When selecting outdoor furniture, the choice between wheels and glides often puzzles homeowners. Both options offer distinct advantages depending on your specific outdoor environment and usage needs.
Furniture with wheels provides excellent mobility, making it ideal for frequently rearranged spaces or when you need to move heavy pieces across flat, hard surfaces like concrete patios or stone pathways. This feature proves particularly useful for dining sets that require occasional repositioning or for furniture that needs regular storage during inclement weather. However, wheels can sink into soft ground like grass or dirt, potentially damaging your lawn and becoming difficult to maneuver.
Glides, on the other hand, offer superior stability and prevent furniture from sliding on sloped surfaces. These flat protective feet distribute weight evenly, making them perfect for wooden decks where they prevent scratching and damage. Glides work well on uneven ground and grassy areas where wheels would struggle. Their stationary nature provides a secure feel but comes with the trade-off of being more challenging to move once positioned.
Consider your primary surface type: wheels excel on hard, flat areas while glides perform better on soft or uneven terrain. For maximum versatility, some manufacturers offer hybrid systems combining both features. Ultimately, your decision should balance mobility needs with stability requirements based on your specific outdoor living space.