That's an excellent question, and one that concerns many people enjoying a day at the park. The short answer is yes, temperature significantly affects metal park benches. Metal is an excellent conductor of heat, which means it quickly absorbs and releases thermal energy from its surroundings.
On a hot, sunny day, a metal bench can become too hot to sit on comfortably. The dark-colored surfaces, in particular, can absorb intense solar radiation, reaching temperatures high enough to potentially cause discomfort or even minor skin irritation. We always advise checking the surface with your hand before sitting down.
Conversely, during cold winter months, a metal bench will feel intensely cold to the touch. It can rapidly draw heat away from your body, making the sitting experience quite chilly and unpleasant, even through layers of clothing.
However, modern park design often addresses this. Many contemporary metal benches incorporate design elements to mitigate these issues. You might find benches with wider slats that have less contact area, or designs that use wood or recycled plastic composites for the seating surface, while the frame remains metal. Furthermore, powder-coated or light-colored finishes can help reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption.
So, while the inherent properties of metal make it susceptible to temperature extremes, thoughtful design and a little awareness from users—like choosing a bench in the shade—can ensure a comfortable experience in most weather conditions.