Great question! I get asked this a lot, and I’m happy to break it down for you. The short answer is: we use a thoughtful mix of both recycled and virgin materials, depending on the specific bench model and the performance requirements of each component. Our goal is always to balance durability, safety, and environmental responsibility.
For the wood slats on many of our classic park benches, we primarily use FSC-certified virgin hardwood like teak or oak. We choose virgin wood because it offers unmatched structural integrity and longevity in outdoor conditions. However, we also offer a dedicated “Eco-Line” where the wood is 100% recycled plastic lumber made from post-consumer HDPE—think old milk jugs and detergent bottles. That material never rots, never needs painting, and keeps tons of plastic out of landfills.
For the metal frames and legs, we use a blend. Our standard steel frames are made from about 30% recycled scrap steel, which is standard in the industry and still delivers the strength you need for public seating. We also have a premium recycled aluminum option that uses up to 80% post-industrial recycled content. So if you’re looking for the most recycled-heavy bench, go with our recycled plastic lumber top paired with the recycled aluminum frame.
One thing we never compromise on is quality. Whether a component is virgin or recycled, every piece is tested for weather resistance, UV stability, and load capacity. We also publish a full material breakdown on each product page, so you always know exactly what you’re sitting on.
If you have a specific bench in mind, tell me the model name and I’ll give you the exact percentages. In the meantime, our “Eco-Line” benches are the best choice if you want maximum recycled content without sacrificing performance. Thanks for caring about where your outdoor furniture comes from—it makes a real difference.