How to install a floating garden bench into a Bessa block wall?

Question

I am installing a u-shaped bessa block frame for a garden bench.  I'm using Versasmooth interlocking blocks set on a reinforced concrete foundation, and while the Versasmooth blocks themselves don't require it, will be filling the core with reo bar and concrete.

The seat will be made from either Ekodeck slats or merbau.

The frame will be 620mm high; the seat will be at 450mm.  Ideally, I want the seat of the bench to 'float' ie no visible supports.

At this stage I am considering making the bench on an independent (likely timber but possibly aluminium) frame, then affixing the frame to the Bessa blocks using something like anka screws and a chemical joiner.

The bench is 1600 long x 500 deep.  Total weight will depend on the materials but is designed as a 2-person seat.

Thoughts?  Alternatives?

Nailbag · Answer

Morning @JojoC

I was wondering if you could consider in the Bessa block design to have a row of internal blocks sitting out say 50mm on all 3 sides to create a solid ledge for the seat timbers to rest on. Then you could potentially just use a heavy duty landscaping liquid nails to keep the seat in position. The front facia of the timber seat could extend across the front of the brick wall either side to cover the 50mm holes.

Nailbag

Dave-1 · Answer

Good afternoon @JojoC

Sound slike a solid seat and that you have thought it through :) I was pretty much picturing @JacobZ's mock up from your description :)

If you are filling the bessa blcos with reo and concrete then really some masonary anchors would work well. That way you wont need chemset stuff.You just need the concrete to harden first (not sure how long fresh concrete takes to be able to drill)

Would love to see the project with pics :)

Dave

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @JojoC,

Steel is definitely the stronger material, but it is nowhere near as easy to use. For anything D.I.Y., timber is really the way to go. As long as you use a suitable calibre timber, it will be fine.

There's no great need for Chemset with the Ankascrews as they are designed to bite into the concrete around them. You can use it if you'd like to, but it is not a requirement.

If you were to use threaded rod, then it would be different because threaded rod doesn't bite into the concrete, it needs the Chemset to create the chemical bond to hold it in place.

I am excited to see how it goes and help out further if required. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob