Placing outdoor furniture directly on a lawn can lead to a host of problems, including dead grass, an uneven and wobbly setup, and difficulty moving pieces. To create a stable, level surface that also protects your turf, the best foundations are permeable, durable, and distribute weight evenly.
One of the most effective and affordable solutions is a gravel base. Using materials like crushed stone or pea gravel, you can create a permeable patio area that provides excellent drainage and prevents furniture from sinking. For a more solid and permanent surface, concrete pavers or flagstones are ideal. They offer a flat, stable foundation that can be set directly on leveled sand or a sand-gravel mix. Interlocking grid systems, often made from recycled plastic, are another superb choice. These grids are filled with gravel or soil and grass seed, creating a strong, load-bearing surface that remains permeable and protects the lawn underneath.
Other good options include using deck tiles or a dedicated patio furniture mat. It's generally best to avoid solid, non-permeable materials like large plastic sheets, as they can kill the grass by blocking water and sunlight. By choosing the right foundation, you can enjoy stable furniture and a healthy, beautiful lawn all season long.