It's a common summer frustration: you set up your favorite chair or table on the lush green grass, only to find its legs slowly disappearing into the soil. Not only is this annoying, but it can also damage your lawn and create an unstable, wobbly surface. Fortunately, preventing your outdoor furniture from sinking is straightforward with a few simple solutions.
The primary reason furniture sinks is the concentration of weight on a small surface area. Soft ground from recent rain or overwatering exacerbates the problem. The goal of any solution is to distribute this weight over a larger area.
Here are the most effective methods to keep your furniture stable:
1. Use Patio Furniture Leg Protectors/Glides: These are plastic or polymer caps that slip onto the bottom of your furniture legs. They significantly increase the surface area that contacts the ground, effectively distributing the weight and preventing the legs from digging in. They are an inexpensive and easy-to-install first line of defense.
2. Place Furniture on Pavers or Tiles: For a more permanent and decorative solution, place flat pavers, concrete tiles, or stepping stones under each furniture leg. Ensure the stones are level with the grass surface. This creates a solid, stable base that completely bypasses the soft grass.
3. Create a Crushed Stone or Gravel Base: For furniture that stays in one place all season, consider creating a small patio area with crushed stone or pea gravel. This provides excellent drainage and a firm, level surface that will not allow legs to sink.
4. Employ a Deck or Patio: The most effective long-term solution is to place your furniture on a solid surface like a wooden deck, concrete patio, or a dedicated paved area. This entirely removes the issue of sinking and protects your lawn from damage.
5. Broaden the Base with DIY Plates: For a quick fix, you can use small, flat objects like plastic lids from large containers, sections of a 2x4 wood plank cut into squares, or even large washers. Attach or place these underneath the legs to create a wider footprint.
By implementing one of these simple strategies, you can enjoy a stable, level seating area on your lawn all season long, without the constant hassle of lifting and repositioning your sinking furniture.