On a sunny day, the metal surfaces of urban outdoor furniture—like park benches, picnic tables, and public art—can become dangerously hot surprisingly fast. Depending on factors like the type of metal, color, and ambient temperature, metal can heat up to burn-inducing temperatures within minutes of direct sun exposure.
Dark-colored or black metal absorbs the most solar radiation and heats up the quickest. On a 90°F (32°C) day, a dark metal bench surface can easily exceed 130°F (54°C) in just 10-15 minutes of direct sunlight, a temperature high enough to cause skin burns or discomfort upon contact. Lighter, reflective metals may take slightly longer but can still become uncomfortably hot.
The primary risk is thermal burn, especially for children, the elderly, or pets who may not recognize the danger. It's a significant public safety consideration for city planners and park designers.
To mitigate this, many urban areas now use alternative materials like wood, specially coated metals, or composite plastics for seating. For existing metal furniture, seeking shaded areas or testing the surface with the back of your hand before sitting are crucial safety habits. Understanding this rapid heating effect helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience in public outdoor spaces.