metal bench Metal bench with a resilient thermoplastic coating

A metal bench is becoming a preferred choice for many maintenance supervisors, architects, and landscapers for one BIG reason - the coating.

In recent years, there have been tremendous technological advances made in the coatings that are now applied to a metal bench, compared to years before.

Previously, a metal bench might look great at first. But then after a few years subjected to the harsh elements - rain, freezing temperatures, UV rays - corrosion and rust might appear.

Given enough time, while steel might appear strong at first, eventually the combination of oxygen and water can cause a metal surface to become flaky and friable. It basically turns a smooth surface into a rusty mess.

But that was long ago.

Today, the coatings available for a metal bench are in a word, amazing.

Take thermoplastic for example.

With the thermoplastic process, the pre-heated metal bench and back is dipped into a fluidized bed of thermoplastic particles.

That bath basically immerses all the parts in the coating. This allows the polyethylene copolymer film to flow over every bit of the metal surface and get into all the corner, nooks and crannies.

This specialized plastic chemical has superior adhesion properties and fastens itself to the metal products.

Now that's complete and in-depth coverage.

The thick plastic then cools, creating a tough hardened surface. However, make note, this process also creates a smooth, conformed surface as well so there is no splintering or slivers that stick out.

metal bench Metal benc

Metal bench with thermoplastic coating means long-term durability

So here we have a metal bench that is in a way, coated with a Teflon-like substance.

What are the advantages?

  • Anti-corrosion - as we said, oxidation will ruin metal. But with a thick thermoplastic coating, oxygen and water can't get to the surface. So the metal bench won't be subject to corrosive degradation.
  • Weather-resistant - you can pour rain, dump snow and let the sun beat down on a thermoplastic metal bench. Those elements won't get through the thick coating.
  • UV resistance - this is another important consideration because the sun can be a detriment to outdoor furnishings since they are exposed to ultra-violet rays every day of the year, even on cloudy days. The sun's radiation combined with other elements will cause materials, such as wood fibers, to break down over the years. A thermoplastic coating on a metal bench is much tougher. It's so tough, in fact, that some manufacturers such as The Park and Facilities Catalog, will back up their thermoplastic coated products with a 5-year warranty. That's much better than the standard one-year warranty for commercial site furnishings.
  • No mold or mildew - organic creatures like to penetrate and adhere to different surfaces. That can't be done with a slick thermoplastic coating.

    metal bench colors Metal bench color

  • Salt spray resistance - if your facility is located near the ocean, or in an area where trucks spray salt during the winter months, a metal bench with a thermoplastic coating is definitely a smart option. We all know what salt can do to any material. Be sure to get the best protection.
  • Smooth surface - as we said the thermoplastic coating provides a smooth, flat surface. So there is no need to worry about splinters, flaking, slivers or rough edges.
  • Less damage from cuts and easy to repair - a thermoplastic-protected metal bench is hard to scratch and cut. If there is damage, there's a very simple solution. A small batch of thermoplastic powder can be melted by a standard heat gun and then applied to the surface. The melted plastic will flow into the damaged area and then cool, bonding to the surrounding surface. (For more information on thermoplastic repair, see this video).
  • Low or no maintenance - this is a BIG advantage for parks and recreation departments and any facility for that matter. A metal bench requires very little maintenance. If it is dirty, it can be easily cleaned, generally with soap and water or an industrial cleaner. The surface does not deteriorate like wood, so there is no need to sand and refinish this type of metal bench. Once it's up, it's done.
  • Anti-graffiti properties - kids will be kids. But kids with cans of spray paint can be especially bothersome. Not only will they use that spray paint to deface a perfectly good bench, but many will also paint offensive words on the surface. Nobody wants a family planning a nice outing at a park to come across this vulgarity and ugliness. Spray paint has a hard time adhering to a thermoplastic surface. In most cases, a maintenance worker can easily clean the metal bench with a simple industrial solvent. Case closed.
  • Environmental concerns - there has been much negative publicity about the uses of PVCs (polyvinyl chloride) and their harmful effects on the environment. With the thermoplastic coatings used by The Park and Facilities Catalog, these toxic chemicals are not used in the manufacturing process.
  • Color retention - when it comes to aesthetics, thermoplastic coatings are the way to go. The initial powdered substance can be made in a variety of vibrant, beautiful colors. For example, with the Park and Facilities Catalog you can order a metal bench in red, burgundy, blue, a brighter "ultra blue," green, brown, beige and black. With a thermoplastic coating, these colors are less likely to fade and can retain their brilliance for many years. That makes for a pleasing, eye-catching addition to any landscape.

New perforated surfaces reduce heat and spills

metal bench patterns Metal bench patterns and choice of corner

Here's another note about the plusses of using a metal bench.

Metal benches can come with full standard seats and back like you would see on a traditional wooden bench.

Or, there is the option to choose perforated metal surfaces.

These perforated surfaces have advantages too.

For one, because there are a bunch of holes in the surface, air can pass through and the benches won't heat up like a full metal surface.

Secondly, because of the perforations, water and spills flow right through. So you can imagine the damage a bunch of youngsters or school children can do to bench if they knock over their fruit juice boxes or sodas. With a perforated metal bench, most of that liquid will pass right through and end up on the ground.

As for looks, you can order a perforated bench with different patterns as well - standard circular perforations or a diamond pattern. Rounded corners are also available for added comfort.

A steel strap metal bench with openings between the metal offers similar advantages as well.

For cost savings, many thermoplastic metal benches are supported by a metal frame underneath that is powder-coated. That powder coating is also resistant to corrosion and rust.

The environment can be brutal on outdoor products. So can humans.

Add a metal bench with a resilient covering that can take the punishment and still remain an attractive respite for visitors, employees, customers, and students.