Is your favorite old metal outdoor bench starting to wobble and rock? Don't retire it just yet! Fixing unstable legs is usually a straightforward DIY project. First, thoroughly clean the bench and flip it over to inspect all the joints and connections. Look for loose bolts, nuts, or rivets at the leg attachments and cross-braces. Using the correct size wrench or socket, tighten every fastener you can find. For threaded bolts that spin freely, you may need to hold the nut on the opposite side with a second wrench.
If tightening doesn't solve the wobble, the issue might be worn or enlarged holes. Remove the loose bolt completely. You can often fix this by replacing the old bolt with a slightly larger diameter one, using matching washers and a lock nut to prevent future loosening. For riveted joints that have failed, drill out the old rivet and replace it with a bolt and nut assembly.
In cases where metal has cracked or corroded, cleaning the area and applying a strong epoxy or metal repair compound can reinforce the weak spot. For severe wobble due to bent legs, you may carefully bend the leg back to its original position using gentle pressure. Once the repair is complete, ensure the bench sits level on the ground. To prevent future issues, apply a protective paint coat to rust-prone areas and periodically check and tighten all connections. Your sturdy, revitalized bench is now ready for many more seasons of relaxation.