How to Make an Outdoor Deck Bench Seat

A simple slatted bench seat on the deck adds visual appeal and increases the functionality of the deck with a casual seating area. The basic bench design can make a single bench, or be extended to make benches that go around the deck. It can also be movable or built in, depending on your needs. A bench seat can be accessorized with a long box pillow when entertaining.

6 planks 2-by-6 lumber, 18 inches
12 planks 1-by-2 lumber, 15 inches
Drill
1 1/2-inch wood screw
4 planks 1-by-3 lumber, 72 inches
Wood finish
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Lay two pieces of 18-inch 2-by-6 lumber flat on a work surface with 3 inches between them. There should be 15 inches between the outer sides of the two planks.
- 2
  Sit two pieces of 15-inch 1-by-2 lumber across each end of the 18-inch planks, so that the ends of the 1-by-2 lumber pieces of flush with the outer edges of the 18-inch planks.
- 3
  Drill two pilot holes sized for 1 1/2-inch screws through each end of the 1-by-2 plank into the 18-inch inch planks underneath, then secure in place with 1 1/2-inch screws.
- 4
  Turn the 18-inch planks over and attach another two pieces of 1-by-2 on the other side. This is one leg unit for the deck bench seat. Repeat twice more, so you have three leg units.
- 5
  Stand the leg units upright, so that the 18-inch planks are vertical and spaced 30 inches apart.
- 6
  Center four planks of 72-inch 1-by-3 lumber across the tops of all three leg units. Space these planks an inch apart. The ends of these bench seat planks will have about 6 inches overhang on the last two leg units.
- 7
  Secure the bench seat slats in place with two 1 1/2-inch screws through the bench slats into each of the upper 1-by-2 planks on the leg units.
- 8
  Finish the deck bench seat with a wood finish of your choice. A UV protecting stain is a good option, as it will help protect the bench from sun damage.

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