How To Build Outdoor Bench Seating With Storage

How to Build Outdoor Bench Seating with Storage

Outdoor bench seating with storage is a great way to add both style and functionality to your outdoor space. It's perfect for seating guests, relaxing in the sun, or storing garden tools and other items. Best of all, it's relatively easy to build and can be customized to fit your needs and space.

Materials

To build an outdoor bench with storage, you will need the following materials:

Pressure-treated lumber (for the frame and legs)
Exterior-grade plywood (for the seat and back)
Galvanized screws
Wood glue
Stain or paint (optional)

Tools

You will also need the following tools:

Circular saw
Drill
Countersink bit
Clamps
Level

Instructions

1. Cut the lumber to the following lengths:

2 side pieces: 18" x 36"
2 front and back pieces: 18" x 72"
5 seat slats: 18" x 72"
2 back slats: 12" x 72"
2 legs: 30" x 4"
2 armrests: 24" x 4"

2. Assemble the frame by attaching the side pieces to the front and back pieces using wood glue and galvanized screws. Make sure the corners are square and the frame is level.

3. Attach the seat slats to the frame using wood glue and galvanized screws. Space the slats evenly apart.

4. Attach the back slats to the frame using wood glue and galvanized screws. Space the slats evenly apart.

5. Attach the legs to the frame using wood glue and galvanized screws. Make sure the legs are level and the bench is stable.

6. Attach the armrests to the frame using wood glue and galvanized screws. Make sure the armrests are level and the bench is comfortable to sit on.

7. Stain or paint the bench as desired. Allow the finish to dry completely before using the bench.

Tips

Here are a few tips for building your outdoor bench with storage:

Use pressure-treated lumber for the frame and legs to protect them from rot and decay.
Use galvanized screws to prevent rust.
Countersink the screws to create a smooth surface.
Stain or paint the bench to protect it from the elements and give it a finished look.