Looking to add seating to your patio without breaking the bank? A DIY cinder block bench is a budget-friendly, sturdy, and stylish solution that’s perfect for outdoor lounging. With a few materials and some creativity, you can create a custom bench to fit your space and style.
Why Choose a Cinder Block Bench?
Affordable and Durable
Cinder blocks are inexpensive, durable, and weather-resistant. They’re ideal for outdoor furniture that can withstand the elements without frequent maintenance.
Customizable Design
With a DIY cinder block bench, you have flexibility in design. Whether you want a short or long bench, with back support or without, you can adjust the arrangement to suit your patio.
Quick and Easy Assembly
This project requires minimal tools and can be assembled in a few hours. Even if you’re new to DIY, a cinder block bench is simple enough to make without prior experience.
Materials You’ll Need
- Cinder Blocks: 12-16 blocks, depending on the bench length and height
- Wood Beams: 4 wooden beams (4×4 inches), cut to your desired length
- Outdoor Paint or Sealant: For weatherproofing and adding color to the blocks
- Heavy-Duty Adhesive (Optional): For added stability
- Outdoor Cushions or Pillows: To make the bench more comfortable
- Sandpaper: For smoothing wood edges
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your DIY Cinder Block Bench
Step 1: Decide on the Layout
Before getting started, decide on the layout and measurements of your bench. Common configurations include:
- Backless Bench: Simple, low-profile design, perfect for open seating.
- Bench with Backrest: Extra cinder blocks are used vertically for back support.
Decide how long and wide you’d like the bench to be, considering your patio space and how many people it should seat.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinder Blocks and Wood Beams
- Clean the Blocks: Dust off the blocks and inspect them for any cracks.
- Sand the Wood Beams: Smooth the edges of your wood beams with sandpaper to prevent splinters.
- Paint or Seal (Optional): If desired, paint the cinder blocks with outdoor paint to match your patio decor or seal them for extra protection. Allow them to dry completely.
Step 3: Arrange the Cinder Blocks as the Base
- Lay Out the Blocks: Place the cinder blocks in pairs on the ground, with each pair spaced about 2–3 feet apart to support the wood beams.
- Create Back Support (Optional): If you’d like a backrest, place two blocks vertically on each end of the bench to support the wood beams at an angle.
Step 4: Insert the Wood Beams
- Slide Beams Through the Blocks: Insert the wood beams horizontally through the cinder block openings.
- Align and Center: Make sure each beam is aligned and centered, allowing equal overhang on both sides for a balanced look.
Step 5: Secure the Structure (Optional)
For extra stability, use heavy-duty adhesive between the blocks or between the blocks and wood beams. This step is optional if you want to keep the bench easy to disassemble or move.
Step 6: Add Cushions and Final Touches
- Add Cushions: Place outdoor cushions or pillows on top of the bench for comfort. Choose weather-resistant fabric to ensure durability.
- Decorate: Add throws, pillows, or small potted plants around the bench for a cozy touch.
Creative Variations for Your Cinder Block Bench
Add a Side Table
Use a single cinder block stack on one end as a built-in side table. It’s perfect for holding drinks, books, or small potted plants.
Incorporate Planter Blocks
Choose a few blocks with open ends and use them as planters. You can fill these with succulents, flowers, or herbs for a pop of greenery right next to your seating area.
Add Lighting
Consider adding small solar lights within the cinder block holes for evening ambiance. These lights can be easily inserted and will give your bench a warm glow at night.
Stain the Wood Beams
For a more polished look, stain or seal the wood beams before assembly. This step not only enhances the wood’s appearance but also provides extra protection from the weather.
Benefits of a DIY Cinder Block Bench
- Budget-Friendly: Requires minimal materials and tools, making it a cost-effective seating solution.
- Customizable: Allows for endless customization options to suit your style.
- Weather-Resistant: Cinder blocks and sealed wood are durable enough to handle various weather conditions.
- Easy to Build: No advanced skills required—just stack, slide, and secure.
Maintenance Tips for Your Cinder Block Bench
- Clean Regularly: Wipe down the wood and cinder blocks periodically to prevent dirt buildup.
- Replace Cushions as Needed: If cushions or pillows start to wear, replace them with new ones to keep the bench looking fresh.
- Reapply Sealant or Paint: If you used paint or sealant, reapply every couple of years to maintain the bench’s appearance and durability.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY cinder block bench is a fun, affordable way to add functional and stylish seating to your patio. With a few materials and simple steps, you’ll have a custom bench ready for outdoor relaxation in no time. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it as unique as your space!
FAQs about DIY Cinder Block Bench
Can I use different wood for the beams?
Yes, but make sure it’s weather-resistant, such as cedar or treated pine, to handle outdoor conditions.
How much weight can a cinder block bench hold?
Cinder blocks are very strong and can support a significant amount of weight. For added strength, use heavy-duty wood beams like 4x4s.
What should I do if my bench feels unstable?
Consider using adhesive to secure the blocks and beams, or add extra blocks for additional support if the structure feels wobbly.
Can I paint the cinder blocks?
Yes! Use outdoor paint to customize the color of your blocks, allowing for a colorful or more natural look depending on your style.
Are there any alternatives to wood beams?
Metal beams or pipes can be used for a more industrial look, but they may require additional tools and knowledge to handle.
How do I keep cushions from blowing away?
Use cushions with ties that can be secured to the bench, or consider using anti-slip pads beneath them for extra grip.
What’s the best way to keep my bench clean?
Simply dust off the cinder blocks and wipe the wood with a damp cloth. For cushions, use a fabric cleaner and let them air dry.
Can I add wheels to my cinder block bench?
Due to the weight, wheels aren’t ideal. But if you’d like a mobile version, consider using lighter materials for a similar design.
Will the wood beams warp in the rain?
Use treated wood or apply a waterproof sealant to prevent warping and prolong the life of the beams.
Can I use this bench indoors?
Yes! A cinder block bench can work well indoors, especially for rustic or industrial decor themes. Just make sure the floor can support the weight.