Jim,
I have a friend that is getting ready to build an outbuilding in his backyard. It is basically going to be a finished “shed.” We were talking about how to harden it, and I made the suggestion to drill half inch holes through the [vertical] 2x4s and run rebar through them [horizontally]. This would at least make it a little harder for someone to use a chainsaw on the walls. Is this an old idea, or did I come up with something new? – Gung Ho
JWR Replies: That is a great idea! The expense of buying enough rebar to equip a shed as you describe is quite modest. I assume the North American wood frame construction standard of placing 2×4 vertical studs on 18 centers, and supplementing with horizontal pieces of rebar at 18″ intervals inside the exterior walls. Result: You will ruin the day of anyone that tries to chain saw their way in. However, keep in mind that it will still leave the doors and windows as “weakest links.” Thanks again for sending your creative ideas!