Noticing a wobbly leg on your favorite old park bench? Don't retire it just yet. This common issue is often a straightforward DIY fix. First, identify the source of the wobble. Is it a loose bolt or screw at the joint where the leg meets the seat or the side brace? Often, years of weather and use simply loosen these fasteners. Tighten them with the appropriate wrench or screwdriver. If the bolt spins freely, the nut on the inside may be missing or stripped; you may need to replace the hardware with a longer bolt and a new lock washer and nut.
If tightening doesn't work, the problem might be wood rot or a cracked joint. For minor rot, scrape out the soft wood, apply a wood hardener, and fill the area with epoxy putty. For a cracked leg or a severely loose joint, you'll need to add reinforcement. A simple metal L-bracket or a wooden corner block glued and screwed onto the inside of the joint can add tremendous strength. Apply waterproof wood glue to the joint before reassembling and clamping it tightly. Once the repair is complete, consider applying a fresh coat of sealant to protect the wood. With these steps, your cherished bench will be stable and ready for many more years of peaceful sitting.