That's an excellent and very practical question! I completely understand your concern – the warm, natural aesthetic of wood is timeless, but the thought of splinters can certainly be a worry, especially on public seating. The good news is that for most well-made, modern urban benches, this is not a significant issue. Here’s why.
Firstly, the wood selected for public benches is typically a dense, durable hardwood like teak, oak, or ipe. These woods have a tight grain that naturally resists splitting. More importantly, they are almost always thoroughly treated and finished. You'll find that quality urban benches are sanded to a very smooth finish and then sealed with multiple coats of protective outdoor sealant, polyurethane, or oil. This coating creates a hard, continuous barrier over the wood, sealing the grain and preventing those tiny, loose fibers from becoming splinters.
Furthermore, responsible city maintenance plays a key role. Regular inspections and upkeep mean that any bench showing signs of wear, cracking, or surface damage is repaired or refinished promptly. The goal is to address potential problems long before a splinter could occur.
So, while no material is 100% maintenance-free forever, you can generally relax and enjoy the beauty of a wooden bench. To be extra sure, a quick visual check for any obvious cracks or rough patches is always a good idea. The combination of proper material selection, professional finishing, and ongoing care ensures that urban wooden benches offer their classic charm without the classic worry. Feel free to take a seat and enjoy!