What's best to add weight to hollow plastic table legs?

Gail
by Gail

I just bought 2 new plastic patio tables with hollow legs that bolt on. They are light weight so plan to fill legs for weight so wind doesn't blow them over. They have umbrella holes in center so need them to hold up my umbrellas.


Which would be better to fill the legs & why, small rocks, pea gravel, or sand?

  10 answers
  • Sue Sue on Oct 07, 2018

    Cat litter will also work well

  • Depends on how breezy it is by you. I would go with cat litter (the old fashioned clay type), pea gravel or sand.


    Still buy an umbrella stand too, it makes a world of difference. They have models from very inexpensive (that you fill with water or sand) up to very expensive styles that are quite pricey.

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    • Wonderful! So happy you love Hometalk as much as I do! Such a great place. Look forward to the daily email.

  • Zard Pocleeb Zard Pocleeb on Oct 07, 2018

    You can fill a mason jar with small rocks, then pea gravel, then sand. Weigh the jar with each of the items and see which one weighs more.

  • Joy30150932 Joy30150932 on Oct 07, 2018

    I wold use the sand as it would be easier to put into the legs and would fill every nook and cranny.

  • Edie Edie on Oct 07, 2018

    Well, I would choose pea gravel because small rocks may not be heavy enough if they create air space between pieces. Moisture in sand won't be able to dry out if any moisture can get in...even humidity can create mold. Curious about your tables...have never seen ones that could be filled for weight!

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    • Gail Gail on Oct 16, 2018

      You are most welcome. I hope you can find them near you.

  • William William on Oct 07, 2018

    Sand. No air space like stone or pea gravel

    • Gail Gail on Oct 08, 2018

      William, what are chances of mold inside legs should water or moisture get in there to sand? Would it drain out & sand dry somehow anyway? There is a round plug in bottom of each leg but will allow contents to empty out of legs if plug is removed.

  • William William on Oct 08, 2018

    Mold feeds on organic materials Clean sand is inorganic. A bead of silicone caulk before bolting the legs on would create a seal from water intrusion.

  • Em Em on Oct 13, 2018

    Sand would be the heaviest, pea gravel less messy and should add sufficient weight.

  • Gail Gail on Oct 14, 2018

    Will be outside so will probably use combination. What's a little mess outside anyway. Mud, now that's a mess. 😁


    I so very much appreciate everyone's help!!! Thank you!!!

  • Fiddledd224 Fiddledd224 on Oct 15, 2018

    Sand or kitty litter would work. Use a funnel to fill.