We are finishing deck #2. This deck will have no railing, since it has flared stairs surrounding it, but it will have benches. Deck #1, which is on the opposite side of the cabin, has a rail system that has 4×4 posts with one inch cut off the length, so the post is an actual size of 2 and 1/2 “, not 3 and 1/2”. We like the look of the rails – they’re not as “chunky” looking.

Anyway, here’s my question. I have plans for deck benches from the California Redwood Association, designed by Scott Padgett. They have bench legs and backrests made from 4×4 posts. We would like to match the back deck by cutting 1″ from the 4×4 posts. Is this going to make a significant difference in the strength of the benches? Would we have to change number of legs? Right now, there is a pair of legs every 4′.

Of course, we could always just try it and see, but I figured somebody would be willing to take a shot for us to go on. I tried to post a picture of the rails (complete with splash of bird doo-doo), but I don’t know if it’s attached or not. Thanks!