That nagging worry about getting a splinter from a public wooden bench is understandable. Fortunately, urban planners and maintenance crews employ several effective strategies to prevent this common nuisance, ensuring public seating is both comfortable and safe.
The first line of defense is the wood itself. Many municipalities use hardwoods like teak, oak, or ipe. These woods have a tight, dense grain that is naturally more resistant to splintering and weathering. Alternatively, they might use pressure-treated lumber, which is infused with chemicals to repel moisture and resist rot, two factors that can cause wood to break down and splinter.
Before a bench is ever installed, it undergoes a crucial process: thorough sanding. This isn't a quick once-over. The wood is sanded with progressively finer grits of sandpaper to create a perfectly smooth, splinter-free surface that is pleasant to the touch.
The most critical step is the application of a protective sealant. A high-quality sealant, such as a penetrating oil, varnish, or polyurethane, is applied in multiple coats. This finish seals the wood pores, creating a hard, protective shell. It prevents moisture from rain or snow from being absorbed into the wood, which causes it to swell, crack, and eventually splinter. A good sealant also protects against the damaging effects of UV rays from the sun.
Prevention doesn't stop after installation. Proactive and regular maintenance is key. City crews perform scheduled inspections, looking for signs of wear, cracking, or the early stages of splintering. When found, these areas are promptly sanded down and resealed. In cases of significant damage, individual planks or entire benches are replaced to maintain public safety.
As a user, you can also spot a well-maintained bench. Look for a smooth, finished surface without visible cracks or raised wood grain. If a bench looks weathered, cracked, or feels rough, it's best to avoid it. If you do get a splinter, remove it carefully with tweezers and clean the area thoroughly to prevent infection.
Through careful material selection, meticulous finishing, and diligent upkeep, cities work hard to ensure that their wooden benches are a welcoming place for rest, not a source of splinters.