That's a very common and valid concern! Splinters from wooden park benches can definitely put a damper on outdoor enjoyment. The good news is that with proper treatment and maintenance, you can create a smooth, safe, and long-lasting surface. Here’s how professionals and maintenance crews typically prevent this issue.
The cornerstone of splinter prevention is a combination of proper initial preparation and ongoing care. First, the wood must start smooth. This involves thorough sanding with progressively finer grits of sandpaper (starting with 80-100 grit and finishing with 150-220 grit) to eliminate rough spots and raised wood grain. This step is crucial, even for new benches.
Next, the wood must be protected from moisture, which is the primary cause of splintering. Untreated wood absorbs water, swells, and then dries and contracts. This cycle causes the wood fibers to separate and lift, creating splinters. To stop this, a high-quality exterior wood sealant is essential. The best options include:
* Penetrating Oil Sealers: These soak into the wood, nourish it, and repel water while allowing the wood to breathe. They often need reapplication every 1-2 years.
* Spar Urethane or Marine Varnish: These create a harder, protective film on the surface. They are excellent for high-wear areas and offer strong UV protection, but may require more thorough surface prep and can eventually peel if not maintained.
* Specialized Outdoor Wood Oils: Products labeled for decking or outdoor furniture are formulated to withstand weathering.
The application process is key. Apply the sealant on a dry, clean bench according to the manufacturer's directions, ensuring complete and even coverage. Most projects require at least two coats.
Regular maintenance is non-negotiable. A simple annual inspection can catch problems early. Look for worn or graying areas, and feel for rough patches. Lightly sand any slightly raised grain and apply a fresh coat of sealant to those areas. For heavily used public benches, this check might be needed more frequently.
For an existing bench that already has splinters, the process is similar: sand the affected areas down until perfectly smooth, clean away all dust, and then apply a fresh protective sealant to the entire bench.
By committing to this process of sanding, sealing, and maintaining, you can effectively prevent splinters and ensure your wooden park benches remain a safe and welcoming place for everyone to relax for years to come.