ᐅ Casters for granite patio umbrella bases?

We have a granite umbrella base weighing 80 kg (176 lbs). Since we need to move it frequently depending on the sun’s position, having wheels would be practical.
Now I’m wondering if and how it’s possible to install wheels myself? I have already researched this but found varying opinions. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find anyone who has done this themselves and can share personal experience.

So far, this is what I have gathered:

• Wheels can be attached either by screws or by adhesive
• When drilling, maintain enough distance from the edges, at least 3 cm (1.2 inches)

What remains unclear to me is whether gluing or screwing is the better option. Also, I would prefer wheels that do not rust. However, I could only find galvanized wheels, none made of stainless steel. Does anyone have a recommendation?

jaeger schrieb:

However, I could only find galvanized casters, not stainless steel ones.

If you search for "swivel caster" and "stainless steel," you'll find plenty of options. I would prefer drilling and using anchors with screws, but I’m not experienced with drilling and anchoring into very hard stone. I would attach two swivel casters with brakes and two fixed casters (the ones without swiveling function) per granite stand, or just use four swivel casters since fixed casters can't be locked. The swivel casters should be as low-profile as possible, otherwise your center of gravity will be higher and the stand will tip over more easily. It also depends on the size of your stone. You should expect to pay around €20 (approx. $22) per caster.

Would it be possible to attach the post to a board with casters? That way, you wouldn’t have to drill into the stone.

HoisleBauer22 schrieb:

I’m not experienced with drilling and anchoring into very hard stone.

Basically, it’s not a problem as long as you have proper tools; otherwise, the drill bit will break before you make a hole. With thin material thicknesses, you need to be careful not to cause cracking when using a rotary hammer and to avoid going all the way through at the top. 80 kg is then about... 5-6 cm (2-2.5 inches) thick?

I would rather recommend using a small cart in this case; maybe a furniture dolly would work well?

Thank you for your responses.

Fuchsbau35 schrieb:

Would it be possible to glue the stud to a board with wheels? That way you wouldn’t need to drill into the stone.

Theoretically yes, but it probably wouldn’t look very appealing.

WilderSueden schrieb:
80 kg (176 lbs), so about 5–6 cm (2–2.4 inches) thick?

I would rather go for the option with a small trolley; maybe a furniture dolly would work well?

It’s about 7 cm (2.8 inches).
A furniture dolly is okay for temporary use but is a bit too small and, secondly, the wheels cannot be locked, which is problematic in windy conditions. ;-)

A board with casters, which could also be made of metal, had the advantage that the casters might be positioned closer to the edge. This would make it more stable. The color can be matched to the stone.