Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Gather Your Materials and Tools

Materials and Tools:

three 8-foot 1x6s
four 8-foot 2x4s
one 8-foot 4x4
one 8-foot 2x6
six 3 3/8-inch lag bolts with flat washers
screws
power drill and wood bit
circular saw
hammer
varnish
paint
stain

Step 3: Make the Frame

For a seamless look, build bench out of existing decking material. Build bench to fit existing deck space or use as barrier at side of low deck.

Start by cutting frame from 2x4s.

Tip: Frame should be four inches shorter than length of seat and four inches narrower than width of seat. Standard bench width is 16 inches.

With circular saw, cut two long boards for frame sides and six cross pieces.

Sand edges smooth.

When positioning center crosspieces, leave room for center legs between them, if bench is 8 feet long.

Pre-drill and screw together frame.

Step 4: Add the Legs

Cut legs out of 4x4s.

Tip: Standard bench height is 16 inches; allow 1 inch for seat thickness. An 8-foot bench will need an extra set of legs in the center.

If bench will sit against wall, cut back legs so that bench slopes 1-inch towards back to make seating more comfortable; if bench is free-standing, make legs even.

Screw legs onto frame.

Step 5: Finish the Bench

Out of 2x6s, cut leg bases the width of bench.

Bolt bases to centers of legs with lag bolts.

Using router, round ends and outer edges of outside seat boards.

Using 2-inch screws, attach three seat boards to frame.

Paint or stain bench to match deck.