Q&A for How to Make an Outhouse

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  • Question
    How much would it cost, approximately?
    Community Answer
    I just made one last weekend, 4x4x8 single pitch roof, the materials were around $300.
  • Question
    Can I use a 55 gallon drum to line the hole?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can use a 55-gallon drum and even service it with a "Porta-Potty" unit. Keep in mind that the drum will eventually rust through.
  • Question
    Can I make my outhouse with a receptacle that can be slid out and emptied?
    Community Answer
    Sure. Just remember to cover the bottom of the receptacle with straw or sawdust before putting it back, so it will be easy to empty again.
  • Question
    Can I convert a small greenhouse with a dirt floor into an outhouse?
    Community Answer
    Yes, as long as you can meet all the requirements in this article.
  • Question
    How deep should the hole be?
    Community Answer
    Use a pit at least three feet deep.
  • Question
    How can I convert a commercial portable toilet into an esthetic-looking outhouse that is rodent resistant?
    Community Answer
    First of all you want sturdy walls so picking a material like wood is not only stable but also gives you the opportunities for aesthetics as well. For rodent proof, it depends on where the outhouse is going- somewhere near bird food, for example, could attract rodents, so that would not be ideal. Also, you can set cage traps if you don’t want to hurt the rodents.
  • Question
    Should any material like drainage rock be put into the bottom of the hole?
    Community Answer
    You don’t have to put the material in, but if you don’t, you’ll have to be emptying and cleaning it out a lot more often, so a draining material would be helpful.
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