How to Build a Bench Around a Tree

Tree bench

Designing a functional area outdoors can be a challenging project, so much more when space is at a premium. For entertaining outdoors, it is important to take into consideration the comfort of everyone by providing enough seating for mingling, eating food and enjoying each other's company. Adding folding chairs may be the easiest solution; however, they require storage after using them, in addition to being unattractive and not durable. If you have a large tree in your backyard, you can add a bench around it, which can eliminate the need for storage, while providing an attractive, durable and comfortable seating area. Furthermore, the tree's canopy can provide shade from the sun. Here's how to build a bench around a tree.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure Stakes String Shovel Gravel Concrete mixture 8 pieces of 1 1/2 inches x 3 inches Softwood (27 inches long) 4 pieces of 1 inch by 2 inches softwood Several pieces of wood slats Drill Screwdriver Screws Hand saw or circular saw Hammer Nails Level Medium grit sandpaper Paint or wood stain

Instructions

1. Measure the area where you will build your bench. You can base your measurement on the size of the trunk of your tree. The bigger the tree trunk, the wider the bench can be. If you have a young tree, it is important to give enough room for the tree to grow. For this example, we will create a bench measuring 5 feet by 4 feet.

2. Make an outline of the shape of your bench. Mark each corner with a piece of wooden stake and tie a piece of string around them to connect all four corners.

3. Dig eight holes about 12 inches deep and 8 inches wide. Position each hole about 15 to 18 inches apart in two rows about the same distance either side of the trunk.

4. Pour 2 inches of gravel inside each hole.

5. Prepare the legs. Cut eight pieces of 1 1/2 inches by 3 inches softwood, treated with preservatives, about 27 inches high each. Insert each piece into the hole.

6. Pour mixed concrete inside the hole for added support. Straighten up each leg and check that they're level. Allow the concrete to dry overnight.

7. Check the newly installed legs. Check that they are all level and measure for equal height. Trim down any leg that is higher than the others using a handsaw or circular saw.

8. Cut four pieces of 1 inch by 2 inche softwood for the crossbars. Allow 3 inches of overhang at each end. Drill and screw one piece to a pair of legs, creating a frame to support the slats.

9. Cut slats to about 5 feet each. The number of slats will depend upon the size of your bench. For this example, you may need to cut up to 20 slats. Allow at least 1 inch of space in between each slat. Nail each slat down on the crossbars. As you approach the center near the trunk, cut the slats that will wrap around the trunk, to give it room.

10. Sand any rough surface and edges with the medium grit sandpaper. Remove the dust using tack cloth or wet sponge. Apply two coats of paint or wood stain of your choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a mature tree whenever possible. If you do not have one, find out how big the young tree will grow. From there make you can estimate to allow for growth.

• Avoid damaging the tree's roots when you're digging.

Resources

• Free Tree Bench Plans