Introduction
Installing a laundry pedestal in your home can provide many benefits. Raising your washer and dryer can make loading and unloading much easier by reducing the need to bend over. A pedestal also allows you to stack the washer and dryer units to save floor space. Purchasing a pre-made pedestal can be expensive, but with some basic DIY skills, you can build your own for a fraction of the cost.
Building a homemade laundry pedestal is an easy woodworking project. With the right materials and tools, you can construct a sturdy pedestal customized to your space. We will outline the complete step-by-step process, from planning your design to assembling the final product. With our guidance, you will learn how to build a DIY laundry pedestal that fits your washer and dryer perfectly.
Planning Your Laundry Pedestal Design
Before starting construction, take some time to plan out your DIY laundry pedestal design. Consider the following factors to create a pedestal that meets your needs:
Measure Your Appliances
Take accurate measurements of your washer and dryer units. You will need the height, width, and depth of each appliance. Allow a few extra inches on all sides for ventilation and ease of installation. Write down these measurements to reference for your pedestal build.
Choose a Height
Standard pedestal heights are 12, 15, or 18 inches. The higher the pedestal, the less bending will be required when loading and unloading. Make sure to choose a height that aligns with your appliances. You want the top of the washer or dryer to be around waist height for optimal ergonomics.
Determine Weight Capacity
Factor in the weight of your washer and dryer combined. Add some extra capacity as a safety margin. A standard pedestal should safely hold 500-800 pounds without sagging or collapsing.
Decide on Material
Plywood is an affordable and easy material to work with. 3/4 inch plywood is sufficiently sturdy for most pedestal builds. For extra strength, go with multiple layers glued and screwed together. Solid wood can also be used but will cost more than plywood.
Choose a Style
Decide if you want an open or enclosed pedestal. An enclosed design has cabinet doors to conceal laundry products. An open style leaves the sides accessible for installing plumbing. Sketch your ideas to visualize the end design.
Account for Plumbing Needs
Factor in space in the back or sides for water and drain connections. The pedestal frame will need to accommodate these plumbing fixtures. This is especially important if your appliances have the connections in the rear.
Gather the Necessary Materials and Tools
Constructing a DIY laundry pedestal is a relatively easy beginner woodworking project. You don’t need fancy tools or expensive materials. Here is what you’ll need:
Materials
- 3/4 inch plywood – amount will vary based on your design
- Wood glue
- Wood screws – 1-5/8 inch drywall screws work well
- Sandpaper – 120 and 220 grit recommended
- Wood filler/putty
- Primer/paint or wood stain and sealer
Tools
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Drill and drill bits
- Tape measure
- Level
- Clamps
- Stud finder
- Safety equipment – eye protection, ear protection, etc.
Purchase quality plywood without knots or defects. Pre-cut sheets at the hardware store can save time and effort. Make sure to get water-resistant wood glue formulated for plywood.
Gather all materials and tools needed before starting to build your laundry pedestal frame. Having everything readily available will make the process smoother.
Cutting the Plywood Pieces
With your measurements and design in hand, you’re ready to start cutting the plywood pieces for the pedestal frame:
Top and Bottom
Cut 1 piece for the top and 1 piece for the bottom per your appliance dimensions. Add 2 inches on each side to allow room for securing the pieces together. Using a circular saw or jigsaw, cut the plywood to size.
Sides
Cut 2 pieces to the height of your desired pedestal, the width based on the depth of your appliances. For example, for a standard 27 inch deep washer, cut the sides 27 inches wide.
Back
Measure the width of your appliances and cut 1 piece to this width. The height should equal the sides. This piece can be omitted if your design is open in the back.
Shelves (optional)
If including enclosed cabinet storage, cut shelves to fit inside the pedestal frame. Cut openings for plumbing connections.
Trim Pieces
Cut several shorter strips to frame the front and spice up the look. Rip 2-3 inch strips at the width of your plywood.
Assembling the Pedestal Frame
With your plywood cut to size, you can assemble the basic box frame:
Secure the Top
Attach the top piece to the side pieces using wood glue and screws. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting. Ensure corners are square.
Attach the Bottom
Glue and screw the bottom piece to the side pieces, checking for square corners. Use clamps while the glue dries for maximum strength.
Add the Back
If including a back piece, glue and screw into the top, bottom and sides. Adjust as needed to fit around plumbing.
Install Interior Shelves
If designing an enclosed pedestal, attach any interior shelves using glue and screws. Cut openings for plumbing connections.
Attach Trim
For decoration, frame the front with trim pieces using finish nails or small screws. Install panels on the sides if desired.
Check the frame for squareness and ensure corners and joints are tight and sturdy. The basic box assembly is complete once all pieces are secured.
Securing the Pedestal Frame
To provide maximum stability, the laundry pedestal frame must be securely fastened in place:
Find Floor Studs
Use a stud finder to locate the floor studs where the pedestal will sit. Mark their locations for reference.
Pre-drill Holes
Using a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws, pre-drill holes through the bottom of the frame at each stud location.
Drive Screws into Studs
With a power drill, insert 3-4 inch wood screws through the pre-drilled holes into the floor studs below. This anchors the frame firmly in place.
Attach Cleats to Wall Studs
Using wood cleats or boards, screw into the wall studs behind where the pedestal will stand. Create a solid mounting surface.
Secure Frame to Cleats
Pre-drill and drive 2-3 inch screws through the rear of the pedestal frame into the wall cleats. This provides reinforced stability.
Check that the pedestal frame is now completely solid, stable, and unable to shift or rock. Proper anchoring is crucial to support the weight of your appliances.
Applying Finishing Touches
With construction complete, apply decorative finishing touches to your custom DIY laundry pedestal:
Fill Holes and Imperfections
Use wood filler or putty to fill any holes, cracks, or imperfections in the plywood. Allow to dry completely and sand smooth.
Sand Edges
Lightly sand all edges and surfaces with 120 grit sandpaper to prep for painting or staining.
Apply Primer and Paint
For a painted finish, apply 1-2 coats of high quality primer followed by 2 coats of interior latex paint. Allow proper drying time between coats.
Stain and Seal
For a natural wood look, apply gel stain in your desired color following the manufacturer’s directions. Allow to dry then apply a protective sealer/topcoat.
Add Doors and Hardware
Attach cabinet doors to the front using hinges. Install handles or knobs to complete the built-in look.
Seal Bottom Edge
Caulk along the bottom edge of the pedestal where it meets the floor to prevent moisture intrusion.
Once fully dry, your DIY laundry pedestal is ready for your washer and dryer installation. Admire your handiwork in creating this useful addition to your laundry room.
Installing the Washer and Dryer
With your homemade pedestal complete, it’s time to install your appliances:
Position Pedestal
Carefully move the pedestal frame into place in your laundry area. Make sure it is centered where the washer and dryer will sit.
Level Top Surface
Use shims if needed under the pedestal to level the top surface. This ensures your appliances will not rock.
Set Washer in Place
Carefully lift or slide the washing machine on top of the pedestal. Make sure it is centered front to back and stable.
Align Drain Hose
Insert the washer’s drain hose into the standpipe or drain port. Secure in place with a clamp.
Connect Water Supply
Attach the hot and cold water supply hoses to the corresponding faucets and washer hookups. Turn to test for leaks.
Install Dryer on Pedestal
Place the matching dryer on top of the washer, centered on the pedestal. Ensure it is level and make any venting connections.
Secure Appliances
Use mounting kits or braces to securely attach the washer and dryer to each other to prevent tipping or shifting.
Run Test Cycles
Run a test cycle on both appliances to verify proper pedestal clearance and confirm there are no leaks, obstructions, or stability issues.
Enjoy the ease of use and added storage space provided by your new custom laundry pedestal. Take pride in the money and effort saved by constructing this useful project yourself.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips and tricks for the best results on your DIY laundry pedestal project:
- Use quality plywood without defects or warping for maximum strength and durability.
- Pre-drill holes prior to driving screws to prevent splitting the wood.
- Ensure all measurements are precise and cuts are square for tight seam gaps.
- Clamp pieces tightly while glue dries to create solid, rigid joints.
- Apply painter’s tape around edges for a straight paint line with minimal mess.
- Seal raw wood edges with primer to prevent moisture absorption and swelling.
- Caulk gaps before painting for a seamless finish.
- Consider adding molding strips or decorative accents for visual appeal.
- Use metal corner braces or cleats for extra joint reinforcement.
- Anchor the pedestal frame securely to prevent any shifting or instability.
- Test appliances after installation to verify proper clearance and operation.
FAQ
How much weight can a DIY laundry pedestal hold?
A sturdy wooden pedestal reinforced with corner braces can safely support 500-800 lbs. Using multiple layers of 3/4 inch plywood secured together provides ample strength.
What is the standard height for a laundry pedestal?
Typical laundry pedestal heights are 12, 15 or 18 inches. Choose a height that allows the appliance tops to be around waist level for comfort and ease of use.
Is plywood strong enough to build a laundry pedestal?
Yes, good quality 3/4 inch plywood is an ideal material for pedestal construction. Using multiple glued and screwed layers provides tremendous load capacity.
Can you build a pedestal with an open back?
Absolutely. Simply omit the back plywood piece from the box frame assembly to leave the rear open for plumbing connections.
What is the best way to anchor the pedestal to the floor?
Using 3-4” wood screws driven into the floor studs provides an extremely secure pedestal mount. Attaching cleats to the wall is also recommended.
Should you attach the washer and dryer together?
Yes, use mounting kits or metal braces to securely attach the stacked units. This prevents tipping and provides lateral stability.
How much space should be allowed for venting in the pedestal?
Leave at least 2 inches of clearance around the back and sides of the appliances for proper air circulation and venting.
Conclusion
Creating your own DIY laundry pedestal allows you to save money while customizing to your space and needs. Follow our step-by-step guide during the planning, construction, finishing, and installation phases to achieve a high quality result. With some basic skills and the right materials, you can build a sturdy pedestal that provides the ideal height for your washer and dryer. Take pride in constructing a useful laundry room addition yourself that will provide convenience for years to come.