Few things rival the warmth and beauty of natural wood furniture in an outdoor living space. A well-crafted garden bench or patio set can transform your backyard. However, using the wrong type of wood could lead to the furniture warping, rotting, or molding.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast looking to build your own outdoor furniture or a homeowner in the market for a new set, this guide can help you choose the right wood for your outdoor furniture.
Different Types of Wood for Outdoor Furniture
When selecting wood for outdoor furniture, consider the natural properties of different species. Some woods have a natural resistance to rot, insects, and weathering, making them ideal for outdoor use. Here are some of the most popular and durable wood options for outdoor furniture:
Teak
Teak is widely regarded as the gold standard for outdoor furniture wood. Its high oil content makes it naturally moisture-resistant, preventing warping, cracking, and rot. Teak’s density and hardness also make it resistant to dents, scratches, and other damage.
After prolonged outdoor exposure, unfinished teak develops a silvery-gray patina, which many find attractive. However, maintaining the teak’s original golden-brown color requires occasional maintenance.
Teak furniture tends to be more expensive than other wood options, but its exceptional durability means it can last for decades with proper care.
Ipe
Ipe, also known as Brazilian walnut, has gained recent popularity for its exceptional durability. Like teak, ipe contains natural oils that protect against rot, pests, and weather damage. Its extreme density makes it highly scratch-resistant and able to withstand heavy use.
Unfinished ipe develops a patina ranging from grayish-brown to silver-gray over time. It requires minimal maintenance aside from occasional cleaning. However, ipe’s extreme hardness can make it challenging to work with using standard woodworking tools. Additionally, it is an imported exotic wood, so sustainability is a concern.
Cedar
Western red cedar and northern white cedar are ideal for outdoor furniture because of their natural rot resistance. The resins in cedar repel insects, mold, and mildew, making it ideal for furniture that sits directly on the ground.
Cedar is a relatively soft, lightweight wood so it’s easy to move and rearrange. It readily accepts paints and stains for easy customization. When left unfinished, cedar ages to a stately silvery-gray hue. While it may dent and scratch more easily than harder woods, cedar’s moisture resistance helps minimize cracking.
Cedar should be stored under cover during rainy periods if possible to help maximize longevity. Keeping cedar furniture out of the elements whenever feasible will extend its life.
Acacia
Acacia is an increasingly popular eco-friendly choice for outdoor furniture. These fast-growing trees are abundant in many parts of the world, making acacia an excellent sustainable option.
The dense, durable hardwood can withstand outdoor elements well. It’s even used in boat building due to its weather resistance. Acacia has a rich, golden-brown color when left unfinished, but sealing can enhance and preserve its appearance. If you plan to place acacia furniture directly on damp ground, we recommend applying a weatherproofing sealant to prevent discoloration over time.
Pros and Cons of Popular Outdoor Woods
Each type of wood has advantages and disadvantages for outdoor furniture.
Teak
Pros:
- Exceptional durability and weather resistance
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Attractive aging process
Cons:
- High cost compared to other woods
- Can be heavy and difficult to move
Ipe
Pros:
- Extremely dense and durable
- Highly resistant to insects and decay
- Low maintenance requirements
Cons:
- Can be difficult to shape due to its hardness
- May have sustainability concerns
- Often more expensive than domestic hardwoods
Cedar
Pros:
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Accepts stains and paints well
Cons:
- Softer wood prone to denting and scratching
- Requires more frequent maintenance than teak or ipe
- May not be as long-lasting as denser hardwoods
Acacia
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and sustainable
- Good weather resistance
- Attractive grain patterns
Cons:
- May require more frequent sealing than teak or ipe
- Prone to warping if not properly maintained
- Less durable than some premium hardwoods
Weather and Temperature Considerations
Climate and weather conditions influence which wood to choose for outdoor furniture. Different woods perform better in certain environments, so understanding these factors helps you pick the right wood for your location.
Humidity and Moisture
Wood with high natural oil content is ideal in humid climates or areas with significant rainfall. Teak and ipe excel in these conditions due to their moisture-resistant properties. While not as dense as teak or ipe, cedar also contains natural resins that repel water and resist decay, making it a good choice for damp environments.
Sun Exposure
Prolonged sun exposure can cause some woods to fade, crack, or warp. Teak and ipe resist UV damage, but you may need to seal cedar and acacia periodically to protect against sun damage, especially if you want to keep the furniture’s original color.
Temperature Fluctuations
Woods that can withstand significant temperature changes without expanding or contracting excessively are ideal for areas with variable climates. Teak and ipe are excellent in regions with dramatic temperature swings, as their density and stability help them maintain their shape and structure.
Sustainability Considerations
The environmental impact of the wood may shape your decision. Some woods, such as teak and ipe, are slower-growing and may come from threatened forests if not sourced responsibly. Choose products with certifications from organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to source wood from sustainably managed forests.
Acacia and cedar may be more sustainable due to their faster growth rates and wider availability. You may also consider furniture made from reclaimed or recycled wood for an eco-friendly choice that gives new life to existing materials.
Maintenance Requirements for Different Woods
Upkeep and finishing requirements vary between wood types. Here’s how to maintain the different woods:
Teak Maintenance
Teak requires minimal maintenance to perform well outdoors. To keep its golden color, apply a teak sealer annually. For a silver-gray weathered look, simply clean the furniture occasionally with mild soap and water.
Ipe Maintenance
Ipe is very low-maintenance. It can be left untreated to develop an attractive natural patina over time. If you prefer to maintain ipe’s original color, apply an oil-based sealer every 1–2 years.
Cedar Maintenance
Cedar benefits from annual cleaning and frequent sealing to maintain its appearance and weather resistance. Without treatment, cedar will naturally age to a silvery-gray color.
Acacia Maintenance
Seal acacia wood annually to enhance its weather resistance and maintain its rich color. Regular cleaning and occasional re-oiling helps preserve acacia’s appearance and durability.
If aiming for a certain look, keep in mind how the bare wood weathers over time, or choose a paintable wood like cedar or pine if you wish to customize the finish. Combining a naturally durable wood with proper care and maintenance is key to enjoying attractive outdoor furniture that lasts.
How To Protect and Maintain Outdoor Wood Furniture
Adequate care and maintenance can extend the life of your outdoor wood furniture, regardless of the wood type. Here are some general tips for protecting and maintaining wooden outdoor pieces:
- Clean regularly: Wash wood furniture at least once a year with mild soap and water or more frequently if exposed to heavy dirt or pollen.
- Apply sealant: Use a water-resistant sealant appropriate for the wood type to protect against moisture and UV damage.
- Cover or store: During harsh weather or extended periods of disuse, cover furniture or store it in a protected area.
- Address damage promptly: Repair any cracks, splinters, or loose joints as soon as they appear to prevent further damage.
- Re-oil or refinish as needed: Depending on the wood type and desired appearance, periodically re-oil or refinish the furniture to maintain its look and protection.
FAQs About Choosing Wood for Outdoor Furniture
Teak is widely regarded as the most durable and weather-resistant wood for outdoor use. Its high oil content helps repel moisture while the dense grains resist dents, scratches, and damage from the elements. Other durable woods include ipe, cypress, and cedar.
With proper care and maintenance, teak furniture can easily last 50 years or longer when kept outdoors. Even if left unfinished, high-quality teak may last up to 25 years before replacement is needed.
Sealing outdoor wood furniture is recommended for optimal durability. Sealants protect the wood from moisture, sun damage, staining, and pests. They also help lock in stains and finishes. Teak, cypress, cedar, and other naturally rot-resistant woods still benefit from occasional sealing for enhanced longevity.
Teak is more durable than cedar overall. However, cedar is lighter in weight, less expensive, and more readily available than teak. Cedar resists rot, repels insects, and weathers to an attractive silvery gray hue when left unfinished. For a low-maintenance option, cedar can be a better choice than teak for some budgets and needs.
Pine lumber provides one of the most affordable options for outdoor wood furniture. Despite being a softwood, exterior-grade pine is pressure-treated to resist rot and insect damage. Pine accepts stains and paints well. Fir and cedar offer slightly higher quality than pine but are also budget-friendly woods for outdoor use.
