The center vinyl looking part should have been even better. There is a gap between the vinyl (or whatever) and the wood, I was afraid if water gets in it would deteriorate the wood, so I caulked it with clear caulk I had with me. Assembly was easy but, the seat should have had a guide hole or something to position the seat exactly to the frame, unless I missed some info somewhere. Overall the packaging was good, no scratches or cracks.