While this bench is listed as "outdoor," if you read the fine print, it suggests covering it when not in use to protect from the elements. That's not reasonable. The wood slats used to make the bench are only 1/2" thick, which doesn't really inspire confidence in terms of longevity. I applied 3+ coats of oil-based varnish to the bench, front & back, making sure to get the sides of all the wood slats as well. This has made the bench truly "outdoor," and will add to its longevity as well. 

The foolishness of selling unfinished wood as "outdoor" aside, the bench looks great, it was easy to assemble, and I think it's sturdy enough to last a long time. Too, it was exactly the length I needed.

I knew I'd have to treat the wood when I bought it, so there were no real surprises, and I can't complain too much at this price point.