Building your own outdoor sectional can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. An outdoor sectional is perfect for creating a comfortable conversation area in your backyard, patio, or deck. With some basic skills, you can design and build your own custom sectional to suit your space and style. This comprehensive guide will walk you through all the steps for planning, preparing, constructing, and finishing your DIY outdoor sectional.
Choosing the Design and Materials
When starting your outdoor sectional project, one of the first decisions is choosing the overall shape and layout. Consider the size and shape of your outdoor area and how much seating you need. Some popular sectional configurations include:
- U-shaped
- L-shaped
- Rectangular
You’ll also want to decide on what material to build your sectional frame and cushions with. Good outdoor sectional options include:
- Wood: Cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine work well. Choose a naturally rot-resistant wood or use treated lumber.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and resistant to weather and rust.
- Wicker: Often used for decorative accents and tables. Not very sturdy for seating.
- Plastic Lumber: Made from recycled materials like HDPE or polystyrene. Won’t rot or corrode.
For cushions, outdoor fabrics like vinyl, acrylic, olefin, or polyester are waterproof and UV-resistant. Make sure the foam and fill materials are also designed for outdoor use.
Consider style factors like color, pattern, and accessories. You can customize and add personal flair to a DIY sectional with throw pillows, ottomans, and other decorative touches.
Planning the Sectional Design
Once you know the general size and shape of your sectional, sketch out a plan. Measure the space where you want to place it. Allow enough room for people to comfortably sit and move around it.
Figure out how many seats you need and the dimensions of each section. Standard seat depths are 18-21 inches, but you can adjust for comfort. If including an ottoman, make it about 24 inches deep and as long as a seat. Jot down the measurements of the seats, arms, backrests, and other components you’ll need to build.
Think about how the pieces will join together. Sectional connectors and brackets are available at hardware stores and home improvement centers. Or you can attach the sections with wood screws and waterproof wood glue.
Consider the height of your sectional. Around 17-18 inches from the floor to the top of the seat cushion is average. The backrest should be about 24 inches high for optimum comfort.
Make sure to measure twice and cut once when planning your outdoor sectional design! Having a detailed plan is crucial.
Preparing the Space and Supplies
Before starting construction, prep the patio or backyard area where you’ll be building and installing your sectional:
- Clear away any obstructions and debris.
- Level out the ground if needed.
- Decide on exact placement and mark the footprint.
Gather your building supplies and materials. For the sectional frame, you’ll need:
- Treated lumber, plastic lumber, or aluminum rods.
- Deck screws, bolts, nuts, and washers.
- Power tools – circular saw, drill, impact driver.
- Wood glue and silicone caulk.
- Sandpaper, clamps, Carpenter’s square, and level.
For the seat, back, and throw cushions, buy or make covers and gather:
- Outdoor cushion foam.
- Outdoor fabric, zippers, Velcro, piping.
- Thread, sewing machine, scissors for sewing.
Having all materials and tools prepared ahead of time will make the building process go smoothly.
Constructing the Sectional Frame
Once your design is planned out and supplies are ready, you can start constructing the sectional frame:
1. Cut the Legs
Cut the legs to length following your measurements. Use a power miter saw for quick, accurate cuts. Cut a slight angle on the bottom of each leg – this helps the sectional sit level on uneven surfaces.
2. Attach Side Boards and Cross Supports
Attach a side board along the top of each leg to connect them using deck screws. Check corners for square. Add any cross supports needed for stability – space them evenly.
3. Build the Seat Frame
Cut and attach front and side boards for the seat base. Make sure the top is completely level. Attach corner blocks and cross supports underneath for strength.
4. Attach the Backrest
Cut vertical boards for the backrest. Attach to back legs first, then attach to seat frame. Use weatherproof wood glue too for strong bonds at joints.
5. Add Armrests
Cut armrest boards to size. Attach with screws driven in at angles for stability. Make sure tops align evenly with seat and backrest.
6. Apply Finishing Touches
Add any additional decorative trim, back slats, drink holders or other extras to complete the frame. Sand corners and edges smooth.
Upholstering the Sectional
Upholstering involves adding cushioning and fabric coverings to your sectional frame:
1. Make the Seat Cushion
Cut a piece of high-density foam to size for the seat base. Cover tightly with batting and outdoor fabric. Secure the cover tightly underneath.
2. Sew the Backrest Cover
Cut fabric for the back, leaving seam allowances. Sew darts and pleats so it fits snugly over the back frame. Zippers make removable covers easy for cleaning.
3. Add Throw Pillows
Sew covers for throw pillows from your choice of complementary outdoor fabrics. Stuff firmly with an outdoor pillow insert or polyfill stuffing.
4. Attach Cushions
Place the seat cushion on the base and check the fit. Attach the back cover tightly over the backrest. Arrange throw pillows attractively.
Applying Protective Finishes
Sealing and protecting the wood is critical for outdoor furniture longevity.
- Lightly sand any rough spots on the wood frame.
- Apply water-repellent wood sealant or outdoor varnish.
- Let dry fully before placing outdoors.
- Reseal every 1-2 years for optimal weather resistance.
Consider purchasing waterproof cushion covers for easy removal and cleaning as needed.
Tips for Success Building an Outdoor Sectional
To ensure your DIY outdoor sectional turns out looking fabulous and lasting for years, keep these tips in mind:
- Select weather-resistant materials like treated lumber, aluminum, UV-protected fabrics.
- Follow building plans precisely for proper structural integrity.
- Allow wood glue, caulk and finishes to fully cure before use.
- Check for levelness and square corners during assembly.
- Attach components securely using exterior-rated screws and braces.
- Don’t skimp on supportive crossbeams and leg bracing.
- Upholster tightly without sagging, wrinkling or loose spots.
- Frequently maintain the wood sealant and inspect for any wear.
- Consider portable modular sectionals for easy seasonal storage.
- Add weatherproof covers and keep cushions dry when not in use.
Building your own outdoor sectional requires patience and diligence. But the result is furniture customized to your space and style – with the pride and satisfaction of creating it yourself! Relax in comfort knowing your handmade sectional was built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor Sectionals
What tools do I need to build an outdoor sectional?
You’ll need basic woodworking tools like a circular saw, jigsaw, power drill and driver, hammer, sandpaper, carpenter’s square, tape measure, and level. Have clamps, screws, glue, and fasteners on hand. And don’t forget safety gear like goggles, gloves, and a respiratory mask.
What is the best wood to use?
Opt for naturally weather-resistant woods like cedar, redwood, cypress, or treated lumber rated for outdoor use. Hardwoods like teak and Shorea are beautiful but expensive. Avoid soft woods like pine that deteriorate quickly unless treated.
What maintenance does an outdoor sectional require?
Annual upkeep is advised to keep your sectional looking its best. Reseal any wood areas. Wash fabric covers and cushions. Inspect for splinters, cracks, or sagging. Repair issues promptly to avoid further damage.
Should I make cushions removable?
Yes, removable cushion covers make cleaning, storage and replacement much simpler down the road. Use zippers or Velcro closures to keep them securely fastened.
How much weight will an outdoor sectional hold?
Properly constructed sectionals with strong, closely spaced corner bracing can handle 300-500 lbs depending on materials used. Bolted connections and rigid corner blocking add stability.
Can I use an indoor sectional outside?
Indoor sectionals are not designed to withstand sun, rain, snow and humidity. The wood and fabrics will quickly degrade. Only buy or build patio furniture rated for outdoor use.
Is it hard to get even angles on a sectional?
Getting perfect 90 degree angles takes patience and an adjustable square. Mark lines carefully when cutting. Dry fit pieces to double check angles before permanently joining.
How do I get a smooth finish on my DIY sectional?
Sand all wood surfaces thoroughly with increasingly finer grit sandpaper. Remove dust before applying varnish, paint or wood sealant. Apply finish in thin, even coats with light sanding between each.
Conclusion
Building your own outdoor sectional furniture is an immensely gratifying project for any DIYer. With proper planning, materials, and techniques, you can create a comfortable, durable, and stylish sectional customized precisely for your patio space. Just be sure to keep weather protection in mind during construction and upholstering. Annual maintenance will keep your handcrafted sectional looking as good as new for many seasons of fun and relaxation to come.
With the information in this guide, you now have all the essential steps and tips to successfully tackle constructing your own long-lasting outdoor sectional. Get ready to take your outdoor decor up a stylish notch while also enjoying the creativity and cost savings of a DIY backyard furniture project. Your family and friends will love gathering around your comfy new sectional!