When selecting outdoor furniture for public spaces, weight capacity is a critical consideration for safety and longevity. Commercial-grade bench-style outdoor furniture typically supports between 500 to 1,000 pounds (227 to 454 kg) distributed weight, though specifications vary by manufacturer and construction.
The weight capacity depends on several engineering factors: material thickness, support structure design, leg configuration, and manufacturing quality. Steel-reinforced benches generally offer higher weight ratings than purely wooden constructions. Most municipal specifications require public benches to withstand at least 800 pounds to accommodate multiple occupants simultaneously.
For accurate weight limitations, always consult the manufacturer's technical specifications and consider expected usage patterns. Proper installation on level surfaces and regular maintenance inspections significantly impact actual load-bearing performance over time. Commercial installations should include periodic stress testing to ensure ongoing compliance with safety standards.