That's an excellent and very important question! The short answer is a resounding yes, you absolutely can—and should—request samples of the wood or metal finish before ordering your park benches. Any reputable manufacturer or supplier understands that this is a standard and critical step in the specification process, especially for commercial or public projects.
Think of it this way: you're making a significant investment in furniture meant to last for years outdoors. Seeing a small swatch online or in a catalog is simply not enough. A physical sample allows you to verify the true color, grain pattern, and texture of a wood species under natural light. For metal finishes like powder coating or galvanized steel, you can assess the exact hue, sheen, and smoothness of the coating.
Requesting samples protects your project. It ensures the finish aligns perfectly with your design vision and coordinates with surrounding structures. You can also perform practical tests: see how the wood sample reacts to a splash of water or feel the robustness of the metal finish. This hands-on verification prevents costly disappointments and ensures the final product meets your expectations for both aesthetics and durability.
When contacting suppliers, simply ask for their sample policy. Most are happy to provide small material swatches or even larger finish boards for a nominal fee, which is often credited back to your final order. Don't proceed without this crucial step—getting samples is the mark of a savvy buyer and is key to a successful, satisfying park bench installation.