Quick Facts About Bleachers

Multitudes of spectators fill up stadiums to watch their favorite athletic teams play; oftentimes stomping their feet and cheering loudly from the bleachers. These benches were called “bleaching boards” up until 1889, when the first recorded use of the word “bleachers” was made. The word “bleacher” evolved from the phrase “bleached by the sun” used to describe the wooden benches which color faded to white after being exposed under the sun for so long.

Permanent bleachers installation

Two centuries later, bleachers are now made from aluminum or galvanized steel and are categorized depending on its function. The categories include the following: 

• Permanent bleachers are installed in large athletic fields, such as football and baseball fields, anchored to concrete slabs and are fitted with a variety of seat options. 
• Portable bleachers, commonly called Tip N’ Roll bleachers, are used for additional seating capacity and for small pop-up events such as performances and plays. After the event, the bleachers can be rolled away for easy storage. 
• To maximize space in small venues like in pool decks, telescopic or retractable bleachers made from molded plastic seats can be folded when not in use. The bleacher seats are made to withstand high humidity. 
• If there is a need for additional capacity for special events, organizers can get temporary bleachers from rental companies. 

Aside from the bleacher function and purpose, size and capacity are also considered in evaluating bleacher options.

Since bleachers hold a number of spectators at a given time, safety is top priority. Building codes are in place to ensure the viewers’ protection. When the top seat height exceeds 30” as in the case of elevated bleachers, safety features such as guardrail, handrail, riser, and foot planks are required. Elevated bleachers are best deployed to improve the viewing experience during football, baseball, and tennis events. 

Low-rise bleachers perfect for little league fields

On the other hand, low-rise bleachers have the first row seats 10”-12” away from the ground. An advantage of using low-risers is that the top seat height is below 30” so it does not require railings to meet building and safety codes, which also makes it a cheaper option. However, seating in the front row might be a little uncomfortable for adults. Low-rise bleachers are best installed for use in little league baseball fields and elementary school events.

From the ‘bleached’ look in the 19^th century, bleachers now come painted in different colors depending on the stadium’s design or it could also reflect the home team’s colors. In the case of bleachers for baseball stadiums, the seats directly in the line of sight of the batter or the center-field bleachers are painted dark in contrast to the white ball. This allows the batter to keep sight of the ball in flight.  

Here’s a fun fact: one brilliant bleacher coloring idea came from Fenway Park. In a sea of green-colored seats, one red seat stands out at the right lower bleachers section. The seat was painted red to commemorate the pitch made by Red Sox’ Ted Williams that launched the ball 502 feet into the air, marking the longest homerun ever hit at Fenway Park. Viewers can relive that glorious moment by paying $23 to grab the coveted seat.


Sturdy-Lite Sports is a U.S. manufacturer and distributor of aluminum Bleacher products which comply with all provisions in ICC 300-2007 and 300-2012