Strong winds can turn your beautiful patio into a scene of chaos, with chairs toppling and tables skidding across the deck. Securing your outdoor furniture doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Here are several effective strategies to keep everything in place.
First, consider adding weight. For dining sets and chairs, look for furniture with substantial frames. You can also add weight discreetly by placing sandbags inside the hollow legs of metal furniture or using a weighted umbrella base for your table. For lighter items like side tables and planters, choose concrete, stone, or thick resin versions that are naturally heavy and wind-resistant.
Anchoring is a highly effective method. Use ground anchors, which are stakes that screw into the grass or soil beneath your patio with a strap or bungee cord to tie down furniture legs. For permanent structures like pergolas or gazebos, you can use wall anchors or eye bolts to securely tether your sofa or loveseat. For furniture on a wooden deck, deck clips or straps that fasten to the deck boards are an excellent, non-permanent solution.
When not in use, the simplest solution is to store lightweight items. Stackable chairs can be locked together and stored in a garage or shed. Invest in high-quality, heavy-duty furniture covers that have tie-downs or fasteners. When pulled tight, these covers can significantly reduce wind catch and help hold the furniture down.
Finally, think about your furniture choices. Opt for low-profile designs that wind can easily pass through or under, rather than solid panels that act like sails. Wrought iron, heavy wood, and all-weather wicker sets are typically more stable than lightweight aluminum or plastic. By combining weight, anchoring, smart storage, and strategic purchases, you can create a wind-resistant outdoor space that remains serene and intact, no matter the weather.