Photo: Egor Kamelev

How deep should a composting toilet be?

The pit is typically at least 3 meters (10 feet) deep and 1 m (3.2 feet) across. The distance from groundwater and surface water should be as large as possible to decrease the risk of groundwater pollution.

stivesorchard.co.uk - Compost toilets - St Ives Community Orchard CIC

How big is the average she shed?

She sheds come in a huge variety of shapes and sizes–anywhere from 6 ft. x 6 ft. to 12 ft. x 20 ft. (any bigger than that and you've got yourself a...

Last updated Dec 15, 2020

How much does it cost to add a toilet to a garage?

Adding a simple bathroom to your garage will put you down between $3,000 and $6,000. However, if you want added luxuries, or if you need new water...

Last updated Jun 7, 2022

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

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If you want to build your own compost toilet there are a few options.

A Tree bog

https://www.permaculture.co.uk/articles/loo-view-build-your-own-treebog

A Pit Latrine (aka longdrop)

A pit latrine compost toilet is the cheapest, simplest, easiest option and suitable for a small group of people to use. In this composting pit latrine design, when waste has filled the first pit, the latrine is moved over the second pit. The first pit converts to compost and can be emptied to fertilize fields. Credit: E4C Solutions Library A pit latrine generally consists of three major parts: a hole in the ground, a slab or floor with a small hole (aprox 25cm) with a toilet box / seat over it, and a shelter. The pit is typically at least 3 meters (10 feet) deep and 1 m (3.2 feet) across. The distance from groundwater and surface water should be as large as possible to decrease the risk of groundwater pollution. When the pit fills to within 0.5 meters (1.6 feet) of the top, it should be either emptied or a new pit constructed and the shelter moved or re-built at the new location. A basic pit latrine can be improved in a number of ways. One includes adding a ventilation pipe from the pit to above the structure. This improves airflow and decreases the smell of the toilet. It also can reduce flies when the top of the pipe is covered with mesh (usually made out of fiberglass). Other possible improvements include a floor constructed so fluid drains into the hole and a reinforcement of the upper part of the pit with bricks, blocks, or cement rings to improve stability. Here is an advanced pit latrine with urine divider. This twin-pit VIP latrine system offers a long-term solution as the compost can be dug out at some stage without having to move the whole toilet. The urine divider Ventilated Improved pit latrines receive excreta in the same fashion as those of the simple pit latrines, by direct deposition through a squat hole or a pedestal seat. The liquid part infiltrates into the surrounding soil and the faecal solid are digested anaerobically, gradually accumulating and eventually requiring emptying the pit for further use.

Importance of urine separators:

Too much liquid means the compost will go anaerobic (lacking oxygen) and different bacteria will result. These bacteria give off methane and other offensive smells and make the whole process very unpleasant! A urine separator is the answer, thereby diverting urine away from the deposit container. These are more easily used by women than men as they are generally designed for the sitting position. However men can aim more accurately but do have to be instructed/educated to do so! Either that or sit down to pee. The male pee issue is important as too “meny!” will result in anaerobic conditions, so signs/instructions/alternative urinal facilities are essential. It’s really a cultural thing which we all need to work at, especially the boys!

http://www.rotaloo.co.uk/

http://www.thunderboxes2go.co.uk/index.htm

Should I waterproof shed floor?

Waterproofing your shed floor is essential. If the floor isn't waterproof, the chances of dealing with rot and mold will significantly increase....

Last updated Feb 25, 2018

Can I put my washing machine in a shed?

However, can a shed store a functioning washing machine? While it may take a bit of work, the answer is yes! You can use your shed for washing...

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How long can a metal shed last?

alansfactoryoutlet.com - How Long Does a Metal Shed Last? - Alan's Factory Outlet

On average, you can expect a metal storage shed to last over 10 years without any noticeable damage or need for extensive maintenance. Some can last even as long as 25 years. So, if you want a long-lasting shed that requires little-to-no maintenance, a metal shed is the way to go. Metal sheds offer many benefits to consumers. With strong protection against harmful elements and a spacious interior for storage, metal sheds are structures you can depend on. Perhaps most importantly, however, is the longevity you can get out of one without much beyond any minimal and seasonal maintenance; an aspect that no other type of shed can match. Wooden sheds are aesthetically appealing but don’t last nearly as long as their metal counterparts without significant upkeep. The wood used in their construction is far more susceptible to mold, rot, and general wear and tear. This leads to less reliable protection for your tools, equipment, and other various items stored inside. Furthermore, this means you’ll have to replace your wooden shed more frequently than you would a metal one.

How long does it take to dismantle a shed?

As long you have the right tools and at least one person is helping to take the shed apart, dismantling the building shouldn't take you more than a...

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What is the cheapest way to do a roof?

While asphalt is the cheapest roofing material, there are 3 different types of asphalt shingles that vary in price and affect how much you'll spend...

Last updated Jul 29, 2018

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What is a good profit margin for woodworking?

The average markup rate in our area is about 40%. That means you would take your total cost and add 40% to give you the full price of your project....

Last updated Aug 6, 2022

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

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What size breaker do I need for a shed?

Most shed owners need a couple of outlets and some lights to see what they're doing. Typically the most amps you'll need are a little over 15 to...

Last updated Feb 19, 2019