Which Wood Should You Choose for Outdoor Furniture?

Outdoor furniture is made from various woods. Redwood, cedar, and teak are three of those woods. Each type has its own benefits.
First, redwood is an evergreen of the cypress family. Coast redwood, and California redwood in particular, is fairly soft, a 2 on a scale of 1 to 4, has a reddish color, and a straight grain. It is resistant to moisture and decay, is light weight, and valued for its beauty. Because redwood lacks resin, it is resistant to fire. It is used in outdoor furniture including swings and benches, as well as decks.
Next, the most common type of cedar is Western Red Cedar, native to the northwest United States and southwestern Canada. It has a reddish color, a straight grain, and a slight aromatic smell. It is a coniferous tree of the cypress family. Cedar is relatively soft, 1 on a scale of 1 to 4. It can absorb moisture, allowing it to handle moist environments without rotting. The wood and oil of cedar are natural repellants to moths. Cedar chests, as well as outdoor furniture, decks, and building exteriors are made of cedar.
In addition, teak is a tropical deciduous hardwood birch native to south and southeast Asia in the countries of India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. Because of the popularity of teak for outdoor furniture, boat decks, indoor flooring, and other indoor uses, plantations for teak production have developed. It is cultivated in Africa and the Caribbean, as well as in Asia. Teak contains natural oils that make it resistant to decay, insects, and bacteria. It is durable with or without being treated with oil or varnish. It can withstand changes in weather and seasons. On a scale of 1 to 4 in hardness, teak is a 3. It is a strong and beautiful wood, with color of brown to dark gold.
What is the difference between soft and hard wood? The designation doesn’t necessarily mean the wood is soft or hard. For example, balsa is classified as a hardwood, but is softer than any commercial softwood. Similarly, yew is a softwood, but is harder than some hardwoods. Those who work with wood are aware of the differences.
In conclusion, when choosing garden or porch swings, gliders, benches, or other outdoor furniture, redwood, cedar, and teak are popular and durable choices. These woods hold long-lasting beauty and any furniture made of these three woods make a striking addition to any yard. The final decision of wood you choose for your outdoor furniture is your preference.