Great question. If you’re weighing the maintenance needs of our street benches against traditional cast iron ones, the short answer is: ours require significantly less upkeep. Let me break it down.
First, cast iron is notoriously susceptible to rust. Even with a protective coating, moisture, rain, and humidity can cause chipping and corrosion over time. That means you’re looking at regular sanding, repainting, and sealing every year or two to keep them looking decent. And if rust sets in deep, replacement is often the only option.
Our benches, on the other hand, are typically made from high-grade aluminum or powder-coated steel. Aluminum is naturally rust-proof, so you won’t have to worry about that creeping orange stain. The powder coating adds a durable, weather-resistant finish that holds up against UV rays and rain. Honestly, a simple rinse with a garden hose and an occasional wipe-down is all they need to look new.
Another maintenance headache with cast iron is weight. They’re heavy, which makes moving them for cleaning or painting a chore. Our benches are lighter, meaning you can shift them easily for cleaning or seasonal storage without hiring extra labor.
Also consider joints and fasteners. Cast iron benches often use bolts and screws that are exposed to the elements, leading to rusted hardware that’s a pain to replace. Our designs use hidden or stainless steel fasteners, so they stay secure and corrosion-free for years.
In short, if you want to minimize time, money, and effort spent on bench maintenance, our benches are the clear winner. Cast iron has a classic look, but it demands constant attention. Ours let you enjoy that classic aesthetic without the constant upkeep.