Walking through a beautiful park and spotting the perfect wooden bench to rest on is one of urban life's simple pleasures. However, the worry about getting a splinter can sometimes make you hesitate. Fortunately, cities and landscape architects employ several effective strategies to ensure public wooden benches are smooth and safe for everyone.
The first line of defense is the choice of wood itself. Instead of using cheap, untreated lumber, municipalities typically select hardwoods or specially treated softwoods known for their durability and resistance to splintering. Common choices include teak, cedar, and ipe, which are naturally dense and weather-resistant.
More importantly, most public benches are made from pressure-treated wood. This process forces preservatives deep into the wood fibers, which not only protects against rot and insects but also hardens the wood, making it less prone to cracking and splintering over time.
The final finish is equally crucial. Benches are often sealed with durable, penetrating oils or robust outdoor sealants. These coatings create a protective barrier that repels moisture—a key cause of wood swelling and splintering—and they lock the wood fibers in place. Many are also sanded to a remarkably smooth finish, sometimes with rounded edges, to eliminate any initial roughness.
Regular maintenance is the unsung hero of splinter prevention. Park maintenance crews perform routine inspections, looking for signs of wear. If a rough spot is found, they sand it down and reapply a protective sealant, preventing a small issue from becoming a major hazard.
For ultimate safety, many cities are now incorporating alternative materials. You'll often see benches with metal frames and wooden slats, or ones made entirely from recycled plastic lumber, which offers the classic look of wood with zero risk of splinters.
Despite these measures, if you do encounter a rough bench, it's best to choose another one or place a blanket down. If you get a splinter, clean the area and use clean tweezers to remove it promptly. By understanding the careful planning and upkeep behind urban furniture, you can relax and enjoy your moment of rest with greater peace of mind.