If you've noticed unsightly scratches on your concrete or asphalt driveway from your outdoor trash bin, you're not alone. The metal base of heavy bins can quickly damage paved surfaces. Fortunately, preventing this is straightforward and doesn't require special skills.
The most effective solution is creating a protective barrier. You have several excellent options:
1. Use a Rubber Mat: Place a heavy-duty rubber mat underneath the bin. This is my top recommendation. Mats designed for outdoor use won't absorb water and provide excellent cushioning. Look for a mat slightly larger than your bin's base.
2. Install Felt Pads: Adhesive felt pads, often used for furniture, work surprisingly well. Clean the bottom of the bin thoroughly, then apply several pads to distribute the weight evenly. Replace them when they show significant wear.
3. Create a Paver Platform: For a permanent solution, place a flat concrete paver or stone slab where you keep your bin. Roll the bin onto this platform. It elevates the metal base slightly and takes the abrasion instead of your pavement.
4. Apply Outdoor Carpet: A small square of indoor-outdoor carpet can serve as a simple, inexpensive buffer.
Whichever method you choose, ensure the surface and the bin's base are clean before installation to prevent grinding debris into your pavement. These simple steps will preserve your pavement's appearance and prevent costly repairs down the line, keeping both your property and your trash bin in great condition.