How to Anchor a Temporary Patio Structure

A backyard party with a pavilion provides protection from rainy weather.

Lawn parties, backyard barbecues and picnics in the park are times when an extra shelter may be needed. There are a wide variety of temporary patio canopies available, but one thing they all have in common is a need to be anchored down so that strong winds don't ruin your good time. The best anchor depends upon what the structure is resting on.

Things You'll Need

• 50-lb. sandbags (4)
• Plastic grocery or shopping bags
• Small shovel
• Heavy-duty U-bolts at least 6 inches in length
• Hammer, screwdriver or pliers

Instructions

1. Anchor a canopy that rests on a paved surface, such as a driveway or parking, lot with heavy, portable objects, such as sandbags. Two 50-lb. bags against each leg will provide the necessary weight to keep the structure from moving.

2. Use homemade sandbags on the opposite end of a hard surface if the structure is on sand or sandy soil where a stake will not hold. If you're at the beach, you can leave the sandbags at home and just bring plastic grocery bags, along with a small shovel. Empty the bags out when the party is done and you'll have a few light bags to pack away picnic items or for trash.

3. Avoid having to deal with sandbags by using large U-bolts if the location is a grassy area. U-bolts look like over-sized-staples and function in the same manner; you can staple the foot of the structure to the ground with a few good whacks of a hammer then simply pull up the U-bolts with a pair of pliers or pry them up with a screwdriver at the end of the day.

Tips & Warnings

• If you know it is going to be a windy day, then plan on redundancy. Use two methods together, such as the U-bolts and sandbags together.