Luxe Eucalyptus Bench

You can read my former comments below, but here is my latest disappointment. I have had this unit for less than a full year and problems are showing up. I'm not bothered that it is turning gray since it is in full sun all day, but the wood is cracking/splitting already and who's to say how the bench will look in 2-3 years!? See additionally attached pictures just taken. This will give you pause about buying such wood or, at least, this bench from this manufacturer. I would suggest moving up to red oak if you want wood that's really tough--juried craft shows often sell them. And in case you're wondering: Yes, I did apply preservative oil on the wood a couple times. Reservations: [First of all the actual price with shipping and handling is $204. But there's more--read below.] 1. The description of the bench does recommend that it be covered in the winter in "very cold" areas, but doesn't mention those areas. 2. Not mentioned is the seating weight capacity which is only 300 pounds total for two, information I discovered on an attached tag after delivery. How many adults do you know who are no heavier than 150 pounds? There is mention that eucalyptus is very strong wood; doesn't sound so. 3. Supportive and aligning dowels are provided, but they are loose in the holes and NOT supportive. There is no mention of using waterproof exterior glue with the dowels to strengthen the whole structure; this is usually necessary with dowel use. I did note when constructing the bench that the dowels did become a little snugger when portions were brought together for screwing; hopefully, that will be helpful. 4. There is mention that the bench's wood will somewhat swell and shrink during a seasons' use. Which means the screws may need tightening. Is this why they don't recommend gluing the dowels, which would help hold all parts in place? 5. The picture certainly looks much more handsome than the unit I received, which is very dull and darker--and giving it a preservative oiling it will not make it look like the Amazon ad. 6. Trying to find a cover--for very cold weather--that looks reasonably handsome on the bench will take some research. Why doesn't Amazon and/or the manufacturer recommend one that conforms to this bench's profile? Nevertheless, I ordered from Amazon the "Veranda Patio Bench Cover," which came to $43.87. (It does not go to the ground and may allow a stray cat to find refuge on the bench seat and under the cover.) Add to that the cost of oil via Amazon: $19.67 for a quart. Thus, the bench really costs about $268. 7. Another expense may also be obvious to you. This is wood, and wood standing in a moist area--lawn, patio--plays havoc on the feet of outdoor wooden furniture, especially since the grain is open at the bottom. So..., it makes sense to seal the wood from moisture, and paint is not the best sealant here. There is a clear spray called Flex Seal--sold at Amazon and elsewhere--that is a rubberized sealant. I plan to mask off and spray about 1" at the base of each leg and the bottom of the feet. This should prevent moisture problems for a few years. Cost: about $20 total. The bench's price has risen to about $288.00 from $204.00. But we're not finished: For those who want a more comfy seat, there's the added expense of an outdoor bench cushion--in this case 18" D (max) x 46" W (max) at the minimal cost of $30, but usually $50 and up. Cha-ching: The cost is now $318 to $338 and up. In the off-season, I recommend the bench be brought in (porch, shed, garage) if you don't want to buy a cover. 8. I'm hoping that the squirrels don't find the bench as tasty as they do my cedar fence! Something to consider. 9. Now...., I wish I had bought an attractive, darkened aluminum bench for the same, or less than, the price of the original bench alone. I will admit that the back support feels great. The depth of the seat is not excessive, and the height of it comfortable. The curvature of the seat bottom, though, could have been more accommodating to the human form--some wooden bench seats are. Also, though slightly tricky, one can assemble the bench alone; I did. UPDATE 11/1/15: Have included a picture of the Veranda Bench Cover on this bench. It is a little generous width-wise. Attached straps are included to secure to the legs (not done here). It came very wrinkled; put into my dryer on moderate heat and removed most of the wrinkles. UPDATE 5/5/16: To keep the feet from soaking up water I lacquered--with three coats--the bottom after masking with wide tape. Then I added a rubber-like cushion with a metal center and screw (drill the appropriate hole)--available at home centers--that lifts the feet 1/4" off any wet surface. See picture/s.