How to choose a garden bench

The first question to ask yourself when choosing a bench is what you want to use it for. Cast iron benches have been used for a very long time (several centuries ago) in various construction and landscaping applications. In particular, they are widely used in the manufacture of park, garden, and other outdoor benches, serving as supporting elements and primarily as decorative elements.

 

If you want to use your bench for relaxation, solidity and comfort will be a priority. You should feel comfortable on the bench without fear of it giving way. You should also consider its size to determine how many people can sit on it at once.

If you simply want to decorate your garden or terrace, durability isn't important, as you won't be sitting on it. It's the visual aspect that's most important, even if it needs to last for several years in your garden without deteriorating.

Benches come with or without backrests, with or without armrests. Choosing a specific bench will not only impact the aesthetics of your garden but also your comfort. This choice will depend on the style you want to give your garden and the time you spend there. You can, for example, add cushions for added comfort. However, with some benches, this is impossible due to a gap between the back and seat, or the absence of a backrest altogether.

There are also benches with built-in storage. They can be used to store outdoor accessories such as balls, mats, or even pillows. Besides being aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, they also provide exercise.

You can also find "wooden tower" benches. These surround the trunk, allowing you to create a seating area in the shade of a large tree. Unique, they're perfect for creating a more intimate nook.

In addition to deciding whether you want to prioritize comfort or aesthetics in a bench, you should also consider whether you'll need to regularly replace it. Answering these questions will help you make your choice based on the characteristics of various bench construction materials.

Banks in the forest are aesthetically pleasing and warm. They will add rustic charm to your garden. They are easy to move, as they are usually quite lightweight. Therefore, you can decide to change its location regularly if you no longer like it. This type of bench is customizable; you can paint it to match the colors of your home's facade or create a unique look. A wooden bench requires regular maintenance to preserve it as long as possible.

You can also autoclave your bench. This treatment protects the wood from external influences, such as insects and bad weather. It also eliminates the need for maintenance. Sometimes autoclaved wood arrives still damp and stained. These stains will quickly disappear when exposed to sunlight. Soaking the piece in a bath doesn't always allow it to dry long enough.

If you need to change your bench regularly, opt for an aluminum one. Aluminum benches come in a variety of vibrant colors that will bring joy to your garden. You can install an orange, green, or blue bench, depending on the style you want to achieve for your garden. A wrought iron bench will be more romantic. It requires maintenance if you want it to stay rust-free and looking great for years to come. Steel benches are practical because they are durable and require little maintenance. However, they are quite expensive.