That's an excellent question, and it gets to the heart of why many parks, schools, and municipalities are making the switch. When comparing longevity, recycled plastic benches often emerge as the superior long-term investment against both wood and traditional metal.
Let's break it down versus wood first. A traditional wooden bench, even pressure-treated, has a natural enemy: the elements. It's susceptible to rotting, warping, splintering, and insect damage. Its lifespan typically ranges from 5 to 15 years with significant annual maintenance like sealing, staining, or sanding. Our recycled plastic benches, however, are inert. They won't rot, splinter, or attract pests. They are impervious to moisture, resisting the decay that inevitably claims wood. With minimal care—usually just a wash with soap and water—they can last 50 years or more without losing their structural integrity.
Compared to metal, the contest is about corrosion and comfort. Metal benches, especially standard steel, can rust and corrode over time, particularly in coastal or high-moisture environments. This weakens the structure and leads to flaking, staining, and eventual failure. Powder coating helps but can chip. Recycled plastic is completely corrosion-proof. It won't rust, peel, or require repainting. In terms of user comfort, plastic maintains a more moderate temperature than metal, which can become scorching hot in summer or freezing cold in winter.
The key to this longevity is the material itself. Made from post-consumer plastics like milk jugs and detergent bottles, these benches are engineered for endurance. They contain UV stabilizers to prevent fading and cracking from sun exposure. They are heavy and rigid, resisting tipping and wear from constant use.
So, in terms of pure longevity and total cost of ownership, recycled plastic benches outperform both. They outlast wood without the decay and eliminate the corrosion and thermal issues of metal. You invest once, and enjoy a maintenance-free, durable, and eco-friendly seating solution for decades to come. It's a win for your budget and the planet.