The Best Wood Types for Outdoor Furniture

Wood furniture is the perfect finishing touch to a beautifully landscaped garden. Exuding warm tone and natural patterns, it offers sophistication and elegance in a rather rustic atmosphere. Though aesthetic appeal is what people seek first, outdoor furniture must be created with outstanding durability and weather resistance. Not all woods are of equal quality, so choosing the right type is crucial.

Some woods are softer than others, but that doesn’t mean they are not durable. An example of high-quality softwood is cedar. This wood paints and stains really well so recoloring it to match the rest of the furnishings will not be a problem. It also perfectly retains moisture, making it resistant to cracking. Another example of an excellent softwood is redwood, from the native tree species in California that is universally known for its stability. It does not shrink or warp. It is also naturally resistant to decay and insects. Both cedar and redwood weather and age well. With the right care, they can last for years.

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Meanwhile, hardwood is also a popular choice for outdoor furniture. Teak is one of the most durable woods often used in boatbuilding. It is a hardwood with tight grain and natural oils, making it strong and rot-resistant. It repels water, does not shrink, warp or swell, and ages well. Its superior attributes, however, make it more expensive than other hardwoods. For those with a tight budget, shorea is a cost-effective alternative. Its durability and rot resistance are impeccable and can last for decades regardless of the climate or season.

While these woods can last for years with minimal maintenance, taking good care of them will help them last for generations. Simple cleaning methods such as that with a cloth soaked in a mild soapy solution can go a long way. Varnishing the furniture can also help it have an additional protective coat to shield it from the harsh elements while making it look more polished and stunning.  

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Circus Furniture is a furniture store that has one of the widest furniture selections, one the highest quality furniture pieces, and one of the best services offered in Tucson, Arizona. For more resources on wood furniture, subscribe to this blog.