Get started
1 Place the planks where the bench will be situated. Arrange the bricks as shown and mark the position on the ground.
2 Level the ground where the pavers will be placed on each side as a foundation. Position the planks on top of the pavers again and mark where the bricks will be placed on the paver foundation.
3 Mix the mortar by combining the cement, sand and water according to the instructions on the cement bag.
4 Using the builder’s trowel, spread cement on the paver and place the bricks on top of the cement. Use the rubber mallet to tamp down the bricks where necessary to get them level and square. Build the second layer, alternating the bricks as shown (see sketch below). Repeat on the other end of the bench, making sure that the two brick structures are level with each other (see tip). Continue in this fashion until you have four layers of six bricks at each end. 5 Now lay the fifth and final layer of bricks, leaving out two inner bricks to form the gap where the seat will fit.
6 Using a wet sponge, ‘grout’ the gaps between the bricks with mortar. Rinse the sponge frequently and then wipe off the excess mortar again to achieve a relatively smooth surface. The cement must be left to cure (harden) for two days. Paint or varnish the bench as desired.