That's an excellent question, and it gets to the heart of what makes a great park bench. For our traditional park benches, we primarily use dense, durable hardwoods known for their natural resistance to the elements. The top choices are Premium Teak, White Oak, and Ipe (Brazilian Walnut). These species are celebrated for their incredible strength, rich grain, and innate oils that resist moisture, rot, and insect damage.
Yes, the wood is absolutely treated, but our approach prioritizes longevity and environmental safety. We use a two-fold method:
1. Klin-Drying: First, all lumber is carefully kiln-dried to stabilize the wood, minimizing future warping or cracking.
2. Protective Oil or Sealant: We then apply a penetrating, non-toxic oil-based sealant or a specialized outdoor finish. This treatment is not a superficial coat; it soaks into the wood fibers to provide a deep barrier against water, UV rays, and mildew. It enhances the wood's natural color and protects it without forming a plastic-like film that can peel.
This combination of selecting the right wood and applying a thoughtful treatment ensures our benches can withstand decades of sun, rain, and public use, developing a beautiful silvery-gray patina over time while maintaining structural integrity. We avoid cheap, softwoods that decay quickly and steer clear of harsh chemical pressure-treatments containing arsenic or copper, making our benches safe for people and the environment. The goal is to create a timeless, maintenance-friendly bench that becomes a lasting part of the community landscape.