That's an excellent and very practical question! When comparing costs between our recycled plastic park benches and traditional wood benches, it's important to look beyond just the initial price tag. Let's break it down honestly.
Initially, you will typically find that a high-quality recycled plastic bench has a higher upfront cost compared to a standard pressure-treated pine bench. You might see a price difference of 15% to 30% at the point of purchase. This is because the material itself – plastic lumber made from post-consumer bottles and containers – involves a sophisticated collection and manufacturing process.
However, this is where the comparison shifts dramatically. Traditional wood benches require consistent and costly maintenance to survive outdoors. Think about annual or bi-annual expenses for: sanding, re-staining or sealing, repairing splinters or rot, and eventually, full replacement parts or the entire bench after 10-15 years. These labor and material costs add up significantly over decades.
A recycled plastic bench, in contrast, has virtually zero maintenance costs. It won't rot, splinter, or crack. It never needs painting, staining, or sealing. It's resistant to insects and graffiti is easily removed. Its lifespan is often 2-3 times longer than wood, frequently lasting 30-50 years with minimal degradation.
So, while the initial investment is higher, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for recycled plastic is almost always lower over a 20-year period. You save massively on labor, materials, and disposal. Furthermore, you're investing in a product made from waste, reducing landfill burden and saving trees. The value isn't just in dollars saved, but in creating a durable, safe, and sustainable public space for generations.