance: Concrete birdbaths just need occasional cleaning, sealing, and winter protection. Properly cared for, they last a long time.
- Provides entertainment: It’s relaxing and fun to watch different birds splashing in and drinking from the birdbath you made!
So, if you want to add visual appeal to your yard, help neighborhood birds, and have a simple DIY project, making your own concrete birdbath is very rewarding. The customized designs and low cost make concrete birdbaths a great choice.
Materials Needed for a Concrete Bird Bath
To make a concrete bird bath, there are several materials that you will need. These materials can be found at your local hardware store or online. Here are the materials needed to make a concrete bird bath:
- Cement mix: You will need a bag of cement mix to make the bird bath. Rapid set or cement all are good options for faster drying time.
- Sand: Sand is used to help with drainage and to prevent cracking.
- Bowl or mold: You will need a bowl or mold to create the shape of the bird bath. A dollar store bowl or disposable bowl can be used as a mold.
- Water: Water is needed to mix with the cement mix.
- Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to cover the mold to prevent the cement mix from sticking to it.
- Gloves: Nitrile gloves are recommended to protect your hands from the cement mix.
- Trowel: A trowel is used to mix and spread the cement mix.
- Concrete form tube: A concrete form tube is used to create the pedestal of the bird bath.
- Pebbles or stones: Pebbles or stones can be added to the cement mix to add texture and decoration to the bird bath.
- Concrete sealer: A concrete sealer is used to protect the bird bath from water damage and to make it easier to clean.
Optional materials that can be added to the bird bath include:
- Planters or dishes: Planters or dishes can be added to the bird bath to create a water feature or to hold bird seed.
- Rocks: Rocks can be added to the base of the bird bath for decoration.
- Grit: Grit can be added to the cement mix to make it less slippery for birds.
- Paintbrush and acrylic paint: A paintbrush and acrylic paint can be used to paint the bird bath a brightly colored hue.
- Polyurethane: Polyurethane can be used to protect the paint on the bird bath.
- Hack saw, chisel, and metal file: These tools can be used to create designs or patterns on the bird bath.
- Sanding block: A sanding block can be used to smooth out rough edges on the bird bath.
Overall, these materials will allow you to create a beautiful and functional concrete bird bath for your garden or backyard.
Selecting & Preparing the Mold
The first step is selecting containers to use as molds for the birdbath. You will need two molds – one for the outside shape and one for the inside basin.
- The outer mold will form the overall shape of the birdbath. Look for a container 10-14 inches wide.
- The inner mold will create the shallow basin for the water. This should be a container 6-8 inches wide and 2 inches deep.
Plastic containers like buckets, bowls, and plant pots work very well as concrete molds. Make sure to select smooth containers, as the texture will show on the finished birdbath. Before using as molds, clean containers thoroughly and spray or wipe them with a mold release agent like cooking oil so the concrete does not stick.
One option for making a mold is to use sand. To do this, the sand should be moistened slightly and then shaped into the desired form. It is important to pack the sand tightly to ensure that the mold holds its shape. Once the sand is packed, a depression can be made in the center to create the bowl of the bird bath.
Another option is to use a plastic mold or molds specifically designed for making bird baths. These can be purchased at most home improvement stores or online. When using a plastic mold, it is important to ensure that it is clean and free of any debris.
A concrete form tube can also be used as a mold. This is a cardboard tube that is designed for creating cylindrical shapes. To use a concrete form tube, it should be cut to the desired height and then lined with plastic wrap or a trash bag to prevent the concrete from sticking to the cardboard.
Once the mold has been selected, it should be coated with a release agent to make it easier to remove the bird bath once it has been cast. A mixture of one part dish soap to ten parts water can be used as a release agent.
Mixing and Pouring the Concrete
Mixing and pouring the concrete is a crucial step in building a concrete bird bath. The first step is to gather all the necessary tools, including a hoe, trowel, spade, and a container to mix the concrete in.
Next, measure out the correct ratio of concrete to water. A 4:1 ratio of concrete to water is recommended for a sturdy bird bath. Begin by pouring the concrete mix into the container, followed by the water. Use the hoe to mix the concrete thoroughly until it has a smooth consistency.
Once the concrete is mixed, it’s time to pour it into the mold. Begin by filling the bottom of the mold with a layer of concrete, making sure it is evenly distributed. Use the spade to remove any air pockets and smooth out the surface.
After the first layer has been poured, add the second layer and continue until the mold is filled. Use the trowel to smooth out the top layer of concrete, making sure it is level and even.
If using fast-setting concrete, be sure to work quickly as it sets rapidly. Allow the concrete to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before removing the mold. Mixing and pouring concrete can be a messy process, so be sure to wear protective clothing and work in a well-ventilated area.
Creating Unique Bird Bath Designs
When it comes to making a concrete bird bath, there are endless possibilities for creating unique designs. Here are some ideas to get started:
Stone Impressions: Use stones to create interesting impressions in the concrete. Simply place the stones on the bottom of the mold before pouring in the concrete, and press down firmly. When the concrete is set, remove the stones to reveal the unique pattern.
Glass and Pebbles: Add a touch of sparkle to the bird bath by embedding glass or pebbles in the concrete. Mix them into the concrete before pouring or press them into the surface after the concrete has been poured.
File and Bump: Create a textured surface by using a file or bump tool to rough up the surface of the concrete. This can create a more natural look, like rough stone or tree bark.
Planters and Tomato Cages: Incorporate planters or tomato cages into the design for a functional bird bath that doubles as a planter. Simply place the planter or tomato cage in the center of the mold before pouring in the concrete.
Dollar Store Bowl: Use a dollar store bowl as a mold to create a unique shape. Simply coat the inside of the bowl with cooking spray, pour in the concrete, and let it set.
Paint and Chisel: Add some color to the bird bath by painting it with brightly colored acrylic paint. For added texture, use a chisel or metal file to create grooves in the surface of the concrete before painting.
Leaf Impressions: Create a natural look by pressing leaves into the surface of the concrete before it sets. This will leave behind a unique leaf pattern that adds visual interest.
Shells: Use shells to create a beachy vibe. Simply press the shells into the surface of the concrete before it sets, or mix them into the concrete before pouring.
With these ideas in mind, anyone can create a unique and functional concrete bird bath that will add beauty to any outdoor space.
Curing and Sealing the Bird Bath
Once the concrete bird bath is completely set, it’s time to cure and seal it. Curing is the process of keeping the concrete moist and at a stable temperature to ensure it reaches its maximum strength. Sealing, on the other hand, is done to protect the concrete from weathering and staining.
To cure the bird bath, cover it with plastic sheeting or a curing blanket and keep it moist for at least 7 days. This will help prevent cracking and ensure the concrete reaches its full strength. If the weather is hot and dry, it’s important to keep the bird bath moist by spraying it with water periodically.
After curing, it’s time to seal the bird bath. A concrete sealer can be used to protect the surface from weathering and staining. Before applying the sealer, make sure the bird bath is completely dry. It’s recommended to use a fast-setting concrete sealer that can be applied with a brush or sprayer.
One option for sealing the bird bath is to use a polyurethane sealer. This type of sealer provides a clear, glossy finish that enhances the natural beauty of the concrete. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the sealer to ensure proper coverage and adhesion.
Setting Up the Bird Bath
Before setting up the bird bath, it is important to choose the right location. The ideal location should be in a quiet area, away from predators and close to trees or bushes where birds can perch. Make sure the ground is level and stable to prevent the bird bath from tipping over.
There are different ways to set up a bird bath depending on the type of bird bath you have. For a DIY bird bath, a tomato cage can be used as a base and a plastic plant saucer can be used as the bowl. Duct tape can be used to secure the bowl to the cage. For a pedestal bird bath, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembly.
For a post-mounted bird bath, dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the post and secure it with concrete. A creek or a trash can lid can also be used as a base for the bird bath.
If hanging the bird bath, make sure the rope or chain is strong enough to hold the weight of the bird bath and filled water. A sturdy tree or a post can be used as an anchor point.
Once the bird bath is set up, fill it with clean water and keep it filled at all times. It is important to clean the bird bath regularly to prevent the growth of bacteria and to keep it safe for birds to use. Pets should be kept away from the bird bath to prevent them from disturbing the birds.
Maintaining Your Bird Bath
To keep your concrete bird bath looking good and functioning properly, you should follow some basic maintenance procedures. Here are some tips to help you keep your bird bath in top condition:
Clean your bird bath regularly: Birds prefer clean water, and a dirty bird bath can harbor bacteria and algae that can be harmful to birds. Use a scrub brush and mild soap to clean your bird bath every week or two, and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.
Keep the water level consistent: Birds need a consistent source of water, so make sure your bird bath is always filled with fresh water. Check the water level daily, and add water as needed.
Change the water frequently: In hot weather, water can become stagnant and attract mosquitoes and other insects. Change the water in your bird bath every two or three days to keep it fresh and clean.
Add a water feature: Birds are attracted to the sound of running water, so consider adding a water feature to your bird bath. A simple fountain or bubbler can create a relaxing sound that will attract birds to your yard.
Provide food: In addition to water, birds need food to survive. Consider placing a squirrel-proof bird feeder near your bird bath to attract a variety of birds. Choose brightly colored seeds to attract a wider variety of birds.
Protect your birds: Hawks and other predators can pose a threat to birds that visit your bird bath. Consider hanging a bird bath in a tree or placing it near a creek where birds can escape if necessary. Keep pets away from your bird bath, and make sure it is positioned in a safe location.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your concrete bird bath looking great and provide a safe and attractive water source for your feathered friends.
Additional Tips and Tricks
When making a concrete bird bath, here are some additional tips and tricks that can help ensure success:
Use a release agent: Applying a release agent to the mold before pouring the concrete can make it easier to remove the bird bath once it has cured. Cooking spray, petroleum jelly, or vegetable oil can all work as release agents.
Reinforce the concrete: Adding reinforcement to the concrete can help make the bird bath more durable. You can use wire mesh or rebar to reinforce the concrete.
Add color: If you want to add color to your bird bath, you can mix concrete dye or pigment into the concrete mix. You can also add color to the surface of the bird bath by painting it with concrete stain or outdoor paint.
Seal the concrete: Sealing the concrete can help protect it from weathering and make it easier to clean. You can use a concrete sealer or a waterproofing spray to seal the bird bath.
Consider alternative materials: While concrete is a popular choice for bird baths, there are other materials you can use as well. A tomato cage can be repurposed into a simple and inexpensive bird bath, and a teapot can be turned into a charming and unique bird bath.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a beautiful and functional bird bath that will attract birds to your yard for years to come.
Final Thoughts
With a few basic materials and some creativity, you can build a unique concrete birdbath customized to your own taste and garden design. Making your own allows you to add special touches like decorative tiles, shells or stones. Your new birdbath will be appreciated by local birds and make a wonderful addition to your outdoor living space.
FAQs
What type of concrete should I use for bird bath?
You can use a pre-mixed concrete or make your own mix using cement, sand, gravel, and water. Aim for a thick, workable consistency.
What can I use as molds for the birdbath?
Plastic containers like buckets, bowls, and plant pots work very well as concrete molds. Make sure they are smooth and clean them thoroughly before using.
What’s the best way to decorate my birdbath?
Press tiles, stones, or glass gems into the wet concrete before it sets. You can also paint, stain, or seal the finished birdbath and embed decorative items.
How can I elevate my birdbath off the ground?
Consider placing your birdbath on a pedestal or stand. You can use metal, wood, or stone stands available at garden stores or build your own.
Should I put anything in the birdbath for the birds?
Placing pebbles or stones in the basin gives birds a place to stand while bathing. Ramps can also help birds get in and out easily.