Building an outdoor bench with a backrest can be a fun and rewarding DIY woodworking project. With some basic tools and materials, you can create a customized bench that will look great on your patio, deck, or in your yard. Follow these step-by-step instructions to learn how to build your own sturdy outdoor bench from scratch.
Introduction
Having an outdoor bench is a great way to add seating to your yard or garden. Benches with backs provide more comfort and support compared to backless benches. They allow you to sit back and relax while enjoying the outdoors.
Building your own bench allows you to customize the size, style, and look to perfectly suit your needs. It can also be a cost-effective alternative to buying a pre-made bench. With a some basic carpentry skills and tools, you can create a gorgeous, high-quality bench made exactly how you envision it.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about how to build an outdoor bench with a backrest. Below are some of the topics we will discuss:
- Benefits of building your own outdoor bench
- Planning your bench design and size
- Selecting the best materials for durability
- Step-by-step instructions for constructing the bench
- Tips for adding decorative details and finishing touches
- Maintenance tips for caring for your finished bench
Equipped with these details, you will have the knowledge to DIY a bench that will look beautiful and stand up to outdoor elements for years to come. Let’s get started!
Benefits of Building Your Own Outdoor Bench
Constructing your own outdoor bench has many advantages over purchasing a pre-made one:
Customization
Building it yourself allows you to customize the size, shape, style, and look of the bench. You can stain or paint it any color you like and add decorative carvings, patterns or other unique details. This allows the bench to complement your home’s style and landscape.
Durability
You can select weather-resistant wood and high-quality construction methods to ensure your DIY bench holds up well outdoors. Store-bought benches may use cheaper materials prone to rotting, splitting or deteriorating.
Cost Savings
In most cases, you can build an outdoor bench for less money than buying a comparable pre-made bench. Even using high-grade lumber, the DIY version is generally cheaper.
Sense of Accomplishment
Taking on the project from start to finish lets you use your creativity and carpentry skills. The end result is something you can take pride in for years to come.
As long as you use proper materials and techniques, a homemade outdoor bench can be equally or more durable than a store-bought option. Keep reading to learn how to build one successfully.
Planning Your Outdoor Bench Design
Before starting construction, take time to plan out your bench design. This important step will help the project go smoothly and ensure you end up with a bench you’ll love. Here are some key factors to consider:
Bench Size
Think about where the bench will go and how much seating space you need. Typical bench sizes range from 4-8 feet long. Standard seat height is 18-20 inches. The seat should be deep enough for comfort – 12-16 inches is ideal.
Consider if you want room for just two people, or space to seat a larger group. Measure the area where it will go to visualize the perfect proportions.
Bench Style
There are a few main outdoor bench styles to choose from:
- Traditional garden bench – Straight back and seat, four legs, may have armrests. Simple but classic.
- Rustic wood bench – Often L-shaped with a backrest on just one side. Made from unfinished logs or distressed wood.
- Curved bench – A gently curved seat and/or backrest for a softer look.
- Stone/concrete bench – Bench made from solid stone, concrete, or cinder blocks for ultra durability.
Select the style that best fits your home’s existing outdoor furniture and landscaping aesthetics.
Materials
Redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated pine are common wood choices for outdoor benches because they resist rot, insects, and moisture damage. Teak is also very durable but more expensive.
The legs can be wood, or made from wrought iron, steel, aluminum, etc. This affects the overall look and weight.
Backrest Design
A simple straight backrest offers good support. For a more relaxed feel, consider a contoured backrest with slight curves. You can also just have a backrest across part of the bench if you prefer.
Armrests
Armrests provide a place to rest your arms, but do take up more room. Decide if having armrests on one or both sides is important for your needs.
Decorative Touches
Think about any decorative accents you want to include, like carved details, mosaic tile inlays, attached planters, or custom paint/stain colors. This adds personality!
Selecting Materials for a Durable Outdoor Bench
Choosing the right materials is key to getting a bench that stands the test of time through all types of weather. Here are some tips:
Wood Type
Opt for naturally weather-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, cypress, or teak. Avoid softwoods like pine which deteriorate quickly. Pressure-treated lumber is an affordable option for the legs and support boards.
Lumber Grade
Select dimensional lumbar that is graded as “outdoor” or “construction”. These are sturdier than lower grades. Choose boards that are straight and free of large knots.
Hardware
Use exterior-grade, corrosion-resistant hardware. Galvanized, stainless steel, or weather-resistant coated screws and bolts are best. Avoid plain steel.
Fasteners
In addition to weatherproof screws and bolts, structural connectors like joist hangers and post anchors create super-solid joins between pieces.
Finish
A clear wood sealer, penetrating oil, or protective stain will shield the wood from moisture damage. Reapply yearly.
Following these guidelines will result in a sturdy, durable bench perfect for withstanding the elements.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Building an Outdoor Bench
Now let’s dive into the step-by-step process for constructing your own outdoor bench:
Tools and Materials Needed
First, ensure you have the necessary tools and materials on hand before starting:
Tools
- Power drill and drill bits
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Level
- Tape measure and pencil
- Sander
- Safety equipment (glasses, gloves, etc)
Materials
- 2x4s for the inner supports
- 4x4s for the legs
- Outdoor lumber for seat and backrest boards
- Exterior wood screws and bolts
- Weatherproof wood glue
- Exterior wood finish/sealer
- Concrete for securing legs (optional)
Cutting the Leg Pieces
- Measure and mark where you will cut your 4×4 leg pieces. Cut them to all be the same length using a power miter or circular saw.
- On each leg, use a circular saw to slice down the width about 1-2 inches on the end that will attach to the seat frame. This notch will hold the frame in place.
Assembling the Seat Frame
- Cut 2×4 lumber to size for the front, back, and side pieces of the inner seat frame.
- Arrange the pieces on a flat surface and use exterior wood screws to construct a rectangular frame to the specifications of your bench seat size.
- Make sure the frame is square by measuring the diagonals – they should be equal. Adjust if needed until the frame is square.
Attaching the Seat Boards
- Cut outdoor lumber to the desired width and length for your seat boards. Redwood or cedar 1×6 boards work well.
- Place the boards evenly spaced across the top of the seat frame. Use exterior wood glue and screws to attach and sandwich them between the front and back 2x4s.
- Flip the frame over and attach boards to the underside for stability. Let dry completely.
Assembling the Bench
- Turn the leg pieces upside down and place the seat frame on top, nestling it into the notches cut into the leg pieces.
- Secure using corrosion-resistant bolts and washers through predrilled holes.
- Flip bench right-side up. Use a level to adjust legs so the seat sits evenly.
- Mark spots for concrete footings if desired. Mix and pour concrete and let cure fully.
Adding the Backrest
- For the backrest, cut and join 2×4 lumber into a frame slightly wider than the seat frame.
- Use exterior glue and screws to attach backrest boards. Cut an angled notch on the bottom to fit over seat frame.
- Position backrest so the angles match up with the seat. Bolt into place through predrilled holes.
- Attach decorative side panels between the front legs if desired, using glue and screws.
- Sand any rough areas. Apply desired finish. Let dry fully before using bench.
- Admire your handiwork and relax on your new sturdy, customized outdoor bench!
Following these steps will yield a handsome and durable backyard bench. Don’t be afraid to tweak the design to match your own vision.
Next we will cover some ideas for customizing your bench even further.
Customizing Your Outdoor Bench
One benefit of DIY projects is the ability to customize your creation. There are endless options for adding personal flair to make your bench unique. Here are some ideas:
Add Decorative Wood Accents
- Carve a decorative pattern into the front legs or attach separate wood carvings
- Incorporate contrasting wood colors and textures
- Add routed edges or distress the wood for a rustic appearance
Choose Fun Paint Colors
- Paint the bench a bright, cheerful hue like sunshine yellow or sea blue
- Try a playful ombre or geometric paint pattern
- Paint words, shapes or designs using stencils
Inlay Tiles or Mosaic Pieces
- Inlay mosaic tiles or broken pottery shards into the backrest
- Create a tiled accent stripe or geometric design on the seat edge
Attach Planters or Flower Boxes
- Affix wooden planter boxes to the legs or edges of the bench
- Use iron flower pots or urns as decorative accents
Add Cushions
- Make or purchase weather-resistant seat and back cushions
- Select colorful fabric and ties to coordinate with surroundings
Let your creativity run wild! Part of the reward of DIY projects is customizing something exactly how you envision it.
Applying Protective Finishes
The final step is applying a protective finish to shield the wood from outdoor elements and keep your bench looking its best. Here are some top options:
Penetrating Wood Oil
Penetrating oils are absorbed into the wood grain rather than forming a surface coat. They resist moisture and provide protection while showcasing the wood’s natural color and texture. Reapply annually.
Spar Urethane
This marine-grade polyurethane forms a durable protective barrier ideal for outdoor projects. It repels UV rays and water. Apply 2-3 coats, sanding lightly between each.
Exterior Wood Stain
Stains add color while protecting the wood. A sem-transparent stain provides some protection while allowing the grain to show. Solid stains offer more coverage if you want a bold, opaque color. Reapply every 1-2 years.
Paint or Clear Coat
For a painted bench, use exterior primer and paint. A clear coat over paint protects the surface. Sand lightly and recoat the paint every couple years.
Proper finishing protects your wood from cupping, cracking, rotting, and graying from sun exposure. So don’t skip this important step! Having to fully replace wood after just a couple years defeats the purpose of building something to last.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Outdoor Bench
To keep your handcrafted bench looking its best for as long as possible:
- Inspect the wood yearly and re-apply protective finish if needed
- Wash periodically with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime
- Check hardware for loose screws or bolts that need tightening
- Repair any cracks in concrete footings
- Consider moving the bench to a covered area or indoor storage during harsh winters
- Remove cushions when not in use and store indoors
- Watch for signs of rot, splintering or pest damage and address any issues right away
With proper construction methods and regular upkeep, a DIY wood bench can realistically last 5-10 years outdoors, often longer. Building it yourself allows you to take pride in creating an enduring piece for your landscape.
Now that you know how to skillfully construct an outdoor bench tailored exactly for your space, it’s time to get started! We hope these detailed steps give you the knowledge needed to complete this rewarding DIY project.
The beauty of building it yourself is that you can customize the size, wood type, color, and decorative accents to make a bench that’s perfectly suited to your style. Be sure to select durable, weather-resistant materials to withstand the elements. Follow the construction steps carefully for a stable, level, and long-lasting finished product.
Happy building, and enjoy relaxing on your handcrafted outdoor bench for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions About Building an Outdoor Bench
What type of wood is best for an outdoor bench?
The best woods are naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. Good choices include cedar, redwood, cypress, and teak. Pressure-treated pine is a more affordable option for hidden structural parts.
What tools do I need to build a bench?
Essential tools include a power drill, circular saw or miter saw, tape measure, level, sander, screwdriver, safety equipment, and clamps. Other helpful tools are a jigsaw, router, and chisels.
How deep should the seat be?
For comfortable seating, a depth of 12-16 inches is ideal. You want ample room for people to sit back against the backrest without feeling cramped or precarious.
How high should the seat be from the ground?
The typical bench seat height is around 18-20 inches. This allows most people to comfortably place their feet flat on the ground when seated.
How do I attach the legs securely?
Notching the legs to cradle the seat frame, combined with through-bolts and washers, creates a strong connection. For extra stability, concrete footings anchor the legs in place.
Should I seal, stain or paint the wood?
Yes, applying some kind of protective finish prevents moisture damage, rotting, and discoloration. Oil-based penetrating sealers work well for a natural wood look.
How do I prevent the bench from wobbling?
Check that the frame is perfectly square and the legs are equal lengths. Shim underneath legs if needed to stabilize on uneven ground. Crossbracing also helps prevent wobbling.
What can I use if I don’t have power tools?
Careful work with manual carpentry tools will get the job done. You’ll need hand saws, drills, hammers, nails, sandpaper, clamps, and elbow grease!
How can I add cushions to my bench?
Look for outdoor-rated seat cushions in a matching shape and size. Use weatherproof fabric with ties to secure the cushion to the bench so it won’t blow away.
I hope these detailed instructions give you the confidence to DIY your own customized, high-quality outdoor bench! Let me know if you have any other questions.