January 30, 2022

How To Build DIY Outdoor Sectional Couch for Patio

Introduction

We needed some extra seating in our outdoor sectional. As part of it, we decided to do a backyard makeover, we wanted to change our backyard seating arrangement. We have just the project for you: a DIY outdoor sectional. When I looked for a couch that I liked, I realized they were crazy expensive. The total cost of the couch is $3,500, and I am not ready to pay that amount.

So, we decided to make our own DIY outdoor sectional couch. This DIY sectional brings charm and comfort to your outdoor space. Grab your tools and start creating the perfect spot for lounging and soaking up some sunshine in style.ed

Creating your outdoor sectional sofa or couch can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enhance your outdoor space. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a small balcony, a DIY outdoor sectional couch offers both functionality and style. By building your own, you have the freedom to customize the design, dimensions, and materials to perfectly fit your needs. This project not only allows you to save money compared to purchasing a pre-made set, but it also gives you the satisfaction of crafting something unique to your space.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a comfortable and stylish outdoor sectional couch that you and your guests will enjoy for years to come. If you’d like to see it all in action, here is full video tutorial. You can also watch my other projects on my YouTube channel

What is the best wood for an outdoor sectional couch?

The most important part is getting the right lumber wood (the right type of wood) with exact dimensions for the project. Choose pressure-treated wood for outdoor projects. You have to make sure you get wood that is ‘approved for ground contact’ for the pieces that touch the ground. In this case, we got ground-contact-approved 4x4s since we will be using them as legs. Everything else is severe weather pressure-treated

Materials:

Tools Required:

Power drill
Measuring tape
Miter Saws
Kreg Jig Set
Pencil
Sander or sandpaper
Paint roller

Steps of budling a DIY outdoor sectional

Step 1: Build the DIY outdoor sectional base frame:

Start by building a sturdy frame. Attach the seat slats (1x6s) to the legs, with the slats sitting on the frame, so ensure the frame is strong enough. Cut the middle pieces as 2x4s and use a Kreg jig to attach them to the frame. Drill pocket holes on either side of the middle pieces and secure them to the 2x4s on each side with screw heads or wood screw.

Tip: You can add more middle pieces and place them closer together for extra center support.

We used a couple of 1x2s since we had them on hand. We built two seat frame—one 6 feet long and the other 8 feet—to create an L-shaped sectional couch. The full frame is about 20″ deep.

Now fill these pocket holes with the wood filler of your choice. We used Minwax wood filler.

Step 2: Sand and Add the legs to the base frame:

Now we need to get the legs ready. We got those “ground contact approved” 4x4s and cut them using a miter saw.

Note: You would need a 10″ Miter saws to cut these.

We had a smaller one but it wasn’t big enough for the job, so we borrowed a bigger one from a friend. After some research, we decided to have a 10″ height for the legs as we want a low-height lounge couch.

Now we sand all the pieces down. To sand the frame and legs we use 180-grit sandpaper.

The bottom side frame will be hidden below the slats, so it doesn’t have to be super smooth. All the other pieces (front board) that are visible i.e., 1x6s and 1x4s need to be sanded as smoothly as possible. So we used 240 and 360-grit sandpaper to give a smooth finish.

Step 3: Paint the frame and legs:

We painted the frame and legs first as it will be difficult to reach those once assembled. For outdoor furniture collection, it is always good to use wood stain/paint on all sides, even though they won’t be visible. It will act as a protective layer in those severe colder months and weather conditions.

We used Cabot solid stain of Dark slate color which is also a sealer.

Step 4: Attach the DIY frame and legs:

Now make a pilot hole and drill the screws to attach the frame to the legs using 4″ exterior-grade screws. We wanted to have an overhang on the edge of the frame to use as a side table, so we placed the legs 16″ away from the outer edge. The cushion will stop there, as you can see in the final image.

Step 5: Build the back support frame:

Now let’s move on to the back frames. The back frames will be attached to the legs. We made a simple U-shaped frame using 1x4s. I would highly recommend using 2x4s here in case you don’t plan on using a thick cushion, as 1x4s felt a little weak under pressure. We used pocket holes here too for 1 1/4″ screws. Fill the pocket holes with wood filler.

To get the measurements of the back frame, measure the distance between the legs on the back of the couch. The frame width of the corner piece is tricky. Make the frames overlap on the corner to give a neat look.

We can now attach these to the legs. Choose the seat height at which you want the back frame to be. We wanted it to be 15″ from the seat. To support the back frame while screwing it in, we clamped a 2x4s block to the leg as shown below. Then, screw the 1×4 to the leg.

Step 6: Add the slats to the sectional base frame:

Now it’s time to add the slats!! Just place the slats on the base frame and space them evenly. Then screw it to the 2x4s on the frame.

The final part is the outer frame. Add 1x4s on all side frames of the couch. Measure the distance between the legs of the back frame while adding an outer frame in the back, between the legs of the backrest frame.

Fill all the screw heads and close the screw holes with wood filler and do one final sanding before painting.

Step 7: Paint DIY Outdoor Sectional

Then you paint everything using a roller. The paintbrush shows the bristles, so we went with a roller. A paint sprayer would give a better finish.

Now add some seat cushions and decorate! I will soon be uploading a blog on how to DIY outdoor cushions. Until then let’s keep creating!!

Frequently asked questions

What is the least expensive way to make a small DIY outdoor seating area?

If you’re looking to create a small outdoor seating area on a budget, there are a few cost-effective options to consider. One of the least expensive ways to make a small outdoor patio is by using basic materials like gravel or pea gravel. This low-maintenance option can be easily spread out over an area and provides a nice base for your patio furniture.

Another budget-friendly option is to use concrete pavers or stepping stones. These can be arranged in various patterns to create a unique and durable patio surface. You can also consider using recycled materials such as old bricks or reclaimed wood to add character and charm to your outdoor space.

To further save money, you can DIY projects for the installation of your patio by following online tutorials or asking for help from friends and family. With some creativity and resourcefulness, you can create a cozy outdoor retreat without breaking the bank. So grab some supplies, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy your new budget-friendly patio!

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