Outdoor Chairs with a laced or strung design — often found in patio loungers, zero-gravity recliners, and bungee-style seats — provide excellent flexibility and comfort. However, after prolonged exposure to sunlight, moisture, and stretching, the cords can lose elasticity or break. Restringing your outdoor chairs is a simple and affordable way to restore their support, appearance, and comfort without purchasing new furniture.

Understanding Outdoor Chair Restringing

Most outdoor chairs use elastic bungee cords, vinyl laces, or polyester strings to connect the seat and backrest fabric to the frame. These cords are tensioned to provide firm, flexible support. Over time, they deteriorate due to UV exposure or repeated use. Replacing the old cords with new weather-resistant strings ensures that the chair regains its original structure and feel.

Step 1: Gather the Tools and Materials

Before you begin, prepare everything you’ll need for restringing your chair.

You will need:

• Replacement cord (elastic bungee or vinyl lace, ¼ inch thick recommended)

• Measuring tape

• Scissors

• Pliers or needle-nose pliers

• Screwdriver or Allen wrench

• Lacing tool or small hook (optional)

When buying replacement cords, look for UV-resistant, outdoor-grade bungee cords or vinyl lace kits specifically designed for patio chairs. They are usually available in rolls or precut sets for standard lounge chair sizes.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Cord

If your chair still has the old cord, measure its total length before removing it. If it’s broken, measure the full path along one side of the chair frame to estimate the required length. Add about 10% extra for tying knots and adjustments.

For most zero-gravity or Lounge Chairs, each side usually requires between 18 to 22 feet of cord. Cut the cord into two equal pieces — one for the seat section and one for the backrest.

Step 3: Remove the Old Cord

Lay the chair on a flat surface. Using pliers or your hands, untie or unclip the old cord from the frame. Some chairs have cord loops secured under caps or bolts — use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen these parts carefully. Remove all remnants of the old cord and discard them.

Before installing the new cord, inspect the frame for sharp edges, rust, or cracks that might damage the new laces. Clean the frame thoroughly with mild soap and water, and let it dry completely.

Step 4: Start the Restringing Process

Begin at the top or bottom end of the chair (depending on its design). Thread one end of the cord through the first hole or loop in the fabric and then through the corresponding hole in the frame. Pull it tight and tie a secure knot or double-loop at the starting point.

Continue lacing the cord in a zigzag pattern — from fabric to frame, back and forth — maintaining even tension throughout. Make sure the fabric panel remains centered as you move upward or downward.

If your chair has a long backrest and seat combined, you may need to restring them in two separate sections to maintain equal tension.

Step 5: Adjust and Secure the Tension

Once you’ve laced one side, check that the cord has consistent tension — not too tight to prevent reclining, but not too loose that the fabric sags. Adjust by gently pulling on the cord or shifting knots before tying the final end securely.

Repeat the process on the opposite side, mirroring the pattern. Both sides should have equal cord tension for proper balance and comfort. Trim off any excess cord, leaving at least 2 inches for future tightening if needed.

Step 6: Test the Chair

After completing the restringing, sit gently on the chair to test its firmness and balance. If the seat feels uneven, tighten or loosen specific sections of the cord. Double-check all knots and connections to ensure they’re secure.

Once you’re satisfied with the comfort and stability, cut off any extra ends and melt them slightly (if using nylon or polyester cords) to prevent fraying.

Step 7: Maintain the New Cords

To extend the lifespan of your newly restrung chair:

• Keep it under shade when not in use to reduce UV damage.

• Rinse occasionally with clean water to remove dirt and salt.

• Avoid overstretching or jumping onto the chair to preserve cord elasticity.

• Replace cords every 2–3 years for optimal support and appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using indoor cords: Non-outdoor materials degrade quickly under sunlight.

• Uneven lacing: Unequal tension can cause fabric sagging or frame warping.

• Skipping frame cleaning: Dirt or rust can wear down new cords prematurely.

• Overtightening: Excess tension can tear the fabric or stress the frame.

Recommended outdoor furniture

For those seeking maintenance-free comfort, Sunstone Outdoor offers a wide range of ergonomic lounge and mesh chairs with high-quality elastic cord systems designed for long-term durability. Our cords are UV-stabilized, weather-resistant, and pre-tensioned to provide lasting comfort without frequent restringing. Each design blends contemporary aesthetics with exceptional performance, perfect for both residential and commercial outdoor spaces.

Conclusion

Restringing outdoor chairs is an easy, affordable way to restore functionality and comfort. With the right materials, proper measurements, and even tension, your chairs can look and perform like new again. Regular care and high-quality cords ensure years of reliable use. For a more permanent, low-maintenance solution, consider upgrading to premium outdoor seating from Sunstone Outdoor, engineered to resist stretching, fading, and wear across all seasons.