How to Fix a Park Bench
Over time park benches become worn and can fall into a state of disrepair. Common issues include worn-off paint, loose slats, and broken or missing slats. Park benches should be inspected seasonally to check for necessary repairs. Proper maintenance will prevent having to replace the entire bench.
Things You Will Need
- Wire brush
- Sandpaper
- Primer
- Paint
- Paint brushes
- Extra bench slats
- Extra bolts, nuts and washers
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
A bench can be maintained with a few basic tools. Park benches can last a very long time if properly maintained and repaired.
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Inspect the bench for worn paint and loose, broken or missing slats.
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Remove any loose or worn paint areas with a wire brush. Sand the area to ensure a clean surface to re-apply primer and paint.
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Apply primer and paint to any of the slats that you prepped. Allow the primer and paint to dry prior to handling them.
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Tighten any loose bolts by placing the screwdriver on the bolt head and turning the nut tight with a wrench.
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Replace any broken slats. Remove the bolts with a screwdriver and wrench. Pull the broken slat off and align the new one in place. Insert the bolts, slide the washers on and tighten the nuts into place. Replace any missing slats in the same manner.
Tip
Restore the finish on any slats once they begin to show wear to avoid more in-depth repairs such as replacement of broken or missing slats.
Warning
Wear eye protection when wire brushing and sanding wood.
References
Tips
- Restore the finish on any slats once they begin to show wear to avoid more in-depth repairs such as replacement of broken or missing slats.
Warnings
- Wear eye protection when wire brushing and sanding wood.
Writer Bio
Jonah Morrissey has been writing for print and online publications since 2000. He began his career as a staff reporter/photographer for a weekly newspaper in upstate New York. Morrissey specializes in topics related to home-and-garden projects, green living and small business. He graduated from Saint Michael's College, earning a B.A. in political science with a minor in journalism and mass communications.
Photo Credits
- bench image by Lucid_Exposure from Fotolia.com
- bench image by Lucid_Exposure from Fotolia.com
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