How to Build a Deck Bench
A deck bench is a long seat meant to be used by two or more people. It not only serves as a beautifying addition to your deck, but also functions as additional seating when you need to entertain guests. Deck benches can be made from scratch or from easy-to-install bracket kits.
Required Materials
- cedar wood
- 3” (60) deck screws and ½” (16) deck screws
Required Tools
- drill
- circular saw
Instructions
Note: Measurements can be adjusted to the size requirements of your own deck.
- Cutting the Frame and Seat - You will need to cut pieces of wood as follows: 2 pieces of 1 1/2 x 3 ½ x 42” for sides, 2 pieces of 1 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 15 for ends, 1 slat of 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 45”, 2 stretchers of 1 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 15”, 4 braces of 1 1/2 x 5 1/2 x 15” and 4 legs of 3 1/2 x 3 1/2 x 13”.
- Constructing the Frame - Fix the end pieces between the side pieces by drilling 3” deck screws through the sides. Now fasten the slat to the frame by drilling 3” deck screws through both ends.
- Making the Pedestal - Face the slat upside down and mark the outline of the stretchers by measuring 5” and 3 ½” from the inner side of both end pieces. Now drill the stretchers into the slat using ½” deck screws. The braces will help to hold the legs firmly in position.
- Shaping the Braces – On each end, draw a 1 ½” marked line at the top corner and a 1 ½” marked line at the bottom corner. Cut through these marks one at a time at both ends. Do the same for each brace to shape its ends.
- Assembling the Deck Bench - Fix a brace to each side of the stretchers with 3” screws. Fix each leg to the braces on the sides touching the bench using 3” screws.
- Finish - Rub sandpaper over the bench and legs to a smooth surface and paint the deck bench to a desired color.
Tips and Warnings
- Make sure that the surface is smooth enough to prevent injury.
- Cover the screws with paint and fill any uncovered screw holes with wood putty.
- Use a low deck bench for low-level decks. If you have a high-level deck, make sure to use railings. The walls of your deck should be high enough that children cannot climb over using the bench.
