How far should a bench be from a fire pit?

At least 3 feet from the edge for safety and comfort.

Best wood for fire pit furniture?

Western Red Cedar and Redwood are excellent because they are rot-resistant and stay cooler to the touch.

How do I make a curved bench?

Set your miter saw to 10-15 degrees and cut seat board ends at matching opposite angles to form the arc.

How to Build a Fire Pit Bench | Lumberama

beginner

4-6 hours

$100 - $250

How to Build a Fire Pit Bench: Curved Outdoor Seating (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Projects Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026|Sources & methodology

Complete your backyard fire pit area with comfortable curved seating that invites friends and family to gather around the flames. These simple benches use angled cuts on standard lumber to create a gentle curve that wraps around your fire pit.

Key Takeaways

Complete your backyard fire pit area with comfortable curved seating that invites friends and family to gather around the flames.
These simple benches use angled cuts on standard lumber to create a gentle curve that wraps around your fire pit.
Keep benches at least 3 feet from the fire pit edge.
Cedar stays cooler to the touch than treated pine.
Build in individual sections so they can be moved for cleaning.

Tools Needed

miter saw, drill/driver, tape measure, speed square, level, clamps, sandpaper, paintbrush

Materials List

2x4 lumber (legs and supports), 2x6 or 5/4x6 seat boards, exterior-grade deck screws, wood glue, exterior wood stain or sealer

Step-by-Step Instructions

Plan the Curve

Measure fire pit diameter and plan bench segments at least 3 feet from the fire ring.

Cut Leg Assemblies

Cut 2x4 legs to 17 inches and crosspieces. Join into H-shaped frames with screws and glue.

Set Miter Angles for Curve

Set miter saw to 10-15 degrees. Cut seat board ends at matching angles to form the arc.

Attach Seat Boards

Pre-drill and screw 2x6 or 5/4x6 seat boards to leg assemblies. Use two boards per section.

Level and Stabilize

Place benches around fire pit and shim legs as needed. Add diagonal bracing if needed.

Sand and Finish

Sand all surfaces, round over sharp edges, and apply two coats of exterior stain or sealer.

Recommended Species

Western Red Cedar, Pressure-Treated Pine, Redwood

Recommended Sizes

2x4 legs and framing, 2x6 or 5/4x6 seat boards

Pro Tips

Keep benches at least 3 feet from the fire pit edge. Cedar stays cooler to the touch than treated pine. Build in individual sections so they can be moved for cleaning. Sand all edges thoroughly since bare skin will rest on surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

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