That's an excellent and very practical question. When it comes to public trash bins in cities, material thickness isn't just a detail—it's often the single biggest factor determining whether a bin lasts for decades or needs replacing in a few years.
Think of it like the difference between a soda can and a soup can. A thin-walled bin, often made from lightweight steel or plastic, is cost-effective upfront. However, it's highly susceptible to dents from kicks or impacts, can be easily crushed by over-compaction, and may develop holes from rust or general wear relatively quickly. In a calm, low-traffic area, it might suffice. But in a bustling urban setting? It won't stand up to the abuse.
Conversely, a bin constructed from thicker-gauge steel (often measured in gauges, like 12-gauge being thicker than 16-gauge) or reinforced polymer has significantly greater structural integrity. This extra mass absorbs impact, resists denting, and makes the bin much harder to vandalize or deform. For metal bins, a thicker material also means a more robust protective coating (like powder coating or galvanization) can be applied, dramatically slowing down corrosion.
The trade-off is weight and cost. Thicker materials are heavier, making installation and emptying slightly more labor-intensive, and they are undeniably more expensive initially. Yet, this investment usually pays off through a vastly extended service life, lower maintenance costs, and fewer emergency replacements. For high-traffic zones, transit stations, or areas prone to misuse, specifying a thicker material is a non-negotiable for true durability. It's the key to a bin that endures daily public use while maintaining its function and appearance.