Building a Basic Bench Two Post Bench

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How-To Sheet #410

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Install Guide

An AB Courtyard bench is a way to add beautiful accents and seating to any landscape or patio. You can build it on an existing surface like a patio or pavement, as well as on soil. In this example we will create a bench that is 3 blocks high, with a seating height of 18 in. (460 mm).

How to Build a Basic Bench

Video: How to Build a Basic Bench

Determine Layout

Determine Layout

First Course

First Course

Second and Third Course

Second and Third Course

Seating Material

Seating Material

Materials Needed

  • 24 Corner Blocks
  • Flexible Concrete Adhesive
  • 1 Seating material 24 in. wide (60 cm) by the 60 in. long (150 cm)
    • 2 - Cedar Studs - 2 in. x 4 in. x 22 in. (approx.) (50 mm x 100 mm x 560 mm)
    • 4 - Cedar Planks - 1 in. x 6 in. x 60 in. (approx.) (25 mm x 150 mm x 150 cm)

Tools Needed

  • Square
  • Tape Measure
  • Level
  • Safety Glasses
  • Work Gloves
  • Circular Saw
Base course layout

Block Layout

Step 1: Layout - First Bench Post

At the location of the bench, install the first course of the post/column with 4 Corner Blocks with the long sides facing out using one of the patterns below. Then align them with a square making adjustments as needed. Shims can be used to help level the blocks if the existing surface is not level.

Step 2: Second Bench Post

To determine the location of the 2nd post, measure out the distance of the bench material to be used. Install the next 4 Corner Blocks at this location in one of the patterns shown.

Step 3: Additional Courses

Install the second and third courses of both posts alternating between the patterns. Place the Corner Blocks so that they overlap the blocks beneath them. This pattern will offset the vertical seams. Do not stack the blocks up using only one pattern (seams should not create a straight line the full height of the post/column).

Step 4: Bench Material

Measure for bench size

Measure for bench size

Measure and install the seating material. Cedar deck boards or a slab of natural stone make good seating materials. See your local supplier for more options. To construct this seating bench you will need 4 pieces of cedar planks and 2 pieces of cedar studs cut to the dimensions shown. You will want to double check the dimensions of your bench by measuring the distance between the posts prior to cutting your bench material, include any overhang desired. You will want to seal each piece of wood with an outdoor sealant designed for wood (prior to construction is recommended).

Bench material layout

Bench material layout