Build a Compost Bin Easily and Cheaply
by M. M. Day | June 23, 2009 | In Homemade Compost Bin | Comments Off
If you are interested in building your own composting bin rather than purchasing an (often expensive) manufactured model, there are many different approaches you can take.
A homemade composting bin can be quite simple or very elaborate, depending on the time, effort and money you are willing to put into the project. You may also want to check regarding municipal codes for compost piles before you get started building your own compost bin, just to make sure you stay within the law for your compost heap. There may be some local regulations that you need to keep in mind when building your homemade composting bin.
When planning for your composting bin, you should remember that for the composting process to be most effective the compost pile should be at least three feet in width, height and depth. Be sure you have adequate space when planning the composting bin construction and location. You should also keep in mind the number of composting bins you might need according to level of materials needed to be composted and the method of composting you are using (hot versus cold).
One of the simplest and most affordable ways to construct a homemade composting bin is to use wire fencing. If you can find some welded wire fencing that is over three feet in height, you can purchase about ten full feet of the fencing and turn it into a simple composting bin by wrapping it in a circle and attaching the end with metal ties. (You will want to be able to easily remove the ties so you can remove the metal fencing from around the composting bin once it is full, so do not weld or otherwise permanently attach the ends together).
You can also make an easy composting bin from recycled wooden pallets. You can often pick these pallets up for free at warehouses and stores. Three or four pallets can be tied or nailed together (you may want to leave one side open for easier access), and if you have even more available, you can build multiple composting bins next to each other for even more composting bin space.
Another option for creating a homemade composting bin system is using concrete blocks set on each other as so to make a bin shape. If you stagger the blocks, the heap will be better aerated, and like the wooden pallet system, this can easily be expanded into multiple composting bins if needed.
These are just a few simple suggestions, and there are many other easy and affordable ways to create a home composting bin. If you are interesting in more information about composting bins for home use, including some recommendations of manufactured models, please return to the Composting Bin Home Page.