DIY Modern Concrete and Redwood Bench Tutorial

Remodelaholic
by Remodelaholic
22 Materials
$130
1 Day
Medium
We wanted the sleek look of a modern outdoor bench, but also wanted something that would withstand the weather. So, we decided to try making a piece of furniture with concrete and wood. We just love how it turned out!
Our video tutorial will give you all the tips and tricks for project from start to finish.
The first step is to build the forms for your concrete ends. You can find the free plans on Remodelaholic.com. We used smooth plywood. Cut, pre-drill holes, and screw and nail together.
Mix concrete according to instructions. We added some darker color to achieve the look we wanted. Fill the forms starting at the center and spreading outward. You need to work quickly here. Use a magnesium float or or wood to tamp it in all edges and corners. Scrape off excess mud with long piece of wood, then re-tamp and smooth with trowel.
Be sure to see our instructions on Remodelaholic.com for tips on working with concrete for this project. After 20 mins (shorter for faster setting concrete), tap forms with hammer and run a sander along edges. Smooth concrete with finishing trowel. Remove forms and smooth edges. Allow concrete to dry overnight.
According to plans, rip redwood boards along the length to remove factory edges. Cut to length, sand, and apply polyurethane. Sand and re-coat twice. Allow to fully dry.
Spray paint brackets and screws to match concrete. When paint is dry, attach brackets to boards.
Fit boards to bench, mark spots for concrete screws, then pre-drill holes.
Apply construction adhesive to areas where boards will meet concrete. Set boards in place, and attach with concrete screws. Install a bracket underneath in center for additional support. Make sure legs are square and allow the glue to set.
Now that you've got a great bench, get outside and enjoy the view!
Resources for this project:
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Frequently asked questions
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  3 questions
  • Carol Cole Carol Cole on Aug 20, 2018

    It is wonderful, where do you have it. and did you make more to go with it?

  • Renee Brown Renee Brown on Aug 20, 2018

    I love this! I think that the middle boards could be 2x6s placed on their sides in the cement slabs. This would give it more stability. The slab forms would need to be adjusted to allow for the extra wood beams. Is there some reinforcement in the concrete?

  • Mar23912376 Mar23912376 on Aug 20, 2018

    Since it's all glued and screwed together, how heavy is it to move?

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