We are all familiar with benches within the home, but have you thought about using a bench outside of your home? Benches can be used in the conservatory, on the patio area and in the garden.
They not only look good, but they are also very practical items of furniture.
Having a storage bench on the patio provides additional seating for you and your friends, and also provides you with an area to store items.
There are many items that can be stored in the bench such as barbeque cooking equipment for instance.
This provides a safe and secure place away from the outside elements to store you barbeque accessories.
During the long winter months, you can also use a bench plastic cover which will protect the bench and its contents from moisture.
If your patio bench comes with cushions, make sure that are detachable so that you can store the cushions indoors when not in use.
There are many types of benches for the garden.
The two most popular materials used for garden benches are wood and metal.
Both can withstand the rain and sun for many years as long as they have been treated with a protective coat during manufacturing.
Otherwise the metal will rust and the wood will crack.
Benches can be placed anywhere in the garden, but perhaps the best place would be in the shade perhaps by a large shady tree.
Garden benches can also be bought as a storage bench too.
This option allows you to store gardening tools or kids outdoor toys.
A good tip is to look out for a bench that provides a way of locking the seat either with a padlock or combination lock.
This helps to protect the contents from unwanted intruders.
There are two mains types of garden benches which are popular in most gardens.
The first is a bench with a back which does allow for a more comfortable sit as you can sit back.
The second is a very simple garden bench with no back.
If you are looking for a very minimalist bench, then this would be the best option for you.