Cinder Block Bench Seat: Step-by-Step Guide

Transforming ordinary cinder blocks into a functional and stylish bench seat might seem like an intimidating task, but with the right approach, it's surprisingly achievable. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you create a durable and attractive addition to your outdoor space.

Before you begin, gather your materials: cinder blocks, concrete mix, sand, water, a trowel, a level, a tape measure, and optional decorative elements like pavers or mosaic tiles. Safety gear, including gloves and goggles, is also essential. Let's dive into the process.

Planning Your Bench Seat

Before you start building, plan the dimensions of your bench seat. A standard bench is about 4 feet long and 1.5 feet wide, but you can adjust these measurements to suit your space and needs. Sketch a simple design, including the number of blocks you'll need and any decorative elements you want to incorporate.

Consider the location of your bench. It should be level and stable, with good drainage to prevent water from pooling and damaging the structure. Also, think about the height - a standard bench seat is about 18 inches high, but you can adjust this by using more or fewer courses of blocks.

Preparing the Base

Choosing a Location

Select a level area for your bench. If the ground is uneven, you may need to excavate a bit to create a flat surface. Ensure the area is well-draining to prevent water from accumulating and damaging your bench.

Once you've chosen the location, mark out the dimensions of your bench using stakes and string. This will serve as a guide as you build.

Laying the Foundation

Create a stable base for your bench by mixing concrete according to the package instructions. Pour the concrete into a form that's slightly larger than your bench's footprint, ensuring it's level. You can use a 2x4 or a piece of plywood as a form.

Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding. This will provide a solid base for your bench, preventing it from shifting or sinking over time.

Building the Bench Seat

Laying the First Course of Blocks

Begin laying your cinder blocks on the concrete base, following your planned dimensions. Use a level to ensure each block is even and the course is straight. Stagger the blocks in a running bond pattern for added stability.

Use a trowel to apply a thin layer of mortar between each block, ensuring they're securely bonded together. Allow the mortar to set for at least 24 hours before proceeding.

Adding Courses of Blocks

Continue adding courses of blocks, staggering the joints and using mortar to bond them together. Each course should be level and aligned with the one below it. You can use a string line to ensure your bench remains straight as you build upwards.

For a standard bench, you'll likely need three or four courses of blocks. However, you can adjust this based on your desired height and the size of your blocks.

Finishing Touches

Creating the Seat

Once you've reached your desired height, you'll need to create a flat surface for the seat. You can do this by laying a course of blocks on their sides, or by using pavers or mosaic tiles to create a decorative top.

If using pavers or tiles, apply mortar to the top of the blocks and carefully place the pavers or tiles, ensuring they're level and aligned. Allow the mortar to set for at least 24 hours before using the bench.

Decorative Elements

To add a personal touch, you can incorporate decorative elements into your bench. This could be as simple as painting the blocks a different color, or as complex as creating a mosaic pattern with tiles.

If you choose to paint your bench, ensure the blocks are clean and dry, then apply a primer and two coats of exterior paint. Allow the paint to cure for at least 24 hours before using the bench.

Congratulations! You've now transformed a stack of cinder blocks into a functional and stylish bench seat. Enjoy your new outdoor space, and remember, with a little creativity and some elbow grease, you can turn ordinary materials into extraordinary pieces.