It's a common frustration: you place a lovely outdoor bench on your lawn, only to find its legs slowly disappearing into the soft ground. Not only is this annoying, but it can also make the bench unstable and wobbly. Don't worry—this problem has several straightforward and affordable solutions. Here are five effective methods to keep your bench firmly in place.
First, consider using concrete pavers or stepping stones. Simply place a solid paver under each bench leg. This spreads the weight over a much larger area, preventing the concentrated pressure that causes sinking. Choose pavers that are slightly wider than the bench feet for the best results.
For a more permanent and leveled solution, create a gravel base. Dig a shallow hole a few inches deep where each leg will sit. Fill it with crushed stone or gravel, then compact it firmly. Place your bench on top. The gravel allows for drainage and provides a stable, non-shifting foundation that won't sink.
Plastic deck blocks or patio protectors are a fantastic ready-made option. These are designed specifically to sit under furniture legs on grass or soil. They have a wide, flat base and often a cup on top to hold the leg securely. They are inexpensive, easy to install, and very effective.
If you're handy, you can attach wider feet to your bench. You can purchase flat, circular furniture glides or even cut small squares from a durable outdoor-rated board. Screw or bolt these wider platforms onto the bottom of each existing leg. This simple modification dramatically increases the surface area in contact with the ground.
Finally, for benches that will stay in one spot all season, consider using a full footprint. Laying down a small section of patio stones, a recycled pallet, or even a cedar grid creates a stable platform for the entire bench. This is the most labor-intensive method but offers the most stability and protects your lawn from excessive wear.
The best method depends on your bench, your lawn, and how permanent you want the setup to be. Start with the simplest solution, like pavers or deck blocks. With a little effort, you can enjoy your outdoor seating without the constant sinking and wobbling, making your garden a more relaxing place to be.