How to Build an Outdoor Park Bench

Select a level site to build the bench. The area needs to be flat with a preexisting foundation such as concrete.

Spread a thin layer of mortar on the ground, about 16 by 8 inches wide, for the first leg. Stack four bricks on top of this layer, side by side. Sandwich the bricks tightly together with mortar. Spread another layer of mortar on top of these four bricks.

Place four more bricks on top of the other bricks. Arrange the bricks in a different pattern than the previous row. This will increase the stability of the leg. Again, sandwich the bricks tightly together with mortar. Repeat this process until the brick leg is six rows high. Use a level to make sure each row is level. Use the handle of the trowel to pack the bricks down, if needed.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 to create another leg for the park bench. Build the second leg about 4 feet away from the first. Keep each row level, using the trowel handle when needed.

Arrange the four longer boards parallel to one another. Spread them out so there is a 1 1/2-inch space between them.

Place one of the smaller boards in the middle of the long boards. Arrange it perpendicularly on top of the long boards. Screw it in place using two brass screws on each board. Screw the other two short boards on each end of the longer boards in the same way. This creates the seat of the bench.

Sand all rough edges of the seat. Pay particular attention to the corners and edges where the user's legs will be.

Paint or stain the bench with a high-quality outdoor paint or stain. Set the seat on top of the brick legs after the finish has dried. Let the seat hang over evenly on both sides of the brick.