When selecting park benches for coastal areas, the corrosive power of salt air cannot be underestimated. The constant exposure to salty mist accelerates corrosion, turning beautiful benches into rusty, weakened structures surprisingly quickly. After evaluating common bench materials, marine-grade stainless steel (particularly 316 grade) emerges as the champion for salt air resistance. This alloy contains molybdenum, which provides exceptional protection against chloride corrosion found in marine environments.
Aluminum presents another excellent option, as it naturally forms a protective oxide layer that prevents rusting. While not as strong as steel, aluminum benches are lightweight, durable, and require minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning. For those considering steel benches, powder-coated steel offers good protection when the coating remains intact, but any chip or scratch becomes a vulnerability point where corrosion can begin.
Traditional wood benches, while aesthetically pleasing, generally perform poorly in coastal settings unless made from exceptionally dense, rot-resistant species like teak or ipe. Even these require regular sealing and maintenance. Plastic or recycled plastic lumber benches resist corrosion well but may become brittle and fade under intense UV exposure. For maximum longevity in salt-air environments, marine-grade stainless steel represents your most reliable investment, followed by aluminum and properly maintained powder-coated steel.