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10 Best Wood For Outdoor Furniture [+ Maintenance Tips]
Choosing the right type of wood for outdoor furniture is crucial for creating a durable and visually appealing outdoor space.
In this guide, we'll explore the 10 best woods for outdoor furniture, providing insights into their characteristics and explaining why they excel in outdoor settings.
Additionally, we'll share key considerations before making a purchase and offer valuable maintenance tips to ensure your outdoor furniture stays in top-notch condition.
- Best Type of Woods For Outdoor Furniture
- Key Considerations Before Getting Outdoor Furniture
- Tips To Maintain Outdoor Wood Furniture
- Choosing The Best Wood For Outdoor Furniture
- FAQs About Outdoor Wood Furniture
Best Type of Woods For Outdoor Furniture
In this section, we’ll be discussing the finest furniture wood choices for the outdoors, showcasing some of the best types of woods known for their durability and aesthetic appeal.
Note: The order of the woods is not indicative of their ranking; each wood has unique qualities suitable for outdoor use.
1. Angsana
The inherent durability of Angsana allows it to withstand the rigours of outdoor exposure, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Its resistance to insects adds to its longevity, making it the perfect option for outdoor furniture such as wooden benches and tables.
Beyond its practical attributes, Angsana's versatility in design makes it adaptable to different outdoor furniture styles, while its low maintenance requirements contribute to a hassle-free outdoor experience.
Check out some of our most popular Angsana furniture:
2. Mahogany/Khaya
Mahogany, renowned for its rich, reddish-brown colour and straight grain, stands as a beautiful and durable choice for outdoor furniture. Also known as Khaya, the aesthetic appeal of this wood is complemented by natural resistance to decay and insects, making it well-suited for enduring outdoor applications. Sustainability is key, emphasising the importance of responsibly sourced mahogany for environmental considerations.
With these qualities, mahogany not only offers timeless elegance to outdoor spaces but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly choice in furniture.
Check out some of our most popular Mahogany/Khaya furniture:
3. Balau
Balau presents a medium to dark brown colour and a straight, interlocking grain. This combination, coupled with its durability and resistance to decay, insects, and moisture, positions Balau as a favoured option for outdoor furniture. Its interlocking grain adds to its stability and visual appeal.
This wood variety brings a versatile and robust solution to outdoor furniture needs. The inherent durability and resilience make Balau an ideal choice for creating lasting and visually appealing outdoor furniture pieces.
4. Teak
Teak wood, a premium hardwood with a golden-brown colour that gracefully weathers to a silvery grey, is renowned for its exceptional qualities in outdoor settings. The natural oils within teak render it resistant to water, insects, and decay, making it highly durable. This durability is particularly advantageous in outdoor environments where exposure to the elements is constant.
Teak's ability to age gracefully, coupled with its strength, positions it as a preferred choice for those seeking both longevity and aesthetic appeal in their outdoor furniture.
5. Pine
Pressure-treated pine wood emerges as a suitable softwood for outdoor furniture, offering an affordable option with enhanced resistance to decay. Its light colour provides a versatile canvas for various finishes, and with regular sealing or staining, pressure-treated pine maintains its durability over time.
The affordability and availability of pine make it a practical choice for outdoor furniture projects, providing a cost-effective solution without compromising on resilience.
6. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus, a hardwood characterised by a straight grain, offers a cost-effective alternative to teak while delivering natural resistance to decay. Performing admirably in outdoor environments, eucalyptus benefits from regular sealing or oiling to enhance its lifespan.
The combination of affordability and durability positions eucalyptus as a practical choice for those seeking outdoor furniture that balances cost-effectiveness with longevity.
7. Redwood
Redwood, boasting an attractive reddish hue, is a durable hardwood well-suited for outdoor furniture. Regular sealing or staining becomes essential to preserve its colour and protect it from the elements, ensuring the longevity of furniture made from this wood.
Beyond its durability, redwood's natural beauty enhances outdoor spaces, making it a sought-after choice for those aiming to create visually appealing and resilient outdoor furniture.
8. Cedar
Cedar, naturally resistant to decay, insects, and rot, stands out as a lightweight yet durable wood for outdoor furniture. Periodic sealing or staining is recommended to enhance its longevity, ensuring that cedar furniture remains sturdy and visually appealing.
The natural aromatic qualities of cedar add to its charm, making it an appealing choice for those seeking both functionality and a pleasant outdoor ambiance.
9. Acacia
Acacia wood, characterised by its warm, golden colour, is recognized for its durability and resistance to decay. Commonly used for outdoor furniture, acacia's longevity is ensured through regular maintenance practices.
Its warm hues and varied grain pattern contribute to its visual appeal, making acacia a popular choice for creating inviting and enduring outdoor furniture pieces.
10. White Oak
White Oak, a durable hardwood resistant to decay, showcases a light colour often tinged with a slight pink or grey hue. Its ability to take finishes well makes it suitable for outdoor furniture, allowing for a range of staining or oiling options.
Proper sealing or oiling is recommended to maintain its appearance, ensuring that white oak furniture not only withstands outdoor conditions but also retains its aesthetic appeal. The adaptability of white oak makes it suitable for various outdoor furniture styles, providing a durable and visually pleasing option for outdoor settings.
Key Considerations Before Getting Outdoor Furniture
When it comes to outdoor furniture choices, you can start by considering factors such as maintenance, climate resilience, and budget, ensuring a balance between cost, durability, and aesthetics.
Maintenance Requirements
Different types of wood demand different levels of care, ranging from minimal to extensive. For instance, hardwoods like teak may require periodic sealing or oiling to maintain their natural beauty and resilience against the elements. Softwoods, on the other hand, might necessitate more frequent treatments.
Before making a decision, it's essential to honestly assess your commitment to upkeep. Consider your available time, willingness to perform maintenance tasks, and whether you prefer a weathered, natural look or the pristine appearance of well-maintained furniture.
This evaluation ensures that the chosen wood aligns seamlessly with your lifestyle and preferences, contributing to the longevity and aesthetics of your outdoor space.
Climate and Weather Resistance
The local climate plays a pivotal role in determining the ideal wood for outdoor furniture. Not all woods are created equal when it comes to withstanding the rigors of diverse weather conditions. Some woods excel in humid environments, while others are more resistant to intense sunlight, rain, or cold temperatures.
Choosing wood that is well-suited to your specific climate ensures the longevity and performance of your outdoor furniture.
For example, if you live in a region with frequent rain, opting for wood with natural water-resistant properties or treating the wood with sealants becomes imperative. This consideration is a proactive approach to safeguarding your investment against the potential deterioration caused by climatic factors.
Budget
Balancing cost, durability, and aesthetics is pivotal in the decision-making process for outdoor furniture. While it might be tempting to focus solely on initial affordability, it's crucial to recognize that outdoor furniture is a long-term investment.
Considering the long-term value is vital, as cheaper options may incur higher maintenance costs or need replacement sooner, ultimately proving to be less cost-effective in the grand scheme.
Tips To Maintain Outdoor Wood Furniture
Preserve the beauty and functionality of outdoor wood furniture through regular cleaning with a mild soap solution, application of protective sealants or oils, and periodic inspections for damage, including safeguards against drywood termites and wood borers.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your outdoor furniture consistently with a mild soap solution and a gentle brush. This practice not only removes dirt but also prevents the growth of mould, maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the wood.
If your table happens to feel excessively greasy or sticky, read our guide on how to clean a sticky wooden table!
Sealing or Oiling
Apply protective sealants or oils at regular intervals to enhance the wood's natural resistance and prevent weathering. This proactive measure ensures that your outdoor furniture remains resilient against the elements, contributing to its prolonged lifespan.
Inspect for Damage
Conduct periodic inspections for any signs of damage, such as cracks or splinters, and address them promptly. Regular assessments help maintain the structural integrity of the furniture, ensuring its longevity.
Additionally, incorporate safeguards against wood termites and borers to protect against potential threats and preserve the wood's quality over time.
Choosing The Best Wood For Outdoor Furniture
By understanding the characteristics of different woods and following proper care practices, you can enjoy beautiful and long-lasting outdoor furniture.
At Timber Actually, we carry a ton of high-quality outdoor furniture options that strike the perfect balance between aesthetics, durability, and low maintenance.
For additional options, you can also explore review platforms such as Smart Singa where you can discover other reputable sources offering quality furniture, ensuring that your outdoor setting is not only visually pleasing but also stands the test of time.
FAQs About Outdoor Wood Furniture
Can outdoor wood furniture be left outside year-round?
While many woods are suitable for outdoor use, it's recommended to provide protection during harsh weather to extend their lifespan.
How often should I apply a protective sealant or oil?
The frequency depends on the wood type and environmental conditions. In general, reapply every 6-12 months or as needed.
Can I repaint or stain my outdoor wood furniture?
Yes, you can refresh the appearance by repainting or restaining, but be sure to follow proper preparation and application techniques.
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