Best Wood for Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor furniture is a great way to spruce up your backyard or patio, but choosing the best wood for outdoor furniture is important to creating something that’s truly quality. 

Whether you’re looking to make outdoor furniture for yourself or you want to start a furniture business, this blog post will guide you through selecting the best wood for outdoor furniture. 

We will also share maintenance tips to preserve your outdoor wood furniture.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Wood

When selecting the best wood for outdoor furniture, consider durability, aesthetics, weight, cost, and upkeep.

• Durability is a must when deciding on a type of wood. Wood that resists rot, decay, and pests is required for exposure to the elements.
• Aesthetics are important because you want your furniture to look good. Some woods exude a more natural appeal, while others are more polished. The wood’s color and how it weathers over time are also key considerations.
• Weight is a practical consideration when selecting the best wood for outdoor furniture. If you anticipate moving your pieces often, opt for lightweight woods like pine, cedar, or cypress. These choices are easier to maneuver and offer natural resistance to decay and insects, making them ideal for outdoor use.
• Maintenance is something else you need to consider. Some woods demand more upkeep than others. For instance, teak furniture benefits from regular oiling to shield it from the elements. In contrast, with its natural resistance to decay, redwood furniture requires minimal maintenance.

​​Hardwood or Softwood: Which to Choose?

When selecting the best wood for outdoor furniture, you can choose between hardwood and softwood. Each wood type has its merits and drawbacks, and considering these factors is crucial before deciding.

Hardwood is the preferred choice for outdoor furniture due to its superior durability and resistance to decay and pests. While the initial investment may be higher, the extended lifespan of hardwood furniture makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run. 

This is the best wood for outdoor furniture for small business owners and experienced woodworkers with access to a powerful CNC machine like the ShopSabre Pro Series. 

Balau, teak, and eucalyptus are popular hardwood options for outdoor furniture.

Softwood, while a more economical choice, is less durable than hardwood. Its susceptibility to rot and insect damage may limit its lifespan. However, its malleability makes it an excellent option for DIYers and beginner woodworkers.

Popular Types of Wood for Outdoor Furniture

Teak, a tropical hardwood, is a natural choice for outdoor furniture due to its innate resistance to rot, decay, and pests. Its durability makes it an ideal selection. Teak furniture boasts a signature deep golden hue and will gracefully weather to a distinguished silvery patina over time.

Mahogany, another tropical hardwood, is celebrated for its appearance and durability. Its rich, reddish-brown hue and uniform grain make it one of the best-looking woods. Mahogany’s natural resistance to rot, decay, and pests makes it a top contender for outdoor pieces.

Cypress, a softwood indigenous to the southeastern United States, is favored for its lightweight and workable nature, ideal for DIY furniture projects. While it is naturally resistant to rot and decay, it falls short of the longevity offered by teak or mahogany.

Redwood, a softwood indigenous to the western United States, is known for its lightweight nature and ease of manipulation, making it an excellent selection for DIY furniture. Its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects gives it a significant advantage over some other woods.

Best Finishes for Outdoor Wood Furniture

Protecting your outdoor wood furniture from the elements is important for its appearance and longevity. There are many finishes to choose from, each offering different benefits and characteristics. 

Here are some of the best options for outdoor wood furniture finishes:

Oil finishes are designed to penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and providing excellent water repellency. This makes them a popular choice for those wanting a rich, natural look while protecting against moisture damage. 

However, poorly applied oil finishes can darken the wood over time and may cause slight swelling or warping. If you go this route, make sure to research the best oil for outdoor wood furniture.

Stain and sealants offer a two-part defense for your outdoor furniture. Stains add color to the wood and help guard against harmful UV rays. Sealants provide a barrier to lock out moisture, which can cause wood to swell and warp over time. While stains and sealants come in various colors, they can be more difficult to apply than oil finishes and may require more frequent maintenance. 

Being selective when shopping for the best sealer for outdoor wood furniture can help you mitigate these risks.

Polyurethane is a synthetic coating that is known for its exceptional durability and weather resistance. It creates a tough, protective layer that guards the wood against the sun, rain, and other harsh outdoor elements. However, polyurethane finishes are more expensive and require careful application techniques.

You can have the best spray for outdoor wood furniture, but no matter which finish you choose, the application is the key. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results, and be sure to apply the finish in a well-ventilated area and use the proper safety equipment.

Caring for Your Outdoor Wood Furniture

Proper maintenance of your outdoor wood furniture is crucial to its structural and visual longevity. 

Here are some tips to make sure you are caring for your outdoor wood furniture correctly:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean your furniture to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Use a mild detergent and warm water, and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Rinse the furniture thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
• Sanding: Over time, your furniture may develop rough spots or splinters. To smooth out the surface, sand it lightly with fine-grit sandpaper. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain.
• Sealing: Sealing your furniture will help to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan. Apply a sealant specifically designed for outdoor wood furniture, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
• Storing: The optimal practice for those living in regions with severe winters is to store your outdoor wood furniture during the off-season. A dry, sheltered location is ideal for protection from the elements. 

Create Beautiful Outdoor Furniture With a ShopSabre CNC Router

Whether you are a novice or a seasoned woodworker, ShopSabre offers a CNC router tailored to your needs. 

Our affordable, American-made machines help you effortlessly cut, shape, and assemble the best wood for outdoor furniture, creating beautiful pieces that you or those who buy from you will hold onto for years.

Explore our range of CNC routers today!