Comparing the Two
Commercial picnic tables are supercharged versions of backyard picnic tables: larger, heavier, sturdier, and able to stand up to wear from masses of people. Shapes and materials for both table types are similar, and both are available in limited colors. Picnic tables on private property must meet the requirements of one household; those on public property must comply with certain codes. Codes apply to handicap access, as well as fasteners and hardware designated by city building codes.
Disability Provisions
The U.S. Access Board determines guidelines for outdoor recreation environments that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Consideration is given to the number of accessible picnic tables, how these tables are dispersed, number of wheelchair seating spaces, and area surface and slope. Linear footage of the area determines number of picnic tables required. Specifications determine knee and toe space and clear floor space for each wheelchair.
The National Center for Accessibility recommends space for more than one wheelchair, giving disabled persons a choice of where to sit. Positioning at the picnic table should allow for social interaction. Picnic tables should be fixed in place to prevent them from being moved from the area, thus preserving accessibility. Consideration to shaded seating and to curb cuts should be given to areas with wheelchair accessible picnic tables. Public maps of the park and signage should specify picnic tables with handicap seating.
Types of Commercial Picnic Tables
Construction of steel picnic tables includes expanded and perforated metal; frames are welded iron with extra bracing. Frames and seats have a thermoplastic coating. Picnic tables made of recycled plastic with steel tubing are built for exceptional strength and beauty. Recycled plastic planks are attached to a steel understructure. Steel-enforced cement picnic tables are immovable and indestructible.
Wood picnic tables add natural beauty to public areas; they lack the weight of steel picnic tables, so permanently fixing them to the ground is suggested. Insects, moisture, splintering, rotting, staining, and painting can be minor problems for wood picnic tables, each preventable with light yearly maintenance. Aluminum picnic tables are conducive to indoor use in public areas; used outdoors, they should be anchored due to limited weight. The general rule when purchasing picnic tables is to allow two linear feet of bench space for each person seated.
