Article Highlights
Perth's sunshine-drenched climate practically begs for outdoor living spaces where you can relax with a good book or enjoy a lazy Sunday arvo. With an average of 8.8 hours of sunshine daily, our backyards deserve furniture that matches our lifestyle. If you've been eyeing those expensive outdoor daybeds in furniture stores, here's some good news: building your own DIY daybed is easier than you might think, and it'll give you a custom piece that fits your space perfectly.
If you're looking to increase backyard value, simply want create a cosy retreat under your patio, or are still considering what’s best for your patio, a handmade daybed offers flexibility, character and serious cost savings. Let's walk through everything you need to know to build one yourself.
Why Build an Outdoor Daybed?
Store-bought outdoor daybeds can vary greatly in price depending on materials and design. When you build your own, you control the budget, the dimensions and the finish. You're not limited to whatever's in stock at the furniture shop.
A DIY outdoor daybed also gives you the chance to match your existing outdoor aesthetic (especially great for outdoor alfresco areas). Perth homeowners often pair their custom daybeds with patio designs that provide shade and shelter, creating a cohesive outdoor room that feels like an extension of the home. Plus, there's something satisfying about building your own furniture. It's a weekend project that delivers long-term enjoyment.
Both the modular and multi-functional outdoor furniture trend is booming across Australia. Daybeds that double as seating during the day and a guest bed at night are a fantastic design idea when trying to get the most out of a small patio space. With many Australian homeowners completing at least one DIY outdoor project in recent years, you'll be joining a growing community of weekend DIY enthusiasts.
Before you start cutting timber, gather everything you'll need. Having the right tools on hand makes the build smoother and helps you avoid multiple trips to your hardware store.
Tools:
Materials:
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Treated pine or WA hardwood (jarrah or spotted gum)
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Exterior-grade wood glue
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Galvanised or stainless steel screws (50mm and 75mm)
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Outdoor wood stain or sealant
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Timber cut list (dimensions depend on your design)
For Perth conditions, choosing the right timber matters. WA hardwoods like jarrah offer excellent durability against UV exposure and termites. They can last decades outdoors with minimal maintenance. If you're working with a tighter budget, treated pine is a solid choice, just make sure it's rated for outdoor use.
How do I Make the DIY Daybed Frame?
Building a basic daybed frame involves three main stages: cutting and preparing the timber, assembling the sides and backrest, then adding support for weight distribution. Here's how to tackle each step:
1. Measure, Cut and Sand the Boards
Start by deciding on your daybed dimensions. A standard single mattress is 92 cm wide by 188 cm long, so your frame should accommodate that with a bit of breathing room. Cut your timber to length: you'll need side rails, end rails, support slats, legs and a backrest frame. If you’re planning your new patio, it’s good to get these measurements out of the way earlier.
Once everything's cut, sand all surfaces thoroughly. Outdoor furniture needs smooth edges to prevent splinters, especially if you'll be sitting on it in shorts or swimmers. An electric sander speeds up this process, but hand-sanding works fine if you've got patience.
2. Construct the Sides and Backrest
Lay out your side rails and attach the legs at each corner. Pre-drill holes before driving in screws to prevent the timber from splitting. This step is crucial with hardwoods, which are dense and prone to cracking if you skip the pilot holes.
Apply exterior-grade wood glue to joints before screwing them together. The glue adds strength and helps the frame withstand Perth's temperature swings. For the backrest, you can build a simple fixed panel or create a slightly angled design for extra comfort. Attach the backrest securely to the rear legs and back rail.
3. Add Centre Support and Legs for Weight Capacity
A daybed without proper support will sag or, worse, collapse. Add a centre support beam running lengthwise down the middle of the frame. This beam should rest on additional legs or blocking to distribute weight evenly.
Your slats (the boards that hold the mattress) should sit across the frame with small gaps between them for airflow. Space them about 5–7 cm apart. A well-constructed frame with centre support can safely hold up to 250 kg, which is more than enough for two adults lounging comfortably.
What are Some Styling Ideas? Canopies, Weather-Proof Cushions and Outdoor-Rated Mattresses
Once your frame is built, it's time to make it comfortable and stylish. An outdoor-rated mattress or thick futon pad is essential. Indoor mattresses won't cope with humidity or the occasional rain shower, so invest in something designed for the elements.
Weather-proof cushions and pillows add comfort and colour. Look for UV-resistant fabrics that won't fade in Perth's relentless sun. You can mix and match cushion sizes to create a layered, inviting look.
If your daybed will sit in an exposed area, consider adding a canopy for extra shade. A simple fabric canopy attached to posts at each corner provides relief during the hottest part of the day. Alternatively, position your daybed under an existing patio or pergola. Great Aussie Patios can help you design a custom shade structure that complements your new furniture perfectly.
Finishing Touches for Perth Weather
Perth's coastal air, intense UV and occasional winter rain can be tough on outdoor furniture. Protect your investment with the right finishes.
Apply a UV-resistant outdoor stain or sealant to all exposed timber. These finishes penetrate the wood and provide a barrier against moisture and sun damage. Reapply every 12–18 months to keep your daybed looking fresh.
If you've used galvanised or stainless steel screws, they'll resist rust far better than standard fasteners. Check all joints and hardware annually and tighten anything that's worked loose.
Finally, think about placement. Even treated timber benefits from some overhead protection. If you're planning a backyard party or simply want a shaded retreat, positioning your daybed under a patio extends its lifespan and makes it more comfortable year-round.
Ready to Take Your Outdoor Space to the Next Level?
Building a DIY daybed is a rewarding project that gives you a custom piece of furniture at a fraction of retail cost. But let's be honest: even the best daybed needs protection from Perth's weather. That's where professional patio design comes in.
At Great Aussie Patios, we've spent over 24 years helping Perth homeowners create comfortable outdoor living spaces that work with our climate, not against it. Whether you need a gable patio to shelter your new daybed or a full alfresco area for entertaining, our team handles everything from design to council approval to installation.
We'd love to help you make the most of your backyard. Request a free quote today or contact us to discuss your outdoor living goals. Your DIY daybed deserves a proper roof overhead.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using wood glue in a DIY daybed project?
Wood glue enhances the durability and stability of your DIY outdoor daybed, ensuring strong bonds between the frame components and preventing wobbling or loosening over time.
How do I choose the right cushions for my DIY daybed?
For comfort and style, select thick outdoor cushions that fit your daybed frame perfectly. Opt for weather-resistant materials to ensure they can handle the elements and last longer.
Can I use a futon mattress for my DIY daybed?
A futon mattress is a great option for a DIY daybed. It provides comfort and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for both lounging and sleeping, while also being easy to store.
What is the best finish for a DIY outdoor daybed?
Use a weather-resistant stain or outdoor paint with a protective sealant to safeguard your daybed from moisture and UV damage, ensuring long-lasting durability and a fresh look.
How can I add a backrest to my DIY daybed?
To add a backrest, consider using vertical wooden planks or long cushions that are securely attached to the frame, providing extra comfort and support for your DIY outdoor daybed.