How To Measure For Built In Outdoor Cushions

How to Measure for Built-In Seating (Indoor & Outdoor)

Built-in seating looks seamless and intentional — but only when the cushions fit properly. Unlike freestanding patio furniture, built-ins don’t allow for “wiggle room.” Recessed walls, tight corners, angled backs, and uneven surfaces mean accuracy matters.

Whether your built-in is on a covered porch, around a firepit, in a breakfast nook, or along a pool wall, this guide walks you through measuring correctly the first time.

Step 1: Measure the Finished Surface

Always measure the actual finished seating area, not construction plans and not rough framing.

Measure:

• Width (wall to wall or inside edge to inside edge)

• Depth (front edge to back wall)

• Height of back support (if adding back cushions)

• Corner type (square, slightly out-of-square, angled)

Record measurements to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Important:

Walls are rarely perfectly square. Measure:

• Front width

• Back width

• Left depth

• Right depth

If those numbers vary, use the smallest dimension for a proper fit.

Step 2: Check for Recess or Drop-In Space

Some built-ins have a recessed opening where the cushion drops inside.

If recessed:

• Measure the inside opening width

• Measure the inside opening depth

• Measure corner angles carefully

Do not measure the outside trim — measure where the cushion will actually sit.

Step 3: Decide on Cushion Fit Style

There are two common built-in cushion styles:

1) Wall-to-Wall Fit

The cushion fits snugly from wall to wall with no visible gap.

2) Slight Gap Fit (Recommended in Some Cases)

Leave 1/4"–1/2" total clearance to allow:

• Easy installation

• Fabric expansion in humid climates

• Clean removal for washing

We can help you determine which is best for your project.

Step 4: Thickness & Comfort

For indoor built-ins:

• 3"–5" is common

• Comfort often matters more than weather resistance

For outdoor built-ins:

• 4"–6" is typical

• Quick-dry foam may be recommended in exposed areas

Also check:

• Does thickness affect window height?

• Does it block a lid or storage?

• Does it interfere with table height?

Step 5: Measure Back Cushions (If Needed)

If adding back cushions:

Measure:

• Back height desired

• Back width

• Angle of back (90° wall vs angled support)

For corner built-ins:

• Each back cushion may need to be separate.

• Confirm whether the corner will be mitered or squared.

Step 6: When to Create a Pattern (Highly Recommended)

Built-ins are one of the best situations to use a paper pattern.

Create a pattern when:

• Walls are not square

• Corners are angled

• The seat is curved

• There are cut-outs around posts or columns

Use heavy paper or contractor paper and trace the exact seating surface.

We provide a separate detailed guide on creating a cushion pattern step-by-step — including how to mark orientation and seam references.

Patterns remove guesswork.

Step 7: Tie Placement & Attachment

Built-in seating often does not require ties — but there are exceptions.

You may want ties if:

• The bench is in a windy outdoor area

• The seating surface is slick

• Children or pets shift cushions frequently

Ties can be placed:

• On the back edge

• On the underside

• Along side walls (if accessible)

While our website does not allow you to customize tie placement during checkout, custom placement can absolutely be arranged. We simply need:

• Photos of the built-in

• Clear measurements

• Marked tie locations (if required)

Common Built-In Measuring Mistakes

• Measuring trim instead of interior opening

• Assuming walls are square

• Forgetting clearance for fabric expansion

• Not checking for obstructions (outlets, posts, hinges)

• Forgetting to label left/right orientation

Quick Built-In Measuring Checklist

✔ Measure finished interior dimensions
✔ Measure front and back widths
✔ Measure left and right depths
✔ Confirm thickness
✔ Decide on snug vs slight gap
✔ Create pattern if irregular
✔ Take clear photos

Built-in seating should look custom — not forced. With careful measurements (or a precise pattern), your cushions will feel intentional, tailored, and perfectly integrated into your space.

If you’re unsure, send us photos and measurements before ordering. We’re happy to review and guide you.