Outdoor wooden garden furniture has a certain natural charm that makes it an attractive option among UK homeowners for their outdoor space. Additionally, there are many different types to choose from — and there’s a likely chance that you would like the furniture you purchase to be durable.
But which types of outdoor wooden garden furniture will resist rot, decay, and insects the most?
We provide the answer to this question in this article — and more.
Let’s get started...
Why it’s important to purchase garden furniture made with durable wood
There are many reasons why you should consider buying garden furniture that’s been made with durable wood. Let’s take a look at three of them:
- Weather
Largely because of their high natural oil content, outdoor furniture made from durable wood will withstand the elements. - Cost
Since durable outdoor wooden garden furniture typically comes with a long lifespan of ten years or more, you’ll get more out of your investment. - Maintenance
Certain types of wooden outdoor furniture require much less maintenance than other popular materials. For example, many types only need a good wash and brush down once a year.
Most durable types of wood for garden furniture
Let’s now take a look at different types of durable wood that you can choose from for your garden furniture.
Teak
Teak is the most durable wood for garden furniture. It’s a type of hardwood that’s got enough natural oils to ensure that it won’t rot or decay easily, and it’s also water-repellent. This means it can withstand harsh weather conditions better than any other type of wood.
Even better, teak doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. While you will still need to clean it, and it’s still advisable to invest in protective covers, teak garden furniture can last for twenty-five years or more.
Oak
Oat is an extremely durable wood, which is what makes it great for outdoor furniture. Although not as strong as teak, it will withstand the elements and has commonly been used to build churches. This wood also has a natural resistance to fungi and pests — making it less vulnerable to rot and decay.
With that in mind, oak furniture will need regular maintenance and a protective sealant to prolong its lifespan while outside in your garden.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is another popular choice in the UK, with homeowners attracted to its charming beauty. Native to Australia but also available in different parts of the world, this type of wood is eco-friendly because of its rapid growth rate.
At the same time, eucalyptus garden furniture is also remarkably durable. Like teak, it is a type of hardwood that’s strong and rot-resistant. It’s also insect-repellent and can last for years and years provided it’s properly taken care of.
Cedar
Cedar is another durable wood for garden furniture that, when correctly maintained, can last for more than 25 years.
Cedar is strong, it’s got natural oils that, like teak and eucalyptus, help it resist damage inflicted by water, decay and insects, and, while it will eventually fade into a gorgeous grey patina, you’ll get many years to enjoy its natural pinkish-red tones.
Cedar is especially useful for garden chairs, thanks to its strength, while an additional bonus is that it’s a more affordable option than teak.
Final Thoughts
If longevity is a priority of yours when buying garden furniture, durable woods like teak, eucalyptus, and cedar are among your best options. These are types of hardwood that are strong, sturdy, and rot-resistant, and which are as aesthetically pleasing as they are long-lasting.
Softwood like pine is a more affordable option and, when made of a high-quality and treated correctly, it, too, can last for a number of years.