How to Make a Garden Bench with Concrete Blocks and a Piece of Wood

A vacant corner of the garden can be put to a new use without the need for complicated construction. Concrete blocks and a piece of wood can provide the foundation for a straightforward outdoor bench, provided the arrangement is built 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 straightforward: concrete blocks act as supports at either end, with the wood placed across them to form the seat. The number and arrangement of the pieces will depend on the size of the timber and the weight the bench will need to carry.

Before assembling it, select timber that is durable and in sound condition. Cracked, rotten or excessively thin pieces are unsuitable for supporting people, even when the blocks themselves are secure.

How should the site be prepared before assembling the bench?

The ground should be reasonably level and able to bear the structure’s weight without sinking. In garden areas with very loose or uneven soil, the blocks may shift over time, affecting the bench’s stability.

Set the supports on a firm surface and check that they are level before fitting the wood. An uneven base may cause the seat to wobble, so it is worth levelling the ground before completing the assembly.

How should the wood be placed on the concrete blocks?

The wood needs to rest evenly on the supports, with the blocks positioned so that no large section of the seat is left unsupported. The length of the piece determines how much space should be left between the supports.

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

Does wood used in a garden need protection?

Yes. Wood used outdoors is exposed to rain, moisture, sunlight and changing temperatures. Without suitable protection, it may absorb water, split or begin to rot over time.

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