That's an excellent and very practical question! Thinking beyond basic cleaning is what separates a bench that lasts a season from one that endures for decades. Yes, there are several potential ongoing costs associated with maintaining outdoor benches, and being aware of them helps with long-term planning and budgeting.
The most common ongoing cost is for protective treatments and finishes. Wooden benches require regular re-staining, sealing, or oiling—typically every 1-3 years—to repel water, block UV rays, and prevent rot. The cost of quality sealant, stain, or outdoor oil adds up over time. For metal benches, you may need periodic touch-up paint or rust inhibitor sprays to combat corrosion, especially in humid or coastal climates.
Repair costs are another consideration. This includes replacing loose or broken hardware like screws, bolts, or brackets. For wooden benches, you might need to replace a cracked slat or a wobbly leg. For metal benches, welding a broken joint might be necessary. While DIY repairs save labor, the materials are an ongoing expense.
Part replacement can be a significant cost. Cushions, pillows, or canopy fabrics for patio benches degrade in the sun and rain and need replacement every few seasons. For some modern materials like recycled plastic or vinyl, while low-maintenance, individual parts may be costly or impossible to replace if they crack.
In some cases, professional services become an ongoing cost. For heavy stone, concrete, or intricate iron benches, you might need to hire professionals for deep cleaning, re-leveling on uneven ground, or major repairs that are beyond DIY skills.
Finally, consider the indirect cost of your time. The labor involved in sanding, reapplying finishes, or making repairs has value. Opting for higher-quality, low-maintenance materials initially often reduces these ongoing time and expense investments.
Proactive maintenance incurs these modest, periodic costs but ultimately saves money by dramatically extending your bench's life, delaying the major expense of full replacement. It’s an investment in preserving your outdoor comfort and style.