Yes, benches can be securely anchored to different surfaces like brick or asphalt, and doing so is often recommended for public spaces, commercial areas, or any location where safety and permanence are priorities. The process and required hardware depend significantly on the base material.
For brick or other masonry surfaces, the most reliable method is to use concrete anchors. You would typically drill pilot holes into the brick (avoiding the mortar, which is weaker) and then use sleeve anchors, wedge anchors, or chemical anchors. These expand or bond within the brick to create a very strong, permanent hold.
Anchoring to asphalt is more challenging due to its flexible and composite nature. Direct anchoring into plain asphalt is not advised for heavy loads. The best practice is to drill through the asphalt into a stable sub-base (like compacted gravel or concrete) below and use long concrete anchors that reach this solid layer. Alternatively, you can install a concrete footing or piers beneath the asphalt during construction and anchor the bench to those.
Key considerations for any project include checking for underground utilities before drilling, using corrosion-resistant hardware (like galvanized or stainless steel) for outdoor use, and ensuring the bench's mounting plates align with your anchor points. Proper installation prevents tipping, theft, and ensures long-term safety for all users.