LUSITANO RETREAT — P21 BUILD NOTES
Use only with the main pallet guide and material intake checks. Illustrative dimensions are not a structural rating.

MEASUREMENTS
1. Measure the existing bench width and approved back attachment points.
2. Illustrative low back: 600 × 300 mm, only where the existing bench and exposure suit it.

CUT LIST / COMPONENTS
1. Accepted slats cut to measured back width.
2. Two compatible upright supports or existing bench-back members.
3. Light hand-tool hooks and connections selected for the bench and tool use.

TOOLS
1. Tape measure, pencil and square; clamps and a stable cutting support
2. Metal detector, suitable saw and drill with timber bits; dust extraction and PPE appropriate to the operation
3. Sanding block, straightedge and the selected connection manufacturer’s installation tools

ASSEMBLY
1. Inspect the existing potting bench and identify suitable back supports. Choose a low back within its assessed stability arrangement, rather than adding a tall screen that substantially increases wind exposure.
2. Lay the intended light hand tools on paper and mark the working surface below them. Leave clearance for pot filling, watering and cleaning so tool handles cannot obstruct the normal bench work.
3. Measure and cut the decorative slats to fit the identified supports. Remove defective sections, ease the edges and retain the timber batch reference on each concealed face for later replacement.
4. Dry-fit the slats on the bench with gaps suited to the intended arrangement. Mark fixing centres over sound support material and select screws for the actual combined thickness and outdoor exposure.
5. Attach the slats to the compatible supports without relying on old pallet nails. Keep the assembly low and inspect the attachment from behind before positioning tools or covering it with labels.
6. Mark hook positions around the actual tools and fit hooks using their intended mounting holes. Keep heavy watering cans and loaded planters off the back unless they have a separately reviewed support arrangement.
7. Return one light hand tool at a time and check it is retained with its sharp edge covered. Try normal potting motions and move any hook that catches sleeves or restricts access.
8. Clean the work area and prevent wet compost collecting in the new joints. Record the hook layout and check timber, fixings and bench stability after weather exposure or any change in the stored tools.

FINISH AND CARE
1. Sand hand-contact surfaces and ease exposed edges; retain readable batch identification on a concealed face.
2. Use a finish selected for the actual exposure, following its preparation, coat and cure instructions; treat cut ends as specified.

COMPLETION CHECKS
1. Light tools only; no tall wind screen or heavy hanging planters.
2. Working surface remains cleanable and sharp tools have protected edges.

Guide: https://lusitanoretreat.com/build-guides/building-with-pallets/#project-p21