It's a common frustration: you place your beautiful outdoor bench on the lawn or in a garden bed, only to find its legs slowly disappearing into the earth. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also make the bench wobbly and unsafe. Don't worry—stopping the sink is easier than you think. Here are practical, durable solutions.
First, create a solid foundation. The simplest method is to use concrete pavers or stepping stones. Place one under each leg. This spreads the bench's weight over a larger area, significantly reducing ground pressure. For a more permanent setup in very soft soil, dig a shallow hole for each leg, fill it with a few inches of compacted gravel or crushed stone, and then place the paver on top. This creates a mini "footing" that drains water and prevents sinking.
For benches that stay in one place, consider using plastic or composite deck blocks. These are designed to hold posts and beams and provide an excellent, stable base that keeps wood off damp ground. Alternatively, you can attach adjustable leg caps or furniture glides. Many are designed with wide, plastic bases specifically for soft outdoor surfaces. Some even have spikes to grip the soil beneath the grass.
If you move your bench often, keep a set of four small, portable patio protector pads handy. Slip them under the legs whenever you reposition the furniture. For a DIY approach, large, flat stones or even sections of a 4x4 timber can work in a pinch.
The key is to increase the surface area that bears the weight. By implementing one of these straightforward strategies, you can enjoy your outdoor seating without the constant battle against sinking legs, ensuring a stable and level bench for seasons to come.