How to build timber bench seat with storage?

[damianpc]

Hi everyone. 

I'm building a timber frame for some bench seats, with internal storage, that will sit on a newly poured concrete pad. It sits under a pergola but has to chance to cop a minimal rain, but not directly. Although from.time to time we'll hose down surrounding pavers. 

The whole structure will be clad in either stonework or hardi groove style cement fibre panelling. 

I was thinking to use H3 treated pine for the frame, mini stud wall style construction. Bottom and top plates and vertical supports between. 

My question is: do I need to make sure the bottom plate is raised slightly to allow water/air to pass through, and if so, what's the best way to achieve this?

Or will the treated pine be sufficient. 

Thanks,

[MitchellMc]

Hi @damianpc,

Raising the bottom plate slightly is an excellent way to prolong the life of the timber, even when using H3-treated pine. Once it's completed, you can achieve this easily by popping some plastic shims under the unit. Alternatively, you could install Surface Gard 22mm Black Round Rubber Bumpers on the bottom, which will provide both clearance and a bit of cushioning. This will help with airflow and drainage, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues over time.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

[damianpc]

Thanks, Mitchell. 

I should have said, I plan for it to be permanently fixed to the concrete. So, rather than fixing the bottom plate directly to the slab, is there a good way of fixing it to the slab but also raising it slightly. I'm thinking something like a mini version of a pergola post stirrup or similar. So the metal is fixed to the concrete and the bottom timber plate, to the stirrup. Hopefully that makes sense. 

Thanks,

Damian

[MitchellMc]

Hi @damianpc,

You can drill through the bottom plate, insert a Dynabolt, and then slip a couple of these square washers onto the bolt before inserting it into your pre-drilled holes in the concrete. That way, the washers will raise it slightly above the ground.

I'm not aware of any mini-stirrup type products.

Mitchell

[damianpc]

That's great and such a simple solution. 

Thanks Mitchell.