If you're remodeling your home and having hardwood floors installed, you might consider storing the extra pieces in case you need them to replace some of the planks in the future. While this is a good idea, you can use some of the pieces to incorporate the beauty of your floors into other areas. One idea is to use some of the wood to build a window planter box. This guide explains the easy steps to make one or more of these boxes.

Step 1: Gather Additional Supplies

Making this planter box is going to be the easiest thing you've ever done. But first, you'll need to gather these supplies and tools:

• a drill with a crew drill bit
• heavy plastic
• a circular saw
• a tape measure
• a pen or pencil
• scissors
• a staple gun with staples
• one bag of potting soil
• a few small plants

Step 2: Cut the Hardwood to Size

Measure the width and length of your windowsill. Mark this measurement with the pen or pencil and then cut the pieces to size. You'll need two longer pieces for the length, or the front and back, and two smaller ones for the width/sides of your box. Cut another piece the same size as the front and back pieces for the bottom.

Step 3: Attach the Hardwood Pieces

Hold one of the side pieces against the inside portion of the front piece. Drill a wood screw into the two pieces to hold them together. Attach the back to the side piece the same way. Repeat for the other side piece. Add additional screws to make your box sturdier. Then turn the box upside down and attach the bottom piece of wood with the screws.  

Step 4: Line the Planter Box

Turn the box over and lay the plastic down on the inside of the box. Cut the plastic with the scissors just below the top edge of the box. Fill the staple gun with staples and then staple the plastic to the inside edge of the box.

Step 5: Plant Your Plants

Open your bag of potting soil and pour a small layer in the box. Insert your plants and pour more potting soil around them to cover up the roots. Water and fertilize according to the plants' directions.

When you're finished building your window planter box and planting your favorite small plants, set the planter on the windowsill. You'll then have the beauty of your new hardwood floors incorporated with your windows. Ask a contractor like A B Cushing Mills Ltd for other ideas to use the remaining pieces of wood after your hardwood floor installation.