That's an excellent question! Many people share your concern about wooden park benches, as splinters can certainly put a damper on enjoying a beautiful outdoor space. Fortunately, modern bench design and maintenance have come a long way in addressing this very issue.
The primary defense against splinters is the initial processing of the wood. The benches you see in public parks are not made from raw, unfinished lumber. The wood is meticulously sanded and planed to a remarkably smooth surface. This process removes any rough patches or loose wood fibers that could potentially become splinters.
Furthermore, the wood is almost always treated with protective coatings. These can include high-quality outdoor sealants, varnishes, or oils. These coatings serve a dual purpose: they protect the wood from moisture, rot, and insect damage, and they effectively seal the wood's surface. This creates a hard, smooth shell that locks fibers in place, preventing them from lifting and becoming splinters. You'll often find that benches made from hardwoods like teak, oak, or ipe are naturally more resistant to splintering due to their dense grain.
Regular maintenance is the final, crucial piece of the puzzle. Park management teams typically have schedules for inspecting, cleaning, and lightly sanding benches to address any wear and tear before it becomes a problem. If a section does become rough, it can be spot-sanded and re-sealed.
So, you can rest easy! The combination of careful manufacturing, protective treatments, and ongoing upkeep means you can confidently enjoy the classic, natural aesthetic of a wooden park bench without worrying about splinters. It's all part of creating a safe and inviting public environment for everyone to enjoy.