Jazz Up Your Deck with Built-In Benches Instead of Railings
Is your deck starting to feel stale and uninspiring? Do you find yourself avoiding your outdoor living space because it lacks character? If so, it may be time to reimagine your deck by trading in the standard railings for built-in benches. Not only will benches provide comfortable seating for gathering, they can completely transform the look, functionality, and enjoyment of your deck.
You'll discover how benches offer so much more than just a safety barrier - they create social spaces, maximize your usable area, and add style and aesthetic appeal. We'll also cover key considerations for designing your custom deck benches, from materials and colors to decorative touches. Planning tips, budgeting guidance, and ideas for enjoying your bench-enhanced deck will give you all the information you need to start this exciting project. By the end, you'll be eager to jazz up your deck and take your outdoor living to the next level with built-in benches.
Built-In Deck Benches as Railings
Function as Railings
For decks that are 30 inches or higher above the ground, code requires a railing around the perimeter for safety. Built-in benches can serve this purpose just like standard railings. As long as your benches meet the minimum height requirements, typically 36 to 42 inches, they can act as an effective barrier while also providing seating.
Benches used in place of railings need to adhere to the same strength and durability standards. Depending on your local building codes, the bench seats and backing should be able to withstand a certain amount of horizontal pressure without failing. With proper construction using sturdy decking materials, benches are up for the task. Consult your contractor to ensure your design meets all safety regulations.
More Than Just Railings
While built-in benches satisfy the need for railings around your deck's edge, they offer so much more than safety features. You'll gain comfortable, aesthetically pleasing seats for relaxing or socializing. Benches facilitate conversation areas for gatherings with family and friends. Instead of looking out over a plain railing, you can enjoy the view from a cozy bench. This small change makes a deck feel more welcoming and lived-in.
Benches also maximize your usable deck square footage. Railings serve a single purpose - occupants can only lean on or look over them. Benches pull double duty as both deck railings and seating. You gain functional space to enjoy rather than letting it go to waste. Make the most of your investment by using every inch of your deck.
Design Styles for Deck Benches
One of the best aspects of built-in benches is the seemingly endless design options. Get creative with shape, size, style, materials and decorative details. Custom benches allow you to match your home's architecture and aesthetic or go for a contrasting look. Consider the primary function, whether relaxation, dining or conversation, along with your overall vision.
Bench Shape and Layout
First, think about how benches can be oriented and positioned on the deck. A simple linear bench may suffice for smaller decks or to border one side. Wrap-around curved benches add a pleasing flowing shape. For larger decks, consider L-shaped or U-shaped benches that promote conversation by facing each other. Develop your layout based on the deck's footprint and existing features like stairs or alcoves.
Bench Styles
Benches come in numerous styles to mix up your options:
- Backless benches - Great for taking in views
- Benches with seat backs - More comfortable and supportive
- Benches with storage compartments - Convenient hideaways under the seat
- Planter benches - Built-in space for flowers or greenery
Backless benches work well placed intermittently along railing benches with backs. Comfort increases by incorporating armrests or contoured seats. Get creative and combine different bench types on one deck.
Bench Materials
Benches can utilize a wide range of materials:
- Wood or composite wood
- Plastics such as polycarbonate or PVC
- Wrought iron or powder-coated metals
- Stainless steel cables
- Concrete or stone
- Weather-resistant padded fabrics
Consider maintenance and durability needs along with aesthetics. For example, wood looks beautiful but requires regular sealing, staining and upkeep. On the other hand, low-maintenance plastic or metal benches simply need occasional cleaning.
Matching your bench materials and colors to existing deck finishes creates a cohesive feel. However, opting for contrasting tones and textures can be eye-catching. For instance, a wooden deck with steel cable benches accents the differences. Get creative with combinations that reflect your personal taste.
Decorative Touches
Part of the fun of custom benches is adding decorative flourishes to make them your own. Engrave initials, names or phrases along the bench back or edge. Use stencils and inlays to incorporate shapes, patterns orother unique details. Attach corner planters for greenery. Consider cupholders or folding side tables to increase functionality.
Upholstered bench seats, throw pillows and cushions make built-ins extra comfy while introducing color. Attach lighting underneath for nighttime ambiance. Really personalize each bench to match the purpose, whether dining, conversation or relaxation.
Planning Your Built-In Deck Benches
Careful planning ensures your built-in benches augment your deck exactly how you envisioned. These tips will help you through the layout and design process:
Measure Deck Dimensions
Record the length and width of your overall deck, including any irregularities like angles or alcoves. Note locations of existing features such as stairs, posts or elevated portions that impact bench placement. Calculate the total linear footage needed for your benches based on the perimeter. This lets you scale your layout accurately when designing.
Choose Bench Locations
Focus benches in the deck's prime real estate based on your goals. Place them to showcase the best views off your deck for unwinding. Position benches near steps for easy access if you'll use them for quick drinks or meals. Wrap bench seating around a focal point like a fire pit or water feature to promote conversation.
Take advantage of corner locations to utilize the angles - a corner bench can seat more people than a straight bench of the same length. You may even create conversation areas with benches facing each other across openings.
Pick Complementary Colors and Materials
Choose materials and finishes that either blend with your existing deck or contrast it, depending on the look you prefer. Composite lumber or wood benches tend to match most decking boards seamlessly. For a more modern vibe, sleek metal benches stand out against wood.
Keep durability and maintenance in mind too. For instance, sometimes a bench material that complements the visual style may not hold up as well in that location based on weathering needs. Don't be afraid to mix and match materials and colors within your overall bench design for added interest.
Budgeting for Built-In Deck Benches
Adding built-in benches represents an upfront investment beyond basic railing costs. But remember you're gaining an invaluable multipurpose living space. Analyze budget tradeoffs and cost considerations carefully:
Bench Construction Cost Factors
Bench construction costs depend on:
- Design complexity - simple backless is cheaper than benches with storage
- Materials used - plastic vs. ipe wood or concrete
- Labor for custom designs and installation
With DIY options and modular bench systems, you can control costs. Prefab benches or kits start under $500. For professional custom designs using higher-end materials, budget $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Compare to Railing Costs
Basic cable railings typically run $25-50 per linear foot installed. Railings using composite, iron or steel balusters range from $45-100 per linear foot. Built-in benches offer more function for a significantly higher per foot price. However, you also gain usable square footage that increases your deck's livability and enjoyment. This can balance out the overall cost difference.
Payoff Over Time
Built-in benches provide an immediate payoff by making your deck more inviting and comfortable for your family's everyday use. Over the long run, they add value to your home. Future buyers will appreciate the added seating and functionality. With just a bit of maintenance, built-in benches should retain their beauty and last as long as the deck itself. The initial investment pays dividends for decades to come.
Enjoying Your Deck with Built-In Benches
Once your new deck benches are installed, it's time to take advantage of these versatile new living spaces. Here are just a few ways built-in seating can enhance how you use your deck:
Gathering Spaces for Entertaining
Make the most out of parties and summer barbecues with built-in bench seating around your deck. Benches naturally facilitate conversation areas for comfortable mingling. They provide plenty of seating for guests to relax. Use benches to define different functional zones like a dining area or drink station.
Cozy Spots for Relaxing
Enjoy a morning cup of coffee or unwind at the end of the day in a built-in bench overlooking your backyard. Add thick cushions for extra comfort. Position planter benches near seating areas so the colors and scents of flowers enhance the ambiance. Built-in benches create a welcoming oasis right outside your home.
Safe Play Areas for Kids
For families with children, built-in benches allow you to box in a safe play area on the deck. Little ones can run around freely while parents watch comfortably seated nearby. Locate benches near steps to easily keep an eye on kids coming in and out of the house.
Built-in benches offer the best of both worlds - the safety of railings while adding stylish, functional seating space. Making this small change can completely transform your experience enjoying your deck. When designing your custom benches, take advantage of the possibilities to reflect your lifestyle needs and design aesthetic.
With proper planning and construction, built-in benches are an investment that will pay dividends for many years. Anytime you need an outdoor spot to relax, dine, mingle or watch the sunset, your benches will be waiting. Give your deck the makeover it deserves with built-in seating instead of standard railings.