Upcycle Old Concrete Blocks To Create A Simple Patio Bench With This Clever DIY

Do you have visions of hosting family and friends outdoors, gathering in your backyard for good conversation and maybe a few good drinks? That can be hard to make a reality if your patio is lacking in the seating department. Luckily, you don't have to spend a ton of money to furnish your outdoor space. If you need something simple but unique that doesn't cost a fortune, we have a DIY patio bench you'll love. It's an unexpected way to repurpose cinder blocks in your home and garden – or patio space.

This DIY patio bench uses just a couple of items (concrete blocks and wood planks) that come together quickly, and importantly, inexpensively. You can source concrete blocks for just a few dollars or check out Facebook Marketplace for cheap or free options in your area. If you happen to have wood plank scraps for an old project, this is a perfect way to put them to good use. Of course, you can always buy them at your local hardware store, too. As a bonus, they can cut them to size for you so you won't need any tools for this project. Plus, you can customize this patio bench for a unique look that adds a whole vibe to your warm weather patio parties. In addition to the concrete blocks and wood planks, you might want to grab a container of construction adhesive and your favorite color paint.

Are you ready to see how easy it is to make surprisingly cool DIY patio furniture out of cinder blocks? Start by stacking two concrete blocks on top of each other horizontally. Make two stacks of two and place one at each end of where your bench will sit. Add an additional stack to each end to create greater stability. Or, if your bench is long, add a stack of blocks in the middle for support. Lay the boards lengthwise across the blocks so the ends sit flush with the outer edges of the concrete blocks. Depending on how wide your plank is, you might need a second board to create a more comfortable seating space. Be sure the boards are fully supported at both ends, with additional support in the middle if needed. Adjust as you need, moving the blocks around or adding another stack.

To secure the boards to the concrete blocks, add construction adhesive to the top of the blocks before laying the board down. We suggest laying the boards down first as a trial run, so you have a chance to make any necessary adjustments. Once you have everything laid out the way you like it, remove the boards and add the adhesive. Then place the boards back on the blocks and allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions. For an outdoor patio idea that can revamp your space, you can paint the boards before you begin, using an acrylic latex paint and an outdoor sealant. Make sure you do so in a well-ventilated area. Allow it to dry completely, following the drying times listed on the paint can.