Build: Outdoor Planter Steps or Benches

1Build the bottom step

Tools

Circular Saw
Drill / Driver

Materials

2x8, 8 ft, ground-contact rated
Exterior deck screws, 2-3/4"

Build the bottom step box from the 2x8 long sides and ends, screwing together with self-tapping deck screws. If you need the top and bottom step heights to match exactly, substitute 2x6 stock for the bottom step instead of 2x8.

2Build the top step

Tools

Circular Saw
Drill / Driver

Materials

2x8, 8 ft, ground-contact rated
2x4, 8 ft, ground-contact rated
Exterior deck screws, 2-3/4"

Begin the top step construction with the long side, ends, and internal supports as shown, then attach the remaining boards to complete the top step box.

3Stack and square

Tools

Speed Square
Tape Measure

Place the top step on the bottom step and adjust for square.

4Attach the trim and treads

Tools

Drill / Driver
Miter Saw

Materials

2x4, 8 ft, ground-contact rated
2x6, 10 ft, ground-contact rated
Exterior deck screws, 2-3/4"

Attach the tie-in trim and mitered top trim to the steps framing, then attach the treads on top. Finish with materials rated for outdoor and ground-contact use.