That's an excellent and very practical question! When comparing prices upfront, traditional wooden benches often appear to have a lower initial purchase cost. However, a direct price comparison requires looking at the total cost of ownership over time.
Typically, a high-quality recycled plastic park bench might have a higher initial price tag than a standard pressure-treated pine bench. You could expect to pay a premium of perhaps 20% to 50% more for the plastic option, depending on the design, manufacturer, and volume.
But here's the crucial perspective: that initial price doesn't tell the whole story. Wooden benches require regular maintenance—sealing, staining, or painting every 1-2 years to prevent rot, splintering, and insect damage. This adds significant labor and material costs over the bench's lifespan. In contrast, recycled plastic benches are virtually maintenance-free. They won't rot, crack, or splinter, and they never need painting. Their color is molded throughout the material.
Therefore, when you factor in a decade or more of service, the total cost of a recycled plastic bench often becomes equal to or even lower than that of a wooden bench. You're investing in durability and saving on long-term upkeep. Additionally, by choosing recycled plastic, you're supporting a circular economy and reducing plastic waste, which adds intangible value to your community space.
So, while the sticker price might be higher, think of it as paying more upfront for significant savings and peace of mind down the road.