Smith And Hawken Bench

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Timeless Smith and Hawken Bench

For over 30 years, Smith and Hawken has been creating beautiful, high-quality outdoor furniture and accessories that stand the test of time. Their benches are no exception – made from durable, weather-resistant materials and available in a variety of classic styles.

If you’re in the market for a new bench to spruce up your patio, deck, or garden, a Smith and Hawken bench is a top contender. But with so many options to choose from, it can be tricky to select the right one to suit your needs. This comprehensive buying guide covers everything you need to know before purchasing one of these timeless benches.

An Overview of Smith and Hawken Benches

Smith and Hawken benches are made from top-grade woods or powder-coated aluminum for superior durability and weather-resistance. The most common wood choices are teak, eucalyptus, and shorea – all dense hardwoods that can withstand the elements. Teak is the most popular, known for its natural oil content that helps it stand up to rain, sun, and soil.

The craftsmanship is impeccable, with mortise and tenon joinery used to create solid connections. This type of joinery is hallmark of Smith and Hawken furniture, ensuring the benches remain sturdy and stable for years of use.

In terms of style, Smith and Hawken offers both traditional and contemporary designs. Some of their most popular benches include the simple, versatile Teak Garden Bench, the elegant curved Teak Canterbury Bench, and the charming acacia wood Mara Bench. They also have contemporary options like the sleek Link Teak Bench.

Materials Used in Smith and Hawken Benches

As mentioned above, teak, eucalyptus, and shorea wood are the most common materials used in Smith and Hawken benches.

Teak is prized for its weather-resistance, attractive grain patterns, and natural oils that help it stand up to the outdoor elements. Smith and Hawken uses Grade A teak sourced from reputable plantations in Indonesia.

Eucalyptus is another great hardwood choice. It has a straight, uniform grain and contains natural oils that act as a protective barrier. Smith and Hawken eucalyptus benches are made from plantation-grown eucalyptus from Brazil.

Shorea, also known as lauan, is a durable Southeast Asian hardwood similar to teak. It has an interlocking grain that makes it dense and resistant to weathering. Smith and Hawken uses shorea wood harvested from managed forests.

Some Smith and Hawken benches also utilize powder-coated aluminum for a sleek, contemporary look. The powder-coating makes it highly resistant to chipping, peeling, and rusting. This is a great choice if you want a low-maintenance, modern style bench.

Are Smith and Hawken Benches Weather-Resistant?

Absolutely! Weather-resistance is one of the key selling points of Smith and Hawken benches. The high-quality wood varieties they use – like teak, shorea, and eucalyptus – have natural oils that act as a protective barrier against outdoor elements like rain, sun, and moisture.

The craftsmanship also plays a role – benches are made using mortise and tenon joinery, allowing for tight-fitting joints that help minimize cracking. Hardware is made from durable stainless steel as well.

These benches are designed to be left outside year-round without compromising the integrity or appearance of the wood over time. The color may fade to a silvery grey as the benches age, but this is expected with exterior hardwoods.

To help protect and maintain benches, Smith and Hawken recommends periodically cleaning with their Teak Cleaner and applying Teak Shield to nourish the wood. But in general, the benches are made to handle the outdoors.

How Smith and Hawken Benches Compare to Other Brands

Smith and Hawken benches stand out for their unrivaled quality, durability, and style. This sets them apart from many other outdoor bench brands on the market.

Some of the key differences include:

• Superior craftsmanship and joinery – Many competing brands use lower-quality wood, cheaper hardware, and less precise joinery that can compromise longevity.
• Grade A teak – Smith and Hawken uses only the highest quality teak sourced sustainably from reputable plantations. This ensures weather-resistance and stability.
• Unique, timeless designs – From traditional to contemporary, Smith and Hawken’s bench designs have an elegance you won’t find with commodity outdoor furniture brands.
• Brand reputation – With 30+ years in business, Smith and Hawken is a recognized leader in high-end outdoor furniture. Their benches live up to the pedigree.
• Higher price point – As you would expect with the exceptional craftsmanship and materials, Smith and Hawken benches come at a higher price than average outdoor benches. But the quality justifies the investment.

When comparing to other high-end brands like Gloster and Summer Classics, Smith and Hawken benches are competitively priced for the quality.

What Customers Are Saying About Smith and Hawken Benches

Reviews of Smith and Hawken benches are overwhelmingly positive across the board. Customers repeatedly praise the craftsmanship, comfort, and weather-resistance. Specific feedback includes:

• “Classically beautiful and well-constructed” – Many reviews highlight the elegant, timeless styling of Smith and Hawken benches. The quality of construction also receives consistent praise.
• “So comfortable, I want one for every part of my yard!” – Customers find the contoured seats incredibly comfortable. The wood has some flex while maintaining stability.
• “Put it outside in the Florida sun and rain, and it still looks brand new” – Reviewers in hot, damp climates are very impressed with how the benches hold up against the elements.
• “Easy to assemble and high-end materials” – Reviews mention the benches are straightforward to put together. The quality wood, hardware, and joinery are obvious.
• “Worth the price” – While expensive, most customers agree Smith and Hawken benches are worth the investment given their durability, performance, and design.

Based on feedback, these benches live up to their reputation for quality craftsmanship and longevity. The comfort and weather-resistance are as advertised.

Available Sizes of Smith and Hawken Benches

One advantage of Smith and Hawken benches is the variety of sizes available to suit different spaces. Here are some of the most common sizes:

• Small benches – Roughly 4-5 feet in length. Perfect for smaller patios, porches, and gardens. The Teak Garden Bench and Acacia Maro Bench come in this smaller size.
• Medium benches – 5 to 7 feet in length. Ideal for areas with more room. The medium Teak Garden Bench is a popular choice.
• Large benches – Around 7-8 feet in length. Made for spacious patios, large gardens, and parks. The large Teak Garden Bench works well.
• Extra-long benches – Some styles like the Teak Canterbury Bench come in 8, 9, and 10 feet lengths. Great statement pieces for big outdoor living areas.
• Curved benches – Certain styles like the Teak Canterbury Bench are available in curved sections. These can be combined to make unique shapes.
• Custom sizes – Smith and Hawken can custom fabricate benches up to 12 feet long upon request. Ideal for clients wanting an oversized bench.

Having multiple sizes to choose from makes it easy to find the perfect Smith and Hawken bench for your specific setting. Just be sure to measure your space beforehand!

Assembling Your Smith and Hawken Bench

Assembling a Smith and Hawken bench is a straightforward process, but there are some tips to make the process smooth:

• Read instructions fully – Be sure to thoroughly read the assembly instructions provided with your specific bench before beginning. This will give you an overview of how it fits together.
• Clear wide workspace – You’ll need ample room around the bench pieces to maneuver during assembly, so clear a wide workspace before starting. Avoid cramped areas.
• Arrange components – Spread out all the wood pieces, hardware, and included tools. Having them organized will make assembly faster.
• Don’t fully tighten at first – Lightly secure each joint, but don’t fully tighten the hardware until the bench is completely assembled. This allows for positioning.
• Use provided tools – Smith and Hawken includes the Allen wrench required for tightening the bolts that connect the joints. Use this, not your own tool, for best results.
• Take your time – Read each step carefully and don’t rush through the process. Pay attention to how the pieces join together.
• Fully tighten joints – Once the bench is fully assembled, go back and tighten all hardware. This secures everything into place.
• Check stability – Give the bench a gentle shake to ensure it feels stable and sturdy. All four legs should rest firmly on the ground.

With patience and care, your new Smith and Hawken bench will come together seamlessly. Be sure to admire your handiwork once assembled!

Various Styles of Smith and Hawken Benches

Smith and Hawken offers several classic bench designs to match different aesthetic tastes:

• Teak Garden Bench – Their signature style, offered in various sizes. Timeless and versatile for any setting.
• Teak Canterbury Bench – Elegant curved bench that can be configured into unique shapes.
• Mara Acacia Bench – Charming country-style bench made of durable acacia wood.
• Somerset Teak Bench – Slat-style teak bench adding a breezy, relaxed feel.
• Teak Link Bench – Contemporary modular benches in sleek linked pieces.
• Lutyens Teak Bench – Architecturally inspired bench with exposed joinery details.
• Chippendale Teak Bench – Distinguished old-world style bench with intricate details.
• Milano Cerused Bench – Modern eucalyptus bench with grey-washed finish.

Whatever your taste, there’s a Smith and Hawken bench to complement your landscape. The quality remains consistent across all styles.

Durability and Longevity of Smith and Hawken Benches

Known for their heirloom-quality craftsmanship, Smith and Hawken benches are designed to last for decades when properly cared for. Here are some of the durability factors:

• Mortise and tenon joinery – The use of traditional mortise and tenon joinery creates an exceptionally strong frame designed to withstand the elements.
• Grade A teak – Highest quality teak has natural oils that protect against rot, pests, moisture damage and wear. Improves longevity.
• Stainless steel hardware – Rust-resistant stainless steel hardware avoids corrosion issues that can compromise structural integrity.
• Powder-coated aluminum – Benches with powder-coated aluminum legs do not rust, peel or chip like painted metal legs.
• Traditional oil finish – Traditional Danish oil finish penetrates wood grains for water resistance without concealing natural beauty.
• Craftsmanship – Meticulous hand-crafting and detail orientation result in sturdy, long-lasting construction.
• Reputation – Smith and Hawken’s 30+ year reputation confirms they design benches to endure generations of use.

With proper care and maintenance, Smith and Hawken benches often last 30+ years. Many customers pass them down as treasured family heirlooms.

Using Smith and Hawken Benches Indoors vs. Outdoors

A key benefit of Smith and Hawken benches is their versatility – they are equally suited for both outdoor and indoor use.

Outdoors, the weather-resistant woods and durable construction allow the benches to withstand rain, sun, and other elements. The materials are designed to be left outside year-round without deterioration.

Indoors, the fine craftsmanship and beautiful woods give the benches a timeless, heirloom quality for an elegant interior furniture piece. The classic styling fits well in coastal, farmhouse, or traditional rooms.

The only difference is outdoor benches may eventually develop a silvery-grey patina after prolonged sun and rain exposure. But this aged look is desirable to many. Make sure to follow care instructions.

Whether enjoying your morning coffee inside or relaxing by the garden, a Smith and Hawken bench fits seamlessly into both worlds. The quality remains the same – it just depends on your personal style and plans for the bench.

Weight Capacity of Smith and Hawken Benches

An important consideration for any bench is the weight capacity it can safely support. Smith and Hawken benches are crafted from dense hardwoods and quality hardware, making them quite sturdy and built to handle reasonable weight:

• Teak benches – Most teak benches support 250 to 300 lbs. per seat. Teak is dense and rigid, even as it ages. The curved Canterbury design can handle 300+ lbs.
• Eucalyptus benches – Similar to teak, the eucalyptus benches support around 250 to 300 lbs per seat. Dense eucalyptus prevents sagging or instability.
• Acacia wood benches – Acacia has excellent strength properties. Smith and Hawken’s acacia benches can handle 300+ lbs. per seat.
• Powder-coated aluminum – The aluminum benches can support over 350 lbs. Aluminum is lightweight but very strong.
• Bench size – In general, the longer the bench, the higher total weight capacity since weight is distributed.

These substantial weight limits make Smith and Hawken benches quite versatile. But as with any furniture, avoid excessive loading to be safe.

Smith and Hawken Bench Warranty Information

Smith and Hawken benches are backed by a limited 15 year structural warranty. This covers:

• Frame integrity issues from manufacturing defects.
• Rot, insect damage, or fungal decay occurring in properly maintained wood.
• Failure of hardware connections.
• Major cracking or warping that compromises strength.

The warranty does not cover:

• Normal wear-and-tear, aging, or minor surface cracks in wood.
• Fading, color changes, or patina acquired from outdoor use.
• Rust or corrosion of hardware.
• Damage caused by improper use, care, or neglect.

Warranty only valid for original purchaser with proof of purchase. Damage from severe weather conditions not covered.

So while normal aging is expected, major structural issues would be addressed under the 15 year warranty. Contact Smith and Hawken for full details.

Costs and Budgeting for a Smith and Hawken Bench

As a premium designer, Smith and Hawken benches range on the higher end in terms of price:

• Smaller teak benches – Starting around $700 – $900. More basic styles like the Teak Garden Bench start here.
• Large or curved teak benches – $1,200 – $1,800. Larger sizes or curved benches command a higher price.
• Acacia or eucalyptus benches – $900 – $1,200. More budget-friendly but still excellent quality.
• Custom teak benches – Over $2,000. For specialty sizes, materials, or engravings.

While expensive compared to big box outdoor benches, the impeccable craftsmanship and longevity justify the investment for many shoppers. High-end outdoor furniture holds value.

Smith and Hawken also occasionally offers sales around 15-20% off. Sign up for email to receive notice of promotions. Benches can sell out quickly though!

Caring for and Maintaining a Smith and Hawken Bench

To keep your Smith and Hawken bench looking its best for decades, adhere to some basic care guidelines:

• Clean regularly – Use a soft bristle brush and Smith & Hawken Teak Cleaner to remove dirt, debris, and environmental buildup. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Apply protective finish – Treat your bench yearly with Smith & Hawken Teak Shield. This nourishes the wood and enhances water resistance.
• Inspect hardware – Check fittings periodically and tighten any loosened hardware to maintain structural integrity.
• Monitor for damage – Periodically inspect for any splintering, cracks, or deterioration needing repair. Address issues promptly.
• Use furniture covers – Use weather-resistant covers during severe weather exposure to better protect your investment.
• Avoid dragging – Lift benches instead of dragging to move them to prevent scuffing or loosening joints.

With the proper care, your Smith and Hawken bench will only look better as time goes on. The maintenance is easy enough for anyone.

Available Color Options for Smith and Hawken Benches

For the most part, Smith and Hawken benches allow the natural beauty of the wood grains and tones to shine through. But there are some available color choices:

• Teak – Ranges from golden brown when new to silvery grey patina over time. Most classic teak look.
• Eucalyptus – Light tan color with some color variation depending on age. Mutes to soft grey.
• Acacia – Medium reddish-brown color. Darkens over time to deeper brown with grey undertones.
• Shorea – Light brown like oak with dark contrasting grain patterns. Greys naturally.
• Cerused Finish – Grey washed color created through wire brushing. Modern weathered appearance.
• Painted Finishes – Some aluminum bench frames come in black, white, or gray powder coated finishes.

Overall, natural and neutral wood tones prevail in order to showcase the wood species. But touches of color can be added with cushions or decor.

Comfort Level of Smith and Hawken Benches

From customer feedback to product reviews, one consistency about Smith and Hawken benches is they are exceptionally comfortable for solid wood benches. Some reasons why:

• Contoured seat design – Seats are slightly curved for ergonomic comfort. Allows bodies to relax into bench.
• Ideal seat depths/heights – Dimensions are designed for most natural seating postures. Not too high or deep.
• Wood flexibility – Though rigid, the teak and other woods flex slightly to conform to sitter’s shape.
• Smooth sanded finish – No surface splinters. Wood is smoothed to perfection.
• Optional cushions – Integrated cushions or pillows can be added for extra cushioning.
• Breathability – Wood cools better than metal. Air circulates rather than getting hot and sticky.

For those concerned about discomfort from bare wood, removable cushions can be added to any Smith and Hawken bench for extra relaxation. But the wood alone often surprises users with its cozy feel.

Customization Options for Smith and Hawken Benches

While Smith and Hawken excels at classic designs, they offer some customization if you want to make a bench truly one-of-a-kind:

• Size – As referenced earlier, you can order a custom size up to 12 feet long to fit your space exactly. Minimum fees apply.
• ** plaque or inscription** – For a special touch, add a plaque or engraved inscription marking a special occasion, date, or loved one’s name.
• Color or finish – Though limited color selection by default, you can inquire about special finish options like darker stains. Upcharges apply.
• Cushions or pillows – Add customized cushions in your ideal fabric, color and size for the ultimate tailored bench.
• Hardware – While standard hardware finishes are stainless steel and powder coated options, special orders can be accommodated.
• Location-specific design – If shipping internationally, custom modifications can be made to suit regional style preferences.

Work closely with a Smith and Hawken representative to bring your creative vision to life through their craftsmanship. Just anticipate added costs and production time for custom requests.

Eco-Friendliness of Smith and Hawken Benches

For those conscientious about environmental impact, Smith and Hawken makes laudable efforts for sustainability:

• Responsible woods – Teak, acacia, and eucalyptus are sourced from managed plantations or forests. Shorea comes from verified legal harvesting.
• Efficient manufacturing – Production processes optimize material usage to minimize unnecessary waste. Sawdust and scraps recycled.
• Limited packaging – Products ship with reusable natural fiber blankets and recyclable cardboard vs. plastics fillers.
• Finishing processes – Low VOC stains and oils are used. Wastewater treated and reclaimed during finishing steps.
• Regional materials – Most raw materials like woods and aluminum are sourced regionally to cut transportation miles and emissions.
• Product longevity – Built to last generations, their benches conserve resources vs. replacing cheaper benches often.
• Reparability – Benches are constructed to enable repairs, modifications, and part replacements vs. total replacement.

While no product is 100% sustainable, Smith and Hawken makes meaningful strides to mitigate their environmental impact. Their benches represent an eco-wise investment.

Care and Maintenance Instructions for Smith and Hawken Benches

To preserve the beauty and integrity of your Smith and Hawken bench for decades to come, follow these care instructions provided by the manufacturer:

• Clean regularly with a soft bristle brush using their Teak Cleaner or mild soap and warm water to remove dirt, debris and environmental buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals or cleaners.
• Apply a protective finish at least once yearly with their Teak Shield or high-quality exterior wood finish. This nourishes the wood and enhances water repellency.
• Inspect hardware periodically and tighten any loosened screws or bolts to maintain the structural stability of the bench.
• Monitor for damage by looking for any splintering, cracks, deterioration or compromise that may need addressed. Touch up paint or finishes as needed.
• Use weather protection such as high quality, breathable furniture covers during periods of harsh weather exposure, especially with unfinished wood benches.
• Lift benches when moving them instead of dragging across surfaces to avoid scuffing legs or loosening joints. Handle with care.

Adhering to these best practices will maintain the like-new quality and appearance of your Smith and Hawken bench season after season. Be sure to enjoy this timeless piece for generations to come!