How can I make a park bench more sturdy?

Question

I purchased a park bench for my patio

But it's a little on the flimsy side and I'm afraid someone is going to throw themselves down on it and it's going to break. In what way can I strengthen the bench and possibly increase the weight capacity? The arms are cast iron and the bench has wooden slats. I was thinking of purchasing thicker wood and having it cut into slats but I'm not sure if that would really be the best way to do it.

Michael Karas · Answer

One way you may be able to lower the amount of springiness in the seat slats is to add some hardwood strips to the bottom of each slat. These could be attached with sturdy wood screws similar to as shown below. These can be added as long as possible but just short of the current slat mounting to the cast iron frame.

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Dan · Answer

I cut two 2x4s screwed them together and placed under middle of slats, and screwed to the slats above. It is much stronger now will not break if a heavy person sits on it
I have 3 benches in 2 homes. I strengthened all three the same way

How can I make a park bench more sturdy?

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