I completely understand the concern—nobody wants to sit down and end up with a splinter. Yes, our wooden park benches are sanded smooth before finishing. In fact, sanding is one of the most important steps in our production process, not an afterthought.
After the wood is cut and shaped, we sand every surface and edge in multiple passes. We typically start with a coarser grit—around 80 or 100—to remove saw marks, sharp edges, and any rough grain. Then we move to a medium grit, usually 120 or 150, and finish with a fine grit, often 180 to 220, depending on the wood species. Rounded edges and armrests get extra attention because those are the places hands and legs touch most.
Before finishing, each bench is hand-checked. If a board feels fuzzy, splintery, or has a lifted grain, it goes back to sanding. We also wipe the wood down to remove dust so the finish can bond properly. After that, we apply a quality outdoor sealer or wood oil. This does two things: it locks down any remaining fine fibers and adds a protective layer against weather and wear.
That said, wood is a natural material. Over time, sun, rain, and temperature changes can cause small cracks or raised grain, especially on older outdoor furniture. That’s why we recommend a quick visual check once a season. Light surface sanding and a fresh coat of sealer can keep a bench feeling smooth for years.
So yes—if a bench leaves our shop rough enough to splinter, it doesn’t leave the shop. A smooth, safe seating surface is a basic requirement, not a special feature.