It's a common frustration: you place a lovely garden bench on your lawn, only to find its legs slowly disappearing into the soft earth. Not only is it unsightly and unstable, but it can also damage your bench and lawn. Thankfully, preventing this is straightforward with a few practical solutions. Here are the most effective methods to keep your bench level and secure.
First, the simplest fix is using pavers or patio stones. Place a solid, flat stone or concrete paver under each leg. Choose ones that are slightly wider than the legs to distribute the weight over a larger area, preventing sinking. Sink the pavers just flush with the grass surface for a cleaner look.
For a more permanent and discreet solution, install permanent footers. Dig holes where each bench leg will sit, fill them with gravel for drainage, and top with a concrete tube form or a flat cap stone. This creates a solid, buried foundation that keeps legs high and dry.
Consider attaching wider feet to your bench legs. You can purchase or DIY wooden "skis," metal plates, or even large rubber caps. Increasing the surface area of each leg dramatically reduces ground pressure, much like snowshoes prevent sinking in snow.
If you move your bench often, create portable "mud shoes." Cut sections of a wide plastic drainage pipe or use small wooden platforms. These can be placed under the legs as needed and are easy to store.
Finally, for a natural approach, improve the ground itself. In the bench area, remove sod, add a layer of compactible gravel, and cover with decorative bark or pea gravel. This creates a stable, drained spot that blends seamlessly with your garden.
Regular maintenance helps too. Move your bench slightly every few weeks during wet seasons to allow the grass to recover. With these tips, you can enjoy your garden seating without the sinking feeling, ensuring a stable and inviting spot for years to come.