Choose the Right Materials
The materials you select need to withstand the elements year-round. Good options include:
- Cedar: Rot-resistant and durable softwood that’s easy to work with. Stains to a nice finish.
- Teak: A tropical hardwood known for its weather-resistance. Requires no finish.
- Redwood: Budget-friendly softwood that stands up well outdoors. Best with a protective finish.
- Aluminum: Won’t rust or corrode. Sturdy and low-maintenance.
- Wrought Iron: Heavier material that won’t blow over in wind. Can develop some surface rust.
- Synthetic lumber: Made from recycled plastics. No rotting or splintering.
Consider longevity, appearance, and your DIY skills when selecting materials. Cedar and redwood are beginner-friendly.
Choose a Simple Design
Opt for straightforward designs without too many complex cuts or joinery. Some ideas:
- Basic picnic table: Classic design with attached benches. Easy to build.
- Deck chair: Angled back and seat made from 2x4s or 2x6s. Fun for lounging.
- Planter box: Decorative and functional. Make any size you need.
- Porch swing: Cozy hangout for 2-3 people. Suspend from ceiling.
Find free plans online or design your own simple furniture. Focus on functionality rather than ornate details.
Allow Wood to Acclimate
Before building, let your lumber acclimate to the temperature and humidity levels outdoors. This helps prevent cracking and warping later on.
- Stack boards with spacers in between to allow air circulation
- Allow 1-2 weeks for acclimation before cutting and assembling
- Store under a roof or tarp to avoid direct sun and moisture
Once stacked, leave the boards alone. Don’t rush the process.
Use Proper Joinery
How you join wood together impacts the strength and longevity of furniture. Use these reliable techniques:
- Pocket holes: Drill angled holes to insert special screws. Creates tight joints.
- Butt joints: Simply glue and screw boards together end-to-end. Easy for beginners.
- Mortise and tenon: Notch one board end to insert into a hole on another board. Very sturdy.
- Dowels: Like mortise and tenon but uses wood pins instead of interlocking cuts.
Glue all joints for added holding power against winds and weight. Outdoor glue is a must.
Apply a Protective Finish
Unfinished wood will weather, split, and rot when exposed to sun, rain, and snow. Use these all-weather finishes:
- Exterior paint/stain: Offers UV protection and water resistance. Reapply annually.
- Varnish: Forms a protective coating while showing some wood grain. Use marine grade.
- Oil finish: Penetrates deep to repel moisture. Must recoat every 1-2 years.
- Sealer: Guards again damage from UV rays, mildew, and insects.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for best results. Maintain the finish regularly.
Check Local Building Codes
Most areas allow small DIY projects without a permit. But regulations vary, so check with your local zoning office before building large or permanent structures.
Key things to ask about:
- Setback requirements from property lines
- Allowable size and height limitations
- Whether a permit is needed
- Any rules about materials used
It’s better to check first rather than have to undo work later on. Being code-compliant will keep your local building inspector happy!
Building your own outdoor furniture takes some planning, patience, and basic DIY skills. But you can create exactly what you want while saving money. Just be sure to use proper techniques and weather-resistant materials. Then enjoy your hand-crafted furniture for many seasons to come!
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Outdoor Furniture
What kinds of tools do I need to build outdoor furniture?
Here are some essential tools for most outdoor furniture projects:
- Power drill and drill bits
- Circular saw or jig saw
- Hammer
- Level
- Tape measure
- Clamps
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Sandpaper
- Wood glue
- Pocket hole jig (if using pocket holes)
You may also find a miter saw, chisel set, hole saw, and staple gun useful. Always use sharp blades for smooth cuts.
What’s the best way to attach tabletop boards?
There are a few solid options:
- Pocket hole screws driven from underneath attach boards firmly. Conceals screws.
- Figure-8 fasteners allow for wood movement. Screw to underside of boards.
- Tongue and groove creates a tight seam as boards interlock. Glue joints.
- Biscuits are small wooden ovals to align and join planks. Use wood glue.
Avoid nailing tabletops alone—they won’t hold up over time. Choose an approach that creates a flush surface.
How do I make benches, chairs, and other seating?
Start by cutting 2×4 or 2×6 lumber to the desired lengths for the legs, seat, backrest, and supports. Use pocket holes and wood glue to attach.
Make sure the seat is deep and wide enough for comfort. Angle the backrest for better ergonomics. Add armrests for extra support if desired.
Use weather-resistant fasteners, hardware, and glue rated for outdoor use. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting.
What kind of lumber should I use? Pressure treated?
Pressure-treated wood contains preservatives for rot resistance. It’s a good choice for structural parts embedded in soil. Use it for posts, beams, or other parts touching the ground.
For the furniture itself, use naturally weather-resistant species like cedar, teak, or redwood. Avoid pressure-treated for tabletops or seating due to the chemicals used. Let all lumber acclimate before building.
How do I maintain and care for my outdoor furniture?
- Inspect regularly for splinters, cracks, and damage
- Sand down any rough spots
- Reapply protective finish annually or as needed
- Wash regularly with mild soap and water
- Store cushions/pillows when not in use
- Consider covers or storage shed to extend life
- Repair issues right away to avoid bigger problems
With proper materials, construction, and regular upkeep your outdoor furniture can endure the elements for many years of use.
Conclusion
Building DIY outdoor furniture takes planning, patience, and a passion for creating. Start with straight-forward designs, weather-resistant materials, and smart construction techniques. Consider comfort and aesthetics but keep the build process simple enough for your skill level. Protect and maintain your furniture well so it lasts for seasons of enjoyment in your yard. The satisfaction of furniture built with your own two hands makes the effort well worthwhile.