How To Make An Outdoor Storage Bench: A Personal Experience
As an avid gardener, I have always struggled to find a place to store all my tools and equipment. I didn’t want to clutter my garage and I wanted everything to be easily accessible. That’s when I decided to make an outdoor storage bench. It not only provides ample storage space but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of my garden. In this article, I will be sharing my experience and providing a step-by-step guide on how to make an outdoor storage bench.
Step-by-step Guide for Making an Outdoor Storage Bench
Materials Required:
- 2×4 wooden boards
- 1×4 wooden boards
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Saw
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Polyurethane
Instructions:
- Cut the 2×4 wooden boards according to the desired length and width of the bench.
- Attach the 2×4 boards together to form the frame of the bench using wood glue and screws.
- Cut the 1×4 wooden boards according to the length of the bench and screw them onto the frame to form the seating area.
- Add a backrest to the bench by attaching more 1×4 boards to the frame.
- Cut a hinged lid out of plywood and attach it to the bench frame using hinges.
- Sand the bench to get rid of any rough edges.
- Apply polyurethane to protect the wood from weather damage.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making an Outdoor Storage Bench
- Use weather-resistant wood such as cedar or teak.
- Add a cushion to the seating area for extra comfort.
- Paint the bench to match the color scheme of your garden.
- Customize the size of the bench according to your needs.
- Add wheels to the bottom of the bench for easy mobility.
- Use a waterproof liner inside the bench to protect the contents from moisture.
- Install a lock on the lid for added security.
- Add hooks to the sides of the bench for hanging gardening tools.
- Use a clear polyurethane to maintain the natural look of the wood.
- Make multiple benches to create a seating area in your garden.
Pros and Cons of Making an Outdoor Storage Bench
Pros:
- Provides ample storage space for gardening tools and equipment.
- Adds to the aesthetic appeal of your garden.
- Doubles up as a seating area.
- Customizable according to your needs.
- Can be made using weather-resistant wood to last longer.
Cons:
- Requires some woodworking skills and tools.
- Can be time-consuming to make.
- Can be expensive if using high-quality wood.
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Making an Outdoor Storage Bench
In my opinion, making an outdoor storage bench was a great idea. It not only solved my storage problems but also added to the beauty of my garden. The bench was easy to make and required only basic woodworking skills. I used cedar wood for my bench, which not only looks great but also lasts longer. I would highly recommend making an outdoor storage bench to anyone who loves gardening and wants to keep their tools organized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How much does it cost to make an outdoor storage bench?
A. The cost of making an outdoor storage bench depends on the type of wood used and the size of the bench. On average, it can cost anywhere between $100 to $500.
Q. Can I make an outdoor storage bench without any woodworking skills?
A. While some woodworking skills are required, making an outdoor storage bench can be a great DIY project for beginners. There are plenty of online tutorials and guides available to help you through the process.
Q. What is the best type of wood to use for an outdoor storage bench?
A. Cedar, teak, and redwood are some of the best types of wood to use for an outdoor storage bench as they are naturally resistant to weather damage and insects.
Q. How long does an outdoor storage bench last?
A. The lifespan of an outdoor storage bench depends on the type of wood used and the maintenance it receives. On average, a well-maintained bench can last anywhere between 5 to 10 years.