Yes, the spacing between slats on park benches is absolutely crucial and is intentionally designed for drainage. This isn't an afterthought; it's a key engineering consideration for outdoor furniture. The primary purpose of these gaps is to allow rainwater to pass through quickly rather than pooling on the seat. Pooled water leads to accelerated wood rot, metal corrosion, unsightly stains, and creates a soggy seat long after the rain stops.
Typically, a spacing of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6mm to 12mm) is standard. This gap is wide enough to facilitate rapid water runoff but narrow enough to remain comfortable for seating and prevent items from falling through. The spacing must be consistent across the entire bench surface. Furthermore, the slats are often slightly angled or crowned (higher in the middle) to direct water toward these gaps. The bench frame is also designed to not block this runoff path.
Altering this spacing can have significant consequences. Wider gaps may compromise comfort and safety, while narrower gaps will trap water, defeating the drainage purpose and drastically shortening the bench's usable life. When designing or specifying park benches, this precise spacing is a non-negotiable feature for durability, user comfort, and reduced long-term maintenance costs.