How To Build A Tiki Bar

Step 1. Decide a pattern and basic shape for your Tiki Hut. Start bulding the frame. Make sure it is where you want to leave it, as the frame quicly becomes very heavy.

Step 2. Don't forget to plan for a sink and refridgerator when framing in your Tiki hut. you may not want to go to these lengths, but it sure adds to the finished product when done. Buy your bar stools ahead of time so you can build the countertop height accordingly.

Step 3. Be sure to allow posts for the roof support. Try to find something that is natural looking. Here we used lodge pine post or cedar posts with frayed bark that was left unfinished. Cedar is naturally rot resistant and should last indefinately being under the shelter of a roof.

Step 4. Frame the roof. A straight Tiki Hut roof won't be as difficult as a hip or A framed roof. Determine if you want to have an original flat look or a traditional home style look when it was completed. Make sure it has good pitch for water drainage, no less than a 10 degree angle. You don't want water laying around under your palm leave thatch or it will cause mold and the thatch will not last as long.

Step 5. Complete the roof with treated plywood and put seam sealing tape over all of the plywood joints. This will help waterproof in addition to the palm leave thatch. For a open air roof which is the best way. This will make tempetures cooler underneath the roof and will let the thatch breath causing less mold after time.

Step 6. Next install your counter top. You can use a seashell tile mat comprised of small smooth natural seashells. Various sealife tiles were added to serve as coasters for drinks and to add variety to our top.

Step 7. Install thatching around the outer edge first creating the overhang you prefer most use 12" for overhang then flipping the rest onto the roof and staple down with no less than a 9/16 staple. Then install the next row overlapping 6-8 inches like puting up roof shingles, very easy to do.

Step 8. Make sure you consider options such as a ceiling fan to make your project more compplete and user friendly! Complete all finsihing materials. We stapled bamboo screen around the outside for a finished tropical look. The customer then added some tropical decor of his choosing.

Step 9. Consider lighting that will add a great night effect. Now invite some people over and enjoy your new addition!