A Quick Guide to Wood Patio Furniture

Wood patio furniture is one of the highest quality options for outdoor furniture. Not only does it look gorgeous against any setting or outdoor environment, but it is also incredibly durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. Different types of wooden outdoor furniture have distinctive benefits and unique qualities, and it is important to know the differences before purchasing new pieces. Use this quick guide to learn more about three of the most popular types of wood outdoor furniture: teak, cedar, and rustic log.

• Teak: Teak outdoor furniture is probably the most popular type of wood patio furniture available. Teak originates from extreme conditions in Asian rainforests, and is extremely strong and resistant to any weather conditions. Its durability and ability to prevent rust or corrosion when in contact with metal has also made teak a popular building material in homes and boats. Teak patio furniture has natural chemicals in its wood that produces its beautiful honey color, while helpfully repelling insects and destructive fungi. If left bare, teak outdoor furniture will fade to a natural silver color. You can also choose to maintain the original golden brown appearance of teak garden furniture by sanding regularly, or applying teak oil every few months.
• Cedar: Cedar furniture has several unique benefits that may be unknown to the average consumer. Cedar outdoor furniture has a thermal coefficient, which basically means it has little air pockets in the wood, which insulates it well against extreme heat. This means it will maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the hot summer months. Another benefit of cedar patio furniture is that it has a natural pleasant aroma, which is spicy and reminiscent of warm ski lodges and fireplaces. The smell is also a natural repellant for bugs and insects. Cedar wood also has oils that protect it from decay and rot, which makes it able to withstand humid conditions – this is why cedar used in saunas and spas. Cedar outdoor furniture also has a relatively heavy weight, making it difficult for strong winds to move or overturn your tables and chairs.
• Log: Log furniture is most often made of pine, hickory, cedar, or teak wood. Rustic log furniture’s greatest appeal is its appearance: a log bench or table provides a rural country feeling to your patio space that naturally blends with any surroundings. The wide natural shape of the logs also renders log furniture incredibly comfortable, even without cushions. Another great benefit of outdoor log furniture is that many manufacturers will harvest their wood by topping trees, which is a process that actually benefits the tree, and helps the environment.

This quick guide should help you with your wood outdoor furniture selection. No matter what type of wood patio furniture you purchase, be sure to cover it with a well-fitted patio furniture cover, so as to prevent damage and strain on the wood. Enjoy your new furniture, and the warm summer months on your patio.