Choose untreated wood such as cedar, pine, or plywood
Gather tools: saw, drill, drill bits, screws or nails, measuring tape, pencil, sandpaper, and a screwdriver or hammer
Select a birdhouse design suited to the bird species you want to attract
Cut the wood into front, back, sides, floor, and roof pieces
Drill an entrance hole sized for the target bird species
Drill a few small drainage holes in the floor
Drill small ventilation holes near the top of the sides
Sand all cut edges to remove splinters
Assemble the sides, front, back, and floor using screws or nails
Attach the roof so it overlaps slightly to keep out rain
Leave the front or roof removable for cleaning
Avoid using paint or stain inside the birdhouse
Paint or seal only the outside with non-toxic, weather-safe finish if desired
Mount the birdhouse securely on a post, tree, or wall
Place it at the proper height for the bird species
Position the entrance away from strong wind and direct afternoon sun
Clean the birdhouse after each nesting season