How To Build A Outdoor Bench Seat With Storage

An outdoor bench seat with storage is a great way to add extra seating and storage to your patio or deck. It's a relatively easy project to build, and it can be customized to fit your specific needs. Here are the steps on how to build an outdoor bench seat with storage:

1. Gather your materials

You will need the following materials to build an outdoor bench seat with storage:

2x6 cedar planks (or other durable wood)
2x4 cedar planks
1x6 cedar planks
1/2-inch plywood
3-inch deck screws
2-inch deck screws
Wood glue
Clamps
Miter saw
Drill
Circular saw
Level
Measuring tape
Safety glasses
Dust mask

2. Cut the wood

The first step is to cut the wood to the following dimensions:

2x6 cedar planks: 2 pieces at 6 feet long, 2 pieces at 3 feet long
2x4 cedar planks: 2 pieces at 6 feet long, 2 pieces at 1 foot long
1x6 cedar planks: 6 pieces at 6 feet long
1/2-inch plywood: 1 piece at 3 feet x 6 feet

3. Assemble the frame

Begin by assembling the frame of the bench seat. Attach the 2x6 cedar planks to the 2x4 cedar planks using 3-inch deck screws. Make sure the 2x6 cedar planks are flush with the edges of the 2x4 cedar planks. Repeat this step to create the other two sides of the frame.

4. Attach the seat slats

Next, attach the 1x6 cedar planks to the top of the frame using 2-inch deck screws. Space the seat slats evenly apart, about 1 inch apart.

5. Attach the plywood

Cut the 1/2-inch plywood to fit the inside of the frame. Attach the plywood to the frame using wood glue and 1-inch deck screws. Make sure the plywood is flush with the edges of the frame.

6. Attach the back

Cut the remaining 2x6 cedar planks to the desired height of the back. Attach the 2x6 cedar planks to the back of the frame using 3-inch deck screws. Make sure the 2x6 cedar planks are flush with the edges of the frame.

7. Finish the bench seat

Finally, finish the bench seat by sanding the wood and applying a stain or paint. You can also add cushions or pillows to make the bench seat more comfortable.