Build Your Own Outdoor Corner Bench with These Easy Plans

Outdoor corner benches make excellent use of yard space and provide comfortable seating for relaxing or entertaining. With simple designs using common lumber, you can DIY a corner bench yourself without advanced woodworking skills. Follow these beginner-friendly plans to construct a sturdy, attractive outdoor corner bench for your patio, porch or deck.

Planning Your Corner Bench

When deciding on your bench design, consider these factors:

• Dimensions – Typical corner benches are 4-6 feet on each side. Adjust for your space.

• Seating – Allow at least 15-18 inches depth for comfortable seating.

• Style – Choose a basic square design or get creative with angles,

• Materials – Pressure treated lumber withstands weather. Pine or cedar give a nicer look.

• Leg height – Standard bench height is 16-18 inches Adjust if desired

• Backrest – Add a backrest for extra comfort. Omit for more open feel.

• Corner angle – 90 degrees is typical. Wider (obtuse) angles take up more space.

• Decor – Leave natural or stain/paint to match your color scheme. Add cushions later.

Constructing the Corner Bench Frame

Follow these steps to build a simple square corner bench frame:

• Cut 2x4s to required lengths with miter saw.

• Assemble sides of bench by screwing 2x4s together at corners. Check for square.

• Attach front and back 2x4s to side assemblies to create outer frame.

• Add 2×4 supports diagonally across corner for stability.

• Attach 2×4 seats supports inside frame, spaced 16 inches apart.

• Screw 2×4 backrest supports to rear of frame, if including backrest.

• Sand any rough edges. Apply wood sealer/preservative to cut ends.

Adding the Seating

Now add the horizontal 2×4 boards to create the seating surface:

• Lay 2x4s across seat supports, spaced 1/2 inch apart for drainage.

• Position front edge of boards 3/4 inch over front of frame for grip space when lifting seat.

• Drill pilot holes then drive 3″ deck screws through boards into seat supports.

• Use shims and clamps to ensure even spacing between boards as you attach them.

• Sand top surface smooth. Round over front edge of seating for comfort.

• Apply weather resistant sealant/stain if desired.

Creating a Backrest

For extra comfort, attach a simple 2×4 backrest:

• Lay 2x4s horizontally across backrest supports, 1/2 inch apart.

• Position so tops align with top of seat. Bottom should sit just above seat rear.

• Attach backrest boards by driving screws from rear through supports.

• Sand smooth and finish with sealant or stain to match seat.

Tips for Completing Your Bench

Finishing touches:

• Add decorative wood trim along edges for a more polished look.

• Attach corner brackets or supports between legs for stability.

• Create a cohesive look by staining the entire bench to match your deck or outdoor color scheme.

• Use weatherproof paint if staining isn’t desired.

• Add cushions and outdoor pillows for extra comfort.

• Install your corner bench in a shaded spot for more usable seating space outdoors.

With simple lumber, basic tools, and these easy steps, you can construct your own long-lasting outdoor corner bench to enjoy for years to come. Customize the dimensions and detailing to perfectly suit your space.

Frequency of Entities:

corner bench: 7
outdoor: 6
2×4: 6
frame: 5
seat: 4
wood: 3
boards: 3
backrest: 3