That's an excellent question, and it gets to the heart of why many parks and public spaces are making the switch. When comparing durability, recycled plastic benches consistently outperform traditional wooden ones in several key areas.
First, let's talk about longevity and decay. Wood, even pressure-treated lumber, is inherently organic and susceptible to rot, insect infestation (like termites), and splintering over time. Moisture is its enemy. A recycled plastic bench, however, is essentially inert. It won't rot, rust, or splinter. It's completely immune to insects and won't absorb water, which is the primary cause of wood's deterioration.
Next, consider weather resistance. Wood expands and contracts with temperature and moisture changes, leading to warping, cracking, and loose fasteners. The color fades and the surface degrades unless regularly stained or sealed. Recycled plastic benches are designed to withstand extreme temperature swings without warping. Their color is molded throughout the entire material, so it won't peel, fade significantly, or require painting. They handle sun, rain, snow, and salt air far better.
Maintenance is where the difference becomes stark. A wooden bench requires a cycle of sanding, staining, or sealing every 1-3 years to maintain its integrity and appearance. This is costly and labor-intensive. A recycled plastic bench needs virtually no maintenance. An occasional wash with soap and water is all it takes to look new. There are no nails to tighten or splinters to sand.
In terms of structural integrity, high-quality recycled plastic benches use thick, molded planks and often have steel or aluminum frames inside for added strength. They are designed to handle heavy public use without the risk of the material fatiguing like wood can.
So, in summary: while a well-maintained wooden bench may last 10-15 years, a recycled plastic bench can easily last 20-30 years or more with almost zero upkeep. The initial investment is often higher, but the total cost of ownership is typically lower due to the eliminated maintenance costs and vastly extended service life. You're choosing a durable, "install-and-forget" solution that also keeps plastic waste out of landfills.