How To Make An Outdoor Storage Bench

How to Make an Outdoor Storage Bench

An outdoor storage bench offers a practical and stylish way to organize your outdoor space while adding a comfortable seating option. This versatile piece of furniture can be used to store garden tools, cushions, or other outdoor essentials, keeping them neatly tucked away while enhancing the aesthetics of your patio, deck, or backyard. Building your own outdoor storage bench is a rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize the design and materials to perfectly match your needs and style. This guide will walk you through the steps of creating a sturdy and functional outdoor storage bench.

Choosing Materials and Design

The first step in building your outdoor storage bench is to decide on the materials and design that best suit your needs and aesthetic preferences. Consider the following factors:

Material:

Wood: Popular choices for outdoor benches include cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. These woods are naturally resistant to rot and insects, making them durable for outdoor use.
Metal: Metal benches can offer a modern and sleek look. Aluminum and steel are both durable and weather-resistant options.
Plastic: Plastic benches are budget-friendly and easy to maintain, but may not be as durable as wood or metal.

Design:

Style: Traditional, modern, rustic, or farmhouse styles can all be incorporated.
Size: Determine the length and width of the bench based on your space and storage needs.
Storage: Choose between a bench with a single storage compartment or multiple compartments. You can also consider a bench with drawers or a lift-up lid.

Building the Bench Frame

Once you have chosen your materials and design, you can start building the frame of your bench. This process involves assembling the base, sides, and back of the bench. Follow these steps:

Cut the lumber: Measure and cut the lumber for the base, sides, and back of the bench according to your chosen dimensions. Use a saw to make precise cuts.
Assemble the base: Attach the base rails using wood glue and screws. Make sure the joints are secure and the base is square.
Attach the sides: Attach the sides to the base using wood glue and screws. Ensure that the sides are even and parallel.
Attach the back: Attach the back panel to the sides and base using wood glue and screws. Make sure the back is securely attached and at the desired angle.

Creating the Storage Compartment

The next step involves building the storage compartment of the bench. This can be achieved in different ways depending on your design. Here are a few popular options:

Single compartment: A single compartment can be created by building a frame for the bottom of the storage area and attaching it to the sides of the bench.
Multiple compartments: Divide the storage space into multiple compartments by adding dividers. This can be useful for organizing different items.
Drawers: Install drawers on the underside of the bench for small items. This creates a more organized storage solution.
Lift-up lid: A lift-up lid can be created using hinges and a supporting mechanism. This allows easy access to the storage area.

Adding Finishing Touches

After building the frame and storage elements, the final step involves adding the finishing touches to your outdoor storage bench. This includes:

Sanding: Sand the entire bench using progressively finer sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
Painting or staining: Choose a weather-resistant paint or stain that complements your outdoor decor and protects the wood.
Adding hardware: Install hinges, handles, or other hardware as needed.
Adding a cushion: A cushion can add comfort and style to your bench. Choose a weather-resistant fabric and secure the cushion to the bench using ties or straps.