Do It Yourself Patio Bench - Patiodesignplan

DIY Patio Bench

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, and what better way to do that than by relaxing on a comfortable patio bench? If you're looking for a way to add some extra seating to your outdoor space, consider building your own bench from scratch. It's a great project for beginners, and it can be completed in just a few hours.

Materials:

Two 2x6 cedar planks, 8 feet long
Two 2x4 cedar planks, 8 feet long
Two 2x4 cedar planks, 3 feet long
Eight 3-inch deck screws
Four 2-inch deck screws
Wood glue
Sandpaper
Paint or stain (optional)

Tools:

Drill
Circular saw or miter saw
Clamps
Level
Measuring tape
Pencil

Instructions:

1. Cut the lumber. Using a circular saw or miter saw, cut the 2x6 planks to the following lengths: two pieces at 6 feet long, and two pieces at 2 feet long. Cut the 2x4 planks to the following lengths: two pieces at 8 feet long, two pieces at 3 feet long, and four pieces at 2 feet long.

2. Assemble the frame. Lay the two 8-foot 2x4 planks flat on the ground, parallel to each other and spaced 24 inches apart. Apply wood glue to the ends of the two 3-foot 2x4 planks, and then attach them to the 8-foot planks, flush with the ends. Use two 3-inch deck screws to secure each joint.

3. Attach the seat slats. Space the six 2-foot 2x6 planks evenly across the frame, and then attach them with 2-inch deck screws. Make sure to countersink the screws so that they are flush with the surface of the wood.

4. Attach the back slats. Space the four 2-foot 2x4 planks evenly across the back of the bench, and then attach them with 2-inch deck screws. Again, make sure to countersink the screws.

5. Sand and finish. Once the bench is assembled, sand it smooth with sandpaper. You can then paint or stain the bench if desired.

Tips:

If you are using cedar for your bench, it is not necessary to seal it. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and decay.
If you are using a different type of wood, be sure to seal it with a water-resistant finish to protect it from the elements.
You can customize the size of your bench to fit your needs. Just be sure to adjust the measurements of the lumber accordingly.
If you are having trouble attaching the seat slats, use clamps to hold them in place while you are driving in the screws.