It's completely understandable to worry about splinters from wooden urban benches. That rough, weathered feel can be concerning! Let's put your mind at ease by exploring how these public fixtures are typically finished and maintained.
Most quality urban benches start with durable, weather-resistant woods like teak, cedar, or pressure-treated pine. The key to splinter prevention is in the finish. Initially, benches often receive a penetrating oil sealant or a film-forming exterior varnish. These products soak into the wood fibers, binding them together and creating a protective barrier against moisture—the main culprit behind wood swelling, cracking, and eventual splintering.
Common finishes you'll encounter include:
- Penetrating Oils: Like tung or linseed oil, which harden inside the wood.
- Marine-Grade Varnishes: Designed for extreme outdoor exposure.
- Solid-Color Stains: Offer UV protection and seal the surface.
- Specialized Polymer Coatings: Provide a durable, often matte, protective layer.
However, maintenance is crucial. Even the best finish degrades with constant sun, rain, and use. A bench that looks gray, feels rough, or has visible cracks is likely due for refinishing. If you encounter a bench in poor condition, it's best to avoid it and report it to local parks and recreation department.
To protect yourself, give the bench a quick visual and tactile check before sitting. Look for a smooth, intact surface. When in doubt, choosing metal or recycled plastic benches, often found in the same areas, is a foolproof alternative.
Ultimately, proper finishing and regular city maintenance are designed to make wooden benches safe and splinter-free for everyone to enjoy.