CHOOSING THE BEST WOOD FOR OUTDOOR FURNITURE
The Drift
Wood has been used for furniture as long as humans have been around—and for a good reason. Its malleability, beauty, and versatility are just as appealing today as they were hundreds of years ago. With eye-catching grains, earthy tones, and modular patterns, wood furniture creates the perfect aesthetic for any patio. What’s the best wood for outdoor furniture? How do you protect outdoor wood furniture for maximum longevity? We’ve got you covered.
There are two types of wood that typify the wood furniture market: hardwoods and softwoods.
In our experience, the best wood for outdoor furniture comes from top-of-the-line hardwood such teak.
Teak outdoor furniture will repel water, deter insects, and won’t warp with changes in humidity.
With time, furniture made from hardwood varieties will weather out to a beautiful silver-gray color. Should you choose to do so, teak is particularly easy to restore to its original golden color, especially compared to other hardwoods like ipe or mahogany. Many designers and homeowners will agree that this pushes teak ahead of its alternatives, making it the best wood for outdoor furniture.
Covered or not, even the best wood for outdoor furniture could still benefit from a protectant. Overall, choosing the ideal method for how to protect outdoor wood furniture comes down to personal preference.
Most wood protectants are offered in either water or oil-based versions. Choosing the best protectant for your furniture depends on your furniture and environment.
Once you’ve selected and protected your wooden outdoor furniture, you’ll be set to enjoy your outdoor space for years to come.
When it comes to picking the best wood for outdoor furniture and protecting the pieces you already own, it really comes down to choosing the most durable species and protectants available. There is no shortage of wood varieties and sealants on the market, making choosing the best pieces and protectants a challenge.
WHAT IS THE BEST WOOD FOR OUTDOOR FURNITURE?
There are two types of wood that typify the wood furniture market: hardwoods and softwoods. Both are graded and offer structural and aesthetic advantages and disadvantages. As their names suggest, the main difference between the two is that hardwoods are typically stronger and denser than their softwood counterparts. Within both subgroups are weather-resistant species that are great for outdoor use. Cypress, redwood, and cedar are three softwoods that have natural moisture-wicking properties and make fine choices for outdoor furniture. But in our opinion, the best wood for outdoor furniture comes from top-of-the-line hardwoods such as ipe, mahogany, and teak.
TEAK OUTDOOR FURNITURE
With time, furniture made from any of these wood varieties will weather out to a beautiful silver-gray color. Teak is particularly easy to restore to its original color, especially compared to other hardwoods like ipe or mahogany. Many designers and homeowners will agree that this pushes teak ahead of its alternatives, making it the best wood for outdoor furniture.
A tropical hardwood, teak is one of the most beautiful and durable woods used in outdoor furniture. Teak’s natural oils are responsible for their amazing weather-resistant properties. Teak outdoor furniture will repel water, deter insects, and won’t warp with changes in humidity.
HOW TO PROTECT OUTDOOR WOOD FURNITURE
Sunlight and moisture can go to work on wood furniture—and not in a good way. Wood can also become a breeding ground for insects, fungi, and other organisms. Additionally, when moisture starts to penetrate the wood’s exterior, it will start to expand and eventually split.
The good news is that if your wood furniture is made from high-quality hardwood or softwood, it’s got some natural barriers in place. Nonetheless, it’s important to protect your wood furniture with a fitted furniture cover and a high-quality protectant. Overall, choosing the ideal method for how to protect outdoor wood furniture comes down to personal preference.
OIL VS WATER-BASED PROTECTANTS
Most wood protectants are offered in either water or oil-based versions. In general, penetrating oil finishes are the easiest to apply and the most forgiving of errors. As the name implies, these oils are absorbed into the wood, creating a barrier against moisture and sunlight. These oils will not leave a “film” layer on the wood, making them less prone to chipping and flaking. This characteristic makes them a great protectant for outdoor furniture. You’ll probably need 2-3 coats for a dark, rich color.
Water-based protectants provide longer-lasting color retention, but there are a few things to consider first. Water-based protectants are more breathable, encouraging wood to use its natural protective properties, which can make them a great choice for wood with natural weather-resistant abilities. Unlike oil alternatives, they don’t trap moisture in the wood. These protectants are often environmentally friendly and free of toxic chemicals. They are easy to apply and clean up and are a great protector against mold, mildew, and other elements.
Wood outdoor furniture is a classic choice for patio decor. Once you’ve selected the best wood for outdoor furniture, you’ll be set to enjoy your outdoor space for years to come. For more information on maintaining your furniture, see our tips for teak furniture care.