How to build a garden bench?

[totocol]

Hi there,

I want to build a garden bench like the one in the photo and I already have a sturdy top sleeper and wondering what wood would be recommended for the legs? 

Any other advice would be great. At this stage I’m just planning to sand the current sleeper and then oil it and then attach the legs to it. 
Thanks!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @totocol,

It appears that the legs on the bench in the image were created with something similar to 90 x 35mm H3-treated Pine. The legs would be a very simple construction, screw four sections together and bolt the top on. I've created a rendering below for you to illustrate better.

Be advised that to use a sleeper for a bench, it should be treated in something other than an arsenic-based preservative. Also, remember your PPE when working with timber, including a dust mask, safety glasses and gloves.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[totocol]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

Can I confirm that the process would be to add a preservative, then an undercoat and then an outdoor paint? 
what sort of preservative would you recommend? 
im adding a photo of the current sleeper I was given that I’m planning to use. 
thanks! 

 

[MitchellMc]

That's a lovely piece of timber, @totocol. Are you sure you want to paint it? A little bit of a sand to create some highlights and a clear exterior varnish and it would look amazing. If you like the rustic styling and clear coat it, it will be a real feature. I fear that if you paint it, it could look like rotted timber that's been painted.

Either way, a clear coat or paint will seal and preserve the surface. If the timber is heavily decayed and falling apart, you might like to spray it with a wood hardener before painting.

Mitchell

[totocol]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

Yes, I was thinking of going for a rustic look. I was however wondering how to achieve a similar look with the legs or some ideas of what approach for the legs will contrast well with the rustic top? 

thanks again! 

[MitchellMc]

Oh, sorry! My mistake, @totocol. It would be hard to mimic the rustic look on the legs, and I quite like the plain black legs of your inspiration image. They don't detract from the beautiful top, which is the centrepiece.

Mitchell

[totocol]

Thanks @MitchellMc 

I do have some monument outdoor paint that I have leftover from another project so I might use that for the legs.

thanks again! 

[totocol]

Sorry. One last question @MitchellMc 

I already have some good screws for the legs but I wonder what bolts would you recommend to attach the legs to the top? 

thanks! 

[MitchellMc]

Cup head bolts would be the way to go, @totocol. Make sure to grab some long enough to pass through your seat and the leg frame. 

Mitchell

[totocol]

Thanks a lot! I’ll post some photos when finished