Benches are excellent seating options for transient and outdoor areas. For example, they can be placed near the entrance of large estates so that guests can sit while they wait for clearance to go inside. They are also common in bus terminals and train stations where those who are sitting are unlikely to be there for very long. They are simple, easy to install, and highly practical. However, you might want to look into the different materials available. There are plenty of wooden and plastic benches, but stainless steel benches are often preferred because of the following characteristics:
Excellent Durability
Stainless steel is highly durable. You will not be able to scratch, dent, or bend it that easily. It can support a good amount of weight before showing any signs of stress. If designed well, then benches made from this material can survive for many years and look like they are still brand new. That is the kind of quality you want for a seat that will be used by random people day in and day out. You will not always be in control of their behavior so be on the safe side with a stainless steel bench that can shrug off abuse.
Heat Resistance
Another good thing about steel is that it is heat resistant. That is the reason why most industrial kitchens use stainless steel as the primary material for the counters, tables, sinks, and other work spaces. A lot of kitchen appliances are made of this as well. Although you will seldom see benches inside kitchens, they may still be placed in areas where heat is a major issue. Consider open gardens or public parks where the sun can beat down on the seats. Wooden benches can crack and wrap as they are subjected to the rising temperatures. Meanwhile, steel will expand slightly but will return to normal once it cool down.
Moisture Resistance
Another major concern is moisture since a lot of materials absorb water and get destroyed from the inside. These include wood and certain stones. If water gets through their surfaces, then the whole structure might weaken. Wooden ones may even begin to rot after a while. This is why wood benches should not be used for outdoor seating in regions that get a great deal of rain and snow. Metal is preferable. Just be careful to choose a type of metal that does not succumb to corrosion like stainless steel.
Ease of Maintenance
Owners of these benches will not have to worry about maintenance as occasional wipes are all that is needed to keep them looking good.
