How to Build a Lock Box

The Box

• 1

  Measure and cut a 15 inch length of 1-inch-by-12-inch lumber then sand smooth to make the base of the lock box.

• 2

  Measure and cut two 15 inch lengths of aluminum brackets. Fit a 1/4-inch bit for metal to the drill and drill holes 3 inches apart on both sides of the brackets

• 3

  Lay the brackets on top of the cut wood, aligning along the outside long edges and screw in place, using 1/4-inch screws that are 1/2 inch long.

• 4

  Measure the space between the brackets on the short edge of the wood and cut aluminum brackets to fit, drilling holes as before, 3 inches apart, on both sides of the brackets. Lay in place on top of the box base and along the outside edges. Screw in place.

• 5

  Cut two 12 inch lengths of the 1-inch-by-12-inch lumber and sand smooth. Put one outside the end of the lock box base, lining it up along the edges and screw in place. Repeat at the other end to complete the ends of the lock box.

• 6

  Measure the distance from the top of the aluminum bracket to the top of each end piece. Cut four pieces of aluminum bracket to this length and drill holes 3 inches apart on both sides. Fit on of the brackets against the edge of one end piece, on the inside of the box, and screw in place. Repeat with the other brackets on the edges of the end pieces.

• 7

  Cut two 16 inch lengths of 1-inch-by-12-inch lumber and sand. Fit one on the pieces in place against the side of the lock box so that it’s butted against the base and end pieces. Secure in place with screws through the holes in the aluminum brackets. Repeat for the other side to complete the basic box.

Completing the Box

• 8

  Measure the outside dimensions of the top of the box and cut a wood from a 1-inch-by-15-inch piece of lumber to fit. Set the lid on top of the box with all the edges square against the box.

• 9

  Hold one of the hinges against what will be the back of the box, where the lid joins the box, and mark the holes for the screws. Repeat with two other hinges, each 2 inches in from an end, then screw the hinges in places on both box and lid. Open and close the lid to check it moves freely.

• 10

  Fit the hasp for the padlock over the lid and front of the box and screw in place. Insert a padlock into the hasp and lock the box.