Have you ever wondered if those inviting urban benches are permanently fixed in place? The answer is yes, most public benches in cities are securely anchored to the ground. This is done primarily for safety, durability, and to prevent theft or unauthorized movement.
The most common anchoring method involves concrete footings. Installers dig holes, place steel mounting plates or brackets into the footing, and pour concrete around them. Once cured, the bench legs or frame are bolted directly to these embedded plates. Another popular technique uses ground sleeves—steel tubes set into concrete. The bench legs slide into these sleeves and are locked with a security bolt, allowing for potential removal or replacement without damaging the concrete base.
In high-traffic areas or places with specific design requirements, benches might be bolted directly to pre-existing concrete slabs or pavers using expansion anchors. For a more discreet look, some minimalist benches use recessed anchors that are nearly invisible once installed.
This secure installation ensures benches can withstand daily use and remain a safe, permanent feature of our public spaces for years to come. So next time you take a seat, you can appreciate the unseen engineering that keeps it firmly—and safely—in place.