Living in an urban high-rise often means dealing with strong winds on your balcony, which can turn your cozy outdoor oasis into a hazardous zone of flying furniture. Securing your outdoor furniture is not just about preserving your decor; it's a crucial safety measure. Here are several effective strategies to keep your furniture grounded.
First, consider the weight. Opt for heavy, solid furniture made from materials like concrete, stone, or thick, treated wood. These are inherently more resistant to wind. If you have lighter pieces, such as aluminum or plastic chairs, add weight to them. You can use sandbags discreetly placed on the base of chair legs or inside hollow furniture frames. For tables, placing a heavy, weather-resistant planter or a large decorative stone in the center can provide significant stability.
Anchoring is another highly effective method. If your balcony has a railing, you can use sturdy straps, bungee cords, or even marine-grade rope to tie larger items like bookshelves or loungers securely to it. For freestanding pieces, look for furniture with anchor points designed for this purpose. You can also create your own using eye bolts and wire, ensuring they are fastened to a solid part of the furniture and a stable point on the balcony wall or floor, if possible.
Strategic placement is key. Arrange your furniture in the most sheltered part of your balcony, typically closer to the building's wall, which acts as a natural windbreak. Avoid placing lightweight items near the edge where wind gusts are strongest.
Investing in windbreaks can dramatically reduce wind speed on your balcony. Install a transparent acrylic or polycarbonate screen on the windward side of your railing. This will deflect the wind over and away from your seating area without completely obstructing your view. Alternatively, a sturdy, well-anchored privacy lattice or a panel of outdoor fabric can also break the wind's force.
Finally, when severe weather is forecasted, the simplest solution is to be prepared to temporarily move lighter items indoors. Stacking chairs and storing small tables inside can prevent accidents and protect your furniture from damage.
By combining these methods—adding weight, using anchors, positioning wisely, and installing windbreaks—you can create a safe, stable, and stylish outdoor space that withstands the city winds.