That's an excellent question! As someone who's managed public spaces for years, I've seen firsthand how temperature extremes can make or break outdoor equipment. Let me share what really matters when it comes to trash bin durability.
Most commercial-grade outdoor bins today are designed with temperature resilience in mind. In scorching heat, quality polyethylene bins won't melt or warp like cheaper plastics might. The secret is in UV-stabilized materials that resist both heat degradation and color fading. I've seen bins in Arizona summers holding up beautifully when they're made with proper thickness and additives.
Cold weather presents different challenges. In freezing temperatures, plastics can become brittle. However, modern rotational-molded bins maintain flexibility well below freezing. The real concern isn't the bin itself cracking, but rather contents freezing solid. That's why I always recommend bins with wider openings in cold climates - it prevents ice blockages when you need to empty them.
Metal bins, particularly stainless steel, excel in temperature extremes too. They won't degrade in heat and handle cold beautifully, though they can become uncomfortably hot to touch in direct summer sun. Powder-coated steel offers good protection, but chips in the coating can lead to rust in freeze-thaw cycles.
What truly matters is material thickness and construction. Thin bins fail regardless of material. Look for bins with at least 6-8mm wall thickness. I've found that dual-walled construction provides the best insulation against both heat and cold.
Maintenance matters too. Simple practices like regular cleaning and avoiding harsh chemicals in extreme temperatures will extend your bins' lifespan significantly. In my experience, investing in quality bins from reputable manufacturers pays off dramatically - they typically last 7-10 years even in harsh climates, while cheaper alternatives might fail in just 2-3 seasons.
The bottom line? Modern outdoor bins handle temperature extremes remarkably well when you choose the right materials and proper construction for your specific climate needs.