Strong winds can turn your beautifully arranged patio into a scene of chaos, with chairs toppled and tables displaced. Securing your outdoor furniture doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Here are several effective strategies to keep everything in place.
Start by using weights. For lighter furniture like resin chairs and small side tables, add mass. You can purchase commercial furniture weights that strap onto chair and table legs. For a DIY approach, fill planters with sand or stones and place them on the base of your furniture. For umbrellas, use a weighted umbrella stand filled with sand.
For heavier pieces and for areas with very high winds, you need a more robust solution. Use ground anchors or stakes. These are ideal for wooden benches, pergolas, and larger dining sets. Screw-in ground anchors, similar to those used for dog ties or tents, can be driven into the grass or soil beneath your furniture. Then, use durable straps, bungee cords, or rope to securely lash the furniture legs to the anchors.
Another excellent method is to use tie-down straps directly to a solid patio. If you have a concrete or stone patio, you can use eye bolts screwed into the surface. Always check with your landlord or homeowners association before permanently modifying a patio. Alternatively, use heavy-duty sandbags with built-in attachment points to strap your furniture down without drilling.
Don't forget the power of strategic placement. Positioning your furniture close to a wall or a dense hedge can create a natural windbreak, significantly reducing the force of the wind. When severe weather is forecasted, the simplest solution is to stack and secure lightweight furniture or store it indoors.
Finally, consider investing in all-weather furniture that is inherently heavier and more wind-resistant. By combining these methods—adding weight, using anchors and straps, and being strategic with placement—you can enjoy your outdoor space without constantly chasing your furniture down the street.