For homeowners with an outdoor deck, determining the right embellishments can make all the difference in creating a functional and inviting space. Rather than defaulting to a traditional railing lining the deck’s perimeter, consider installing a multi-purpose bench instead. Offering seating and style, deck benches maximize use of space far better than railings alone.
Deck benches provide the required elevation barrier for safety, yet also double as comfortable seating. With custom shapes and sizes available, you can add standalone benches or incorporate them into the railing itself for optimal usage. By taking advantage of this efficient design, your deck evolves into a gathering spot made for conversation and connection.
Types of Deck Benches
Backless Benches
For a sleek and minimalist look, backless benches keep the design simple and affordable. Their versatility lends well to rearranging based on the number of people or desired views. Backless benches blend seamlessly into small deck layouts where a full bench with backs may overwhelm the space.
Since the simplistic style doesn’t provide lumbar support, backless benches work best for short-term seating. Their low profile nature also fails to deliverprivacy or shelter from behind.
Benches with Backs
For additional comfort and support, deck benches with full backs offer a relaxed seating experience. Ideal for longer conversations or dining uses, backed benches provide a comfortable respite to lounge.
However, the fixed shape and size of benches with backs lead to a less flexible arrangement. They also consume more linear deck spaceversus a backless design. This makes placement and proportion important when integrating into smaller decks.
Storage Benches
Storage benches boost seating and functionality by stashing outdoor living accessories when notneeded. From patio cushions to kids’ toys to gardening equipment, storage benches hideaway essentials conveniently under the seat.
To safeguard contents from weather, ensure storage bench construction properly seals and secures the storage cavity. Once built to adequately protectbelongings though, the storage aspect tremendously increases bench utility.
Primary Advantages of Deck Benches
Added Seating Capacity
Unlike railings, deck benches focus first on accommodating people rather than acting as safety barriers. With ample room for multiple guests, bench conversation pits or dining spaces far exceed railings for capacity.
The seating format also fosters engaged social interaction through face-to-face positioning. Gathering in a circle or around a table boosted by built-in benches reinforces a welcoming atmosphere.
For maxing out occupancy, customize the length, shape and quantity of benches to achieve desired scale. Wrap around bench corners to optimize ergonomics and space.
Improved Functionality
Deck benches pull double duty in providing safe elevation coverage plus seats. This dual-purpose brilliance lends well to modest decks by saving room. It also liberates overall layout options without railings gobbling up precious real estate.
The flexible functionality empowers homeowners to use awkward narrow strips or irregular proportions. Almost any shape works when the structure itself optimizes for hanging out rather than purely preventing falls.
With seating up front, benches make small decks more entertaining and navigable. Guests can readily access views and move about without railings barring the way.
Unique Style Statement
Far from cookie cutter, personalized deck benches set themselves apart aesthetically too. Curving bench shape, mixing materials and incorporating decorative touches give creative reign.
Contrasting an exterior railing with an interior bench produces a striking asymmetrical balance. Or extend bench legs into built-in planters for a sleek modern sensibility.
Like a signature piece of jewelry, a thoughtfully designed deck bench nods to the homeowner’s unique flair. It conveys an artistic, outside-the-box risk while still upholding safety guidelines.
Bench Materials and Design Elements
Deck benches open up wider material choices compared to typical railing options. Besides natural woods, painted aluminum and composite materials like Trex offer weather-resistance and low maintenance.
Striving for cohesion, allow the existing deck style and surroundings to inspire the right bench look. A Craftsman deck merits built-in cedar benches while composite works well on contemporary decks.
Getting creative with bench shape and accents also increases customization. Gentle corners, cut-out handles and storage compartments all provide potential personalization.
Safety Building Codes for Deck Benches
Despite their perching purpose, deck benches must still comply with code safety regulations. As occupiable barriers, they call for prevention standards on par with regular height and spacing pointers.
Savvy construction remains vital for enduring deck bench integrity over time, similar to securing railing posts properly. Factor in long-term durability against potential dry rot or loosening.
Though appearing more stylized, deck benches stakes remain high for risk prevention through precision installation. When built intact however, benches logically promote safer deck interactions through enhanced access and visibility around the space compared to railings.
Transform Wasted Railing Space into Valuable Seating
For homeowners still debating keeping their existing railing over replacing with built-in benches, consider the value opportunity loss. That slim snaking railing occupies abundant linear footage without returning any experiential reward.
Meanwhile, the same boundary footprint filled by benches instead encourages gathering and mingling. Just picture the scene: drinks in hand, friends laughing over a comfy bench. The atmosphere and functionality heighten exponentially thanks to smart seating additions.
Locating benches midpoint along the deck perimeter blends safety and lounge potential beautifully. Curving bench corners and adding sidebar end-caps play up the social possibilities too. Why stick with a plain railing when benches better the view and the experience all at once?
Rather than accepting railings as a utilitarian deck necessity, proactively enhance your space instead through multi-functional benches. Purposeful and stylish, built-in benches champion both safety standards and social engagements at once. This efficiency leaves home design and guests smiling equally thanks to maximized form and function working in tandem.
So next time your existing deck gets a facelift or you start from scratch, skip the standard railing. Embrace benches flowing along the edges to claim usable, livable square footage back. Frame that gorgeous view through a lens of community and comfort. Benches keep loved ones closer while upholding safety assurances – now that’s an elevation upgrade for the win!
