How to Make a Garden Bench With Concrete Blocks and Wood

A vacant corner of the garden can be given a new purpose without the need for complicated construction work. Concrete blocks and a piece of wood can create the foundation for a straightforward outdoor bench, provided the arrangement is assembled on solid ground and is stable enough for use. It is a useful option for anyone seeking a practical solution while making use of materials already available at home.

How do concrete blocks and wood create a bench?

The construction is fairly uncomplicated: the blocks act as supports at either side, and the wood is placed across them to form the seat. The number and positioning of the pieces will depend on the size of the wood and the weight the bench needs to carry.

Before putting it together, select timber that is sturdy and in sound condition. Cracked, rotten or very thin pieces are not suitable for supporting people, even when the blocks are secure.

How should you prepare the area before assembling the bench?

The ground should be reasonably level and able to bear the weight of the structure without sinking. In garden areas where the soil is especially soft or uneven, the blocks may shift over time and affect the bench’s stability.

Place the supports on a firm surface and check that they are level before setting the wood in place. An uneven base can cause the seat to wobble, so it is worth levelling the ground before completing the assembly.

How should the wood be positioned on the concrete blocks?

The wood needs to rest evenly on the supports, with the concrete blocks arranged so that no large section of the seat is left unsupported. The dimensions of the timber will determine how much distance should be left between the supports.

Once the wood has been positioned, carefully test the bench for stability before using it. If the blocks move, the seat tilts or anything shifts, do not use the structure until the issue has been resolved.

Does wood left in the garden need protection?

Yes. Timber used outdoors is exposed to rain, damp, sunlight and changes in temperature. Without suitable protection, it may take in water, split or begin to rot over time.

A product intended for outdoor use can help protect the piece, as long as it is suitable for the particular type of timber. It is also important to keep the seat away from areas where water tends to collect, helping to ensure the material dries after rainfall.