Patio Recliner Pair Covers: Measure Footrests, Back Angles, Bases, and Spacing

A pair of patio recliners looks symmetrical only when both chairs are parked the same way. One partly raised footrest or tilted back changes the overall depth, height, and tension points. A custom patio recliner pair cover should follow a stable side-by-side arrangement with the mechanisms fully at rest.

Before measuring, remove people, pets, throws, and loose pillows. Clean and dry the chairs, then follow the manufacturer’s instructions to close footrests, park swivels, and set back angles. Never sit, recline, swivel, rock, or move either chair while the shared cover is installed.

Park Both Recliners the Same Way

Place both chairs on level paving with footrests fully closed and backs in the approved storage position. Align their fronts and leave the intended gap between arms. Photograph the pair from every side. Mark any swivel orientation or locking feature that helps you recreate the same measured arrangement.

Measure the Combined Pair Envelope

Follow How to Measure and record maximum group width, depth, and height. Measure across the outer arms, rear back angle, and front footrest housings. Do not calculate width from two catalog dimensions because the center gap and angled bases can alter the true footprint.

Record Back Angles Without Compressing Cushions

Measure each rigid back from the floor and document its rearward projection. Note headrest wings, handles, seams, and attached cushions at their relaxed thickness. If one chair differs, record both sides. The cover should clear the higher rigid point without using fabric tension to hold the backs upright.

Map Closed Footrests and Linkages

Confirm that each footrest is fully retracted. Measure the front panel, side gaps, pull handles, and lowest linkage according to the maker’s safe storage position. Do not route straps through moving hardware. The cover must come off before anyone touches the release lever or electrical controls.

Capture Bases, Rockers, and Swivel Footprints

Measure pedestal diameter, rocker rails, fixed feet, or splayed legs at floor level. A narrow seat can sit on a wide rotating base. Identify a repeatable forward orientation and the lowest strong frame locations, but never use cover closures as a brake or substitute for an approved swivel or rocker lock.

Set the Center Gap and Outer Spacing

Measure the clear distance between inner arms at the front and back. Decide whether a small side table is excluded. Also record clearance from walls, railings, planters, and steps. The pair must remain independently stable; a shared cover should not pull the chairs together or carry their weight.

Select Fabric for Curves and Frequent Removal

Compare drape, water behavior, UV resistance, abrasion performance, and finished weight on Our Fabrics. Explore Patio Furniture Covers. Recliner backs and arm rolls benefit from a fabric that can follow curves without being dragged across linkages or rough base edges.

Plan Drainage Between the Chairs

The valley between two backs or seat crowns may collect water. Record the high points and center gap so the reviewed design can encourage runoff. Use only stable supports approved for the furniture. Do not stuff loose objects between the chairs or leave cushions damp beneath the cover.

Use Clear Left-and-Right Orientation

Mark the front, left chair, and one upper corner. Set the cover over both back tops, guide it around the arms, and lower the front panels over the closed footrests. Fasten only after the fabric hangs freely. Remove the entire cover and all closures before separating or operating the chairs.

Prepare the Recliner-Pair Fit Brief

Send the parked back angle, closed footrest details, pair width, center gap, depth, height, base type, swivel orientation, cushion plan, hem height, exposure, and labeled photos. Review the Patio Recliner Pair Cover or Request a Quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should the footrests be open when I measure?

No. Use the maker-approved parked position, normally with footrests fully closed, and remove the cover before operation.

Can one shared cover hold the chairs together?

No. Each chair must stand securely on its own. The cover is weather protection, not a structural restraint.

What if the chairs have different back heights?

Measure both and identify the higher and lower profiles so the pattern can follow the actual asymmetric pair.

Turn the Measurements Into a Clear Cover Brief

A dependable made-to-measure cover starts with one repeatable storage position, complete dimensions, labeled photos, safe-use limits, and a realistic handling routine. CoversForge can review fit, fabric, access, exposure, and quantity for the documented application. Request a Quote when the specification is ready.