How To Repair Plastic Outdoor Chairs

Plastic outdoor chairs offer affordable and durable seating solutions for patios, gardens, and decks. However, exposure to the elements and regular use can lead to wear and tear. This guide provides practical steps for repairing common damages, extending the lifespan of your outdoor furniture.

Assessing the Damage

Before beginning any repairs, it's crucial to identify the type and extent of the damage. This assessment will determine the appropriate repair method and necessary materials.

Cracks: Examine the chair for any cracks, noting their size and location. Hairline cracks can often be repaired with adhesive, while larger cracks might require more substantial fixes.
Breaks: Check for complete breaks or separations in the plastic. These typically require more robust solutions like plastic welding or reinforcement.
Splits: Splits differ from cracks in that they run along the length of a molded part. Repairing splits involves joining the separated sections and reinforcing the area.
Leg Damage: Inspect the chair legs for instability, wobbliness, or breaks. These can often be fixed by reinforcing or replacing the damaged leg.
Fading and Discoloration: Sun exposure can fade the color of plastic furniture. While this is primarily cosmetic, restoration methods can improve the chair's appearance.

Gathering Necessary Materials

Once the damage is assessed, gather the appropriate materials for the repair. Having everything on hand streamlines the process.

Plastic Adhesive: Choose an adhesive specifically designed for plastic. Consider the type of plastic your chairs are made of (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene) for optimal adhesion.
Plastic Welding Kit: For larger breaks or structural repairs, a plastic welding kit provides a more permanent solution.
Reinforcement Materials: Metal brackets, screws, and epoxy putty can be used to reinforce weakened areas or rebuild broken sections.
Sandpaper: Various grits of sandpaper are useful for smoothing rough edges and preparing surfaces for bonding.
Cleaning Solution: A mild detergent and water solution or specialized plastic cleaner are essential for removing dirt and grime before repairs.
Clamps: Clamps help hold pieces together while the adhesive or plastic weld sets.
Safety Equipment: Gloves, eye protection, and a respirator (if using a plastic welding kit) are important for safety.

Repairing Cracks

Cracks in plastic chairs can often be repaired with plastic adhesive.

Clean the Area: Clean the cracked area thoroughly with a suitable cleaning solution and allow it to dry completely.
Apply Adhesive: Apply the plastic adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the adhesive penetrates the crack.
Clamp (if necessary): If the crack is large or in a high-stress area, clamp the pieces together while the adhesive cures.
Sand and Smooth: Once the adhesive is fully cured, sand any excess adhesive and smooth the surface.

Repairing Breaks and Splits

For breaks and splits, plastic welding offers a stronger repair.

Clean and Prepare: Clean the broken edges thoroughly and roughen them slightly with sandpaper to improve adhesion.
Plastic Welding: Following the instructions provided with your plastic welding kit, melt the plastic welding rods into the break or split, fusing the pieces together.
Reinforce (if needed): For added strength, consider reinforcing the repair with metal brackets or epoxy putty.
Smooth and Finish: Once the weld has cooled, sand and smooth the area for a seamless finish.

Repairing Leg Damage

Wobbly or broken legs require specific repairs to restore stability.

Assess the Damage: Determine the extent of the leg damage, whether it's a loose connection, a crack, or a complete break.
Tighten Loose Connections: If the leg is simply loose, tighten any screws or bolts securing it to the chair frame.
Repair Cracks or Breaks: Repair cracks or breaks using the methods described above for cracks and breaks.
Reinforce: For added strength, consider reinforcing the repaired leg with metal brackets or epoxy putty.
Replace (if necessary): If the leg is severely damaged, consider replacing it with a new leg if possible.

Addressing Fading and Discoloration

While not structural damage, fading can detract from the chair's appearance.

Clean the Chair: Thoroughly clean the chair to remove dirt and grime.
Apply Plastic Restorer: Apply a specialized plastic restorer product designed to revitalize faded plastic. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Consider Painting: For severely faded or discolored chairs, consider painting them with a durable outdoor plastic paint.

Preventing Future Damage

Regular maintenance can help prevent future damage and extend the life of your plastic outdoor chairs.

Regular Cleaning: Clean your chairs regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt and grime.
UV Protection: Store chairs in a shaded area or use covers to protect them from prolonged sun exposure, reducing fading and weakening of the plastic.
Proper Storage: Store chairs properly during the off-season to prevent damage from weather and other elements.