FAQ

What is the M Brace made of?

100% recycled steel. No new iron is mined from the earth to make the M Brace.

We are very proud of this, and would not have made the M Brace any other way!

Where is the M Brace made?

We make the M Brace right here in the USA! Currently our factory is in Galt, CA. Other US locations could be added as the need arises.

What sizes of wood should I use for my M Brace raised bed?

So many combinations work! Our favorite is 2”x8” lumber, stacked two on each side. Or stack one 2”x12” on top of a 2”x4”. How about stacking a 2”x4” between two 2”x6”s? You get the idea!

How long and wide can my raised beds be?

We had the M Brace engineered to hold up to 12’ on a side, but it is VERY difficult to find truly straight 12 foot boards, so we recommend using boards up to 10 feet long, and any width that complements that length. Keep in mind that you want to be able to reach the center of your raised bed to comfortably plant, weed and harvest.

Will the M Brace rust?

Yes! It was designed to do just that…becoming beautiful garden art in the process. We want to be sure that, many years from now, our M Braces (and Squiggle Stakes, and Edgers, and Mini’s) will not be clogging up landfills, but instead will be slowly transforming into their original element: iron.

Can the M Brace be put on uneven or unlevel ground?

No. The M Brace was designed to be built on a flat, level surface such as dirt, decomposed granite, sand, cement, grass or decking.

Can the M Brace be used on a hillside?

If you terrace the hillside into level sections the M Brace will work beautifully!

Can I move the M Brace from place to place?

Just slide the boards out of the brace, and put the braces and boards in their new location.  You can also change the length and width in the same way.

What is that hole in the cross brace?

For extra stability, you can put a gutter spike (large nail) in this hole, but it is not necessary.

Will the corners separate?

Depending on the conditions in your area, the wood will expand and contract with temperature changes and moisture.  Remember those old raised beds put together with bolts and nails and screws? They prevent the wood from moving, and this causes the wood to crack and twist as it tries to expand and contract against constraints. The M Brace was designed to hold the wood gently so it CAN move slightly. Also, because you are not piercing the wood, moisture cannot enter the board, so it should last longer.