Built-In Benches: The Perfect Addition to Your Deck

New decking projects are exciting to most of the homeowners who planned for it properly for a long time. When the time comes and everything is ready to get started, some homeowners with a little extra cash on hand might want to add small things to their decks like built-in benches, maybe a louvered roof, some solar shades or other stuff within the extra budget. The thing is, not all decks are the right option for such additions, especially for built-in benches. In this article we will discuss when built-in benches are a good option, the benefits, and when they are not recommended to add. Let’s get started!

Why Built-In Benches Are a Great Idea

• They’ll Maximize the Outdoor Space

Built-in benches are great for smaller decks. They will create seating, so you don’t have to get your outdoor area cluttered with furniture. They will hug the perimeter and will keep the walkways open.

• They Create a Polished Look

Your built-in benches, compared to the movable furniture, are usually designed to match your deck’s materials, railings and color. They will look like a part of the deck. Another benefit from your benches is that they will increase the value of your property and your entire outdoor area will look more “finished”.

• Long-Term Durability

Like we already mentioned above, your built-in benches will match your deck’s style. They will be built from the same material as your deck, including pressure-treated lumber, cedar or even composite. All this will make them last a lot longer than regular patio furniture.

• They’ll Add Storage

We mention also that built-in benches are good for smaller decks because you don’t have to get it cluttered with furniture, and another important benefit is that they add storage. They can be designed to have hinged lids or lift-up seats for hidden storage, also great for cushions, toys, or even tools for the garden.

The Best Types of Decks for Built-In Benches

Built-in benches are not for every deck. There are a few typed of decks that will benefit from this addition. Let’s explore them below:

• Multi-Level Decks

Multi-level decks are a great type to add built-in benches to. They can define separate areas. For example, you can choose one lever for lounging and another one for dining, where the benches will serve as subtle dividers.

• Perimeter Decks

Decks that are built around the back or side of a home are great for perimeter benches. People use them to create a natural border, to add privacy and to get rid of the furniture along the edges.

• Rooftop or Elevated Decks

In some cases, benches are built for safety on rooftop decks or high balconies. Designed with planters or railings, they will look beautiful and spacious.

• Poolside or Waterfront Decks

Waterfront decks or pool decks are another great type of decks for built-in benches. You can store towels or pool gears. Your deck will look like a resort-style area.

• Curved or Custom-Shaped Decks

Sometimes when the deck has an unusual layout and regular furniture doesn’t fit it, custom built-in benches are a great solution in this case. More specific curved benches will make the most out of every inch of space on your deck.

When Built-In Benches Aren’t the Best Choice

One thing to keep in mind about built-in benches is that once they are built, they are there to stay You can’t move the like you would move your movable furniture. If you are the type of person who like to move things around often, built-in benches aren’t for you. Built-in bencher might reduce the flexibility for dining areas that need movable chairs and tables.

Final Ideas

To summarize, built-in benches are a great option to maximize the space, they are more durable and can be built from the same material as your deck. They become a part of your deck. Some people have built-in benches to serve as security for rooftop decks, while others use them to divide area on their decks. Some disadvantages are that once you build them, you can’t move them so easily whenever you want like you would do with regular furniture. There are people who like to change the layout of their outdoor area pretty often and for such people built-in benches might not be a good option.