You've admired them in parks and gardens: those sturdy, classic concrete benches. Their substantial appearance immediately suggests one thing – immense weight. So, are concrete garden benches really as heavy as they look? The short answer is yes, and often even heavier than you imagine. But let's break down the why and the how.
A typical solid concrete bench can easily weigh between 250 to 500 pounds (110 to 225 kilograms). Some larger, more ornate designs can exceed 800 pounds. The weight comes from the density of the material itself. Concrete is a mix of cement, sand, aggregate (like gravel), and water, creating a mass that is inherently heavy and solid. This heft is precisely what gives these benches their renowned durability and stability. They won't blow over in a storm or be easily stolen.
However, not all concrete benches are solid pours. Many modern versions are crafted using a fiber-concrete mix or are cast with hollow cores or internal reinforcements. These techniques can reduce the weight somewhat while maintaining strength, but the bench will still be a significant lifting object. The design also plays a role; a bench with thick, chunky legs and a solid slab seat will be far heavier than one with more slender, open architectural details.
What does this mean for you? First, permanence. Once placed, a concrete bench is a semi-permanent fixture. Thoroughly plan its location before delivery. Second, moving it requires preparation. Always lift with your legs, not your back, and use moving equipment like a sturdy dolly or forearm forklift straps. It's often a two or three-person job. Consider the surface it will sit on; a heavy bench on soft ground may slowly sink over time.
So, while their imposing look is not deceiving – concrete benches are indeed heavyweight champions of garden furniture – their mass is a trade-off for their timeless appeal, incredible longevity, and steadfast presence in your outdoor space. The weight is a feature, not a flaw, ensuring your bench will be a lasting sanctuary for years to come.