Looking for a way to decorate and tidy up your home at the same time? Our Storage Benches combine function and style seamlessly! They look particularly fantastic for entryways, outdoor seating areas and make excellent accents. Mix and match with our outdoor cozy pillows and cushions to maximize comfort.
A: A Storage Bench combines comfortable seating with ahidden, integrated storage compartment beneath the seat. This dual functionality makes it one of the most practical outdoor furniture items.
Primary Function: Provides convenient, weather-resistant storage for outdoor items while serving as a comfortable seating area.
Ideal Placement: Best placed on aporch, deck, or near a pool/patio area where accessible storage is needed. Common uses include storing chair cushions, pool toys, gardening supplies, barbecue tools, or children's outdoor toys.
A:Water Resistance and Ventilation are the most critical features.
Water Resistance: The bench must be designed to keep contents dry. Look for ahinged lid with a slight overhang andrubber or foam seals around the perimeter of the opening to prevent rain from penetrating the seam.
Ventilation: To prevent mildew, condensation, and odors inside the compartment, the bench should havesmall, discreet vents placed near the bottom or sides. A poorly ventilated box can ruin stored cushions or textiles.
A: Materials are chosen for rigidity, durability, and moisture control:
Resin/Plastic: The most common and economical. Highly water-resistant and requires zero maintenance, though often lighter and less aesthetically pleasing than wood or poly.
Poly Lumber (HDPE): Excellent choice. Provides a heavy, durable bench with a sealed, non-rotting compartment that can be cleaned with soap and water.
Wood (Cedar/Treated Wood): Offers the most attractive look. Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, but wood storage benches require regular exterior sealing and aninternal plastic liner or vapor barrier to protect the contents from moisture and tannins.
A: Inspect the operational components for safety and ease of use:
Hinges: Look forslow-closing hinges or hydraulic arms that prevent the heavy lid from slamming shut. It is a crucial safety feature, especially in a home with children.
Comfort: Ensure the seat surface itself is sturdy, level, and wide enough (at least 18 inches deep) for comfortable sitting. The lid's edges should be rounded or finished to avoid sharp edges.
Interior Capacity: Always check theinternal dimensions (cubic feet/liters) of the storage space to confirm it meets your storage needs, as the exterior frame size can be deceiving.