I have purchased and assembled at least 3 Ash & Ember Teak Benches, along with several tables and many chairs. This is high quality construction using "clear" and quality teak wood. Excellent value for the cost, they look and feel substantial and in use they are fantastic. I should add that I started with a small order and after receiving the first order I understood that this was a real bargain with lasting value. We have older teak furniture that is not as substantial but lasted 25 years so far... I expect even better results with these Ash & Ember products.Frederick Maryland