When you purchase a picnic time from a company named "Lifetime" the table should last more than a couple of years.  After reading several of the reviews I noticed that many people are having the same problem with the benches cracking and pieces breaking off. I am very disappointed in this product and honestly believe that this company is borderline fraudulent.  These tables are very expensive if they are only going to last a couple of years.  You are better off buying a wooden bench that can be sanded and painted when it becomes weathered.  Do yourself a favor and stay away from this company if you want a quality table.