How to attach a solid wood surface to a pony wall, CS Woods style

The most versatile wall in the house is a PONY WALL. Topped with a gorgeous solid wood surface from CS Woods, we can turn a humdrum room divider into a stunning bar top, kitchen island or counter, entry space, or so many other useful surfaces!  After years of working on hundreds of walls, we have developed our favorite design and techniques that make for the most secure, strongest and most elegant way to build half walls to support heavy surfaces. 

Pony walls have a number o f advantages. They effectively divide open-concept spaces without completely closing them off. This is particularly useful in creating distinct zones within a room. The space that a pony wall takes up can add a unique architectural element to a room often serving as a focal point, drawing attention to a specific area. For CS Woods, it is particularly important that a builder takes the time and makes the effort to build a wall that can support countertops or other structural elements.  We want to maximize functionality while bringing in an important decorative element.  With the right wood, the right half wall and the right installation, you will enhance the functionality and aesthetics of a space.  What are the differences between common pony wall construction and CS Woods’ methods you ask? Let’s dig into the best way to secure a solid wood surface to a pony wall and how to build that wall. Follow along in our process to find out!

Now let’s talk about mounting a solid wood surface like a bar top to your new pony wall! The main differences between a basic pony wall and a CS Woods pony wall is we recommend a 2" x 6" stud wall and a double header. This will ensure that the wall can bear the weight of an overhanging solid wood surface as well as whatever you decide to put on it! Below, we will talk you through the materials and show you the steps we go through to install the surface, as well as how to build the wall itself. 

How to secure a solid wood surface to a pony wall

Materials:

• Solid wood surface with predrilled holes spaced appropriately for the metal brackets
• Metal brackets with holes to secure both the front and back of the solid wood surface as well as the top plate of the pony wall.
• ½ inch ply board for spaces and shimming in between brackets
• 4” long bolts with washers and nuts to tie down brackets
• 4” long bolts with insert nuts to tie down the back side of the solid wood surface to the back side of the double top plate
• ⅜” short bolts with insert nuts to tie down the front of the solid wood surface to the bracket
• Countersink for bolt heads
• Drill
  

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Plan, Measure, Drill

• Check for any obstacles in your pony wall like pipes or electrical wiring and adjust accordingly. 
• Determine the desired distance between the brackets.
• Mark and then pre drill 3/8” holes in your solid wood surface to mount to the front and the back of the bracket.
• Mark and then pre drill countersink holes for insert nuts in the top plate of the pony wall where you will attach the back of the bracket as well as the back of the solid wood surface.
• Install insert nuts in the solid wood surface
  2. Anchor the Brackets and Shim

• Using the pre drilled holes, attach the brackets to the top plate of the pony wall
• Cut and screw down ½ inch shim pieces between brackets to bring up the surface level of the wall to the top of the brackets
  
  
  3. Mount the Solid Wood Surface to Pony Wall

• Using long bolts and nuts, mount the brackets to the pony wall
• Using long bolts and insert nuts, attach the solid wood surface to the wall
• Using short bolt and insert nuts, attach the solid wood surface to the front of the brackets.
  
  4. Install Drywall or Other Covering

• Cut the drywall or other wall covering to fit the wall.
• Attach the covering to the studs using screws.
• Tape and mud the joints and screw holes.
• Sand the mudded areas smooth.
  
  5. Finish the Wall

• Paint or wallpaper the wall to match your desired aesthetic.
• Add trim or molding to the top of the wall for a finished look.
  

Tips:

• Wear safety gear like gloves and goggles when working with power tools.
• Take your time and ensure accurate measurements to avoid mistakes.
• If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional.

And you’ve got yourself a strong pony wall with a gorgeous solid wood surface! This process is perfect for kitchen island extensions, bar tops or any other surface you want to stay put. This process is also adaptable to various styles including waterfalls and corner counters. 

Here's a breakdown of the steps involved in building a CS Woods style pony wall:

Materials for the Pony Wall:

• Lumber for top and bottom plates - CS Woods recommends 2” x 6”s
• Lumber for studs - CS Woods recommends 2” x 6”s
• Drywall or other wall covering
• Screws and nails
• Tape measure
• Level
• Stud finder
• Saw
• Drill

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Plan and Measure
• Determine the desired height and length of the pony wall.
• Mark the wall location on the floor and ceiling.
• Check for any obstacles like pipes or electrical wiring.
  
  
2. Cut the Framing
• Cut two top plates and a bottom plate to the desired length.
• Cut the studs to the height of the wall, minus a small gap for the top plate.
• Mark stud locations on the plates, typically 16 inches apart.
  
  
3. Assemble the Frame
• Lay the bottom plate on the floor and attach the studs to it using screws or nails.
• Place the top plate on the studs and secure it in place.
  
  
4. Anchor the Wall
• Anchor the bottom plate to the floor using screws or construction adhesive.
• If the wall is against another wall, attach it to the existing wall studs.
  
  
5. Plumb and Square the Wall
• Use a level to ensure the wall is plumb (vertical) and square (corners at 90 degrees).
• Adjust the wall as needed by shimming or trimming the studs.
  

Tips:

• Wear safety gear like gloves and goggles when working with power tools.
• Take your time and ensure accurate measurements to avoid mistakes.
• If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional.

By carefully following these steps and considering the tips, you can successfully build a pony wall that is ready to support a solid wood surface. 

Ready to top your wall with a gorgeous slab? CS Woods will help you find exactly the right solid wood surface for your space. We have an open warehouse full of Rocky Mountain dry, ready to go pieces in a wide variety of species, shapes and sizes. We can help you match plans, template a space, level, or even install it for you!