Living in areas with high pigeon populations presents a unique challenge for public spaces. Bird droppings can quickly degrade the appearance and hygiene of outdoor furniture. Fortunately, specific types of urban furniture are designed to be both pigeon-resistant and easy to clean.
The key is selecting materials with smooth, non-porous, and often slanted surfaces. Pigeons find it difficult and uncomfortable to perch on these materials, which is the first line of defense.
Top Easy-to-Clean Materials:
1. Polywood or HDPE Lumber: This is a top choice. Made from recycled plastic, it is inherently non-porous. Droppings cannot be absorbed, and a quick spray with a hose or wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. Its synthetic nature also doesn't attract pigeons as a potential nesting material.
2. Powder-Coated Steel: A high-quality powder coat creates a very hard, smooth, and sealed surface. It prevents rust and makes it difficult for droppings to adhere strongly. Simple cleaning is effective, and the smooth surface is uninviting for birds to grip.
3. Stainless Steel: Highly durable and non-porous, stainless steel is exceptionally easy to wipe clean. It is a premium option often used in modern urban design for its cleanability and resistance to the elements, including bird waste.
4. Solid Aluminum: Similar to steel, aluminum with a good powder-coated finish offers a slick surface that is easy to maintain and discourages perching.
Design Features that Help:
* Slanted Surfaces: Benches with slanted seats or armrests make it physically challenging for pigeons to land and settle comfortably.
* Minimal Flat Ledges: Designs that avoid broad, flat surfaces eliminate preferred perching spots.
* Avoiding Ornate Details: Intricate scrollwork and decorative gaps can provide ideal roosting and nesting spots. Opt for sleek, minimalist designs with fewer hiding places.
What to Avoid:
Be cautious with materials like untreated wood, which is porous and absorbs droppings, making it very difficult to sanitize. Wrought iron with complex details also tends to be a maintenance nightmare in high-pigeon areas.
In conclusion, by choosing urban furniture made from materials like polywood, powder-coated steel, or stainless steel with smart, slanted designs, you can significantly reduce maintenance time and keep public areas clean, attractive, and hygienic despite the local pigeon population.