How to Choose the Most Durable Wood for Outdoor Dining Chairs?
|
|
Time to read 6 min
| Wood Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
| Teak |
|
|
Luxury outdoor spaces seeking long-term investment |
| Ipe |
|
|
High-end projects needing teak alternative |
| Cedar |
|
|
Those needing portable, lightweight furniture |
| Acacia |
|
|
Budget-conscious buyers wanting decent durability |
| Eucalyptus |
|
|
Short-term outdoor furniture needs |
Picking out the right furniture is the first step in making the perfect outdoor sitting area. The type of wood you choose for outdoor dining chairs can mean the difference between pieces that last for decades and ones that fall apart after just a few seasons. This guide will help you choose the right wood for your outdoor dining chairs based on facts.
Why Choosing the Right Wood for Outdoor Dining Chairs Matters
Outdoor dining chairs are always exposed to challenging elements. Sun, rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations can cause wood to crack, warp, or fade. UV rays damage wood fibers over time, while moisture can cause rot and mold to grow. Choosing the right type of wood will not only make it last longer, but it will also keep its beauty over time.
If you take good care of them, good wooden outdoor eating chairs can last 15 to 25 years. Cheaper ones might need to be replaced after two or three seasons. Some types of wood can look better as they age naturally, creating a unique patina that many homeowners find appealing.
Top Durable Woods for Outdoor Dining Chairs You Should Know
Let's look at the most durable types of wood that can be used for outdoor furniture, examining their unique qualities and how well they work in different settings.
1. Teak: The Ultimate Choice for Outdoor Dining Chairs
Teak has earned its reputation as the gold standard for outdoor dining chairs. It is known that teak is the best material for outdoor eating chairs. Its 2.5% natural oil content helps it fight water damage and keep bugs away. High-quality outdoor teak dining chairs can last more than 50 years, even in harsh coastal settings.
Pros of Teak Wood
- Exceptional durability and weather resistance
- Minimal maintenance requirements
- Beautiful golden-brown color that ages gracefully
- Resistant to rot, decay, and insects
Cons of Teak Wood
- Premium price point ($500-1000 per chair)
- Limited sustainability concerns
- Can be heavy to move
2. Ipe: The Ironwood Option for Outdoor Furniture
Ipe wood, which is also called Brazilian Walnut, is just as durable as teak but costs less. It's very tough and won't rust because it has a fire rating that matches concrete and a density similar to steel.
Pros of Ipe Wood
- Extremely dense and durable
- Natural resistance to insects and decay
- Beautiful dark brown color
- More affordable than teak
Cons of Ipe Wood
- Difficult to work with due to density
- Can be challenging to source sustainably
- Requires annual oil treatment
3. Cedar: Lightweight and Naturally Resistant Dining Chairs
Advantages of Cedar for Outdoor Furniture
Western Red Cedar naturally has preservatives that keep it from rotting and keep bugs away. Because they are so light, cedar folding dining chairs are great for people who like to
Drawbacks of Cedar Wood
While cedar offers good weather resistance, it's softer than teak or ipe, so it's easier to dent and scratch. For longevity, regular upkeep is important, and refinishing is usually needed every two to three years.
4. Acacia: Affordable and Eco-Friendly Outdoor Dining Option
Benefits of Acacia Wood Outdoors
Acacia has become more popular for outdoor furniture because of its excellent value proposition. It can easily stand up to bad weather and, with the right care, last 8 to 10 years. There are many sustainable acacia plantations, which makes it an eco-friendly pick.
Limitations of Acacia Wood
To keep the wood from cracking and warping, it needs regular maintenance. Even though it's strong, it doesn't last as long as high-end choices like teak dining chairs or ipe furniture.
5. Eucalyptus: A Sustainable Alternative for Outdoor Dining Sets
Strengths of Eucalyptus for Outdoor Chairs
Eucalyptus, which grows quickly, is a sustainable choice with good weather resistance. Its natural oils offer some protection against insects and decay, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Challenges with Eucalyptus Wood
The wood might not be as stable as other choices and might move around more when the humidity level changes. To keep its protective qualities, it needs to be serviced once a year.
How to Maintain Wooden Outdoor Dining Chairs
If you hope to expand the lifespan of your wooden outdoor dining chairs, proper care is quite necessary.
Clean Regularly
At least once a month, use a wet cloth to wipe down your chairs to get rid of dust, pollen, and bird droppings. To get a deeper cleaning, use water and mild soap, and scrub gently with a soft brush. Always dry completely after cleaning to prevent water damage.
Check for Water Damage
Every couple of months, especially after it rains, check your chairs for water stains or soft spots. Check under the seat and around the joints where water could gather. If you find any damp areas, make sure they are totally dry, and think about moving the chairs to a more protected area.
Protect from Sun Exposure
Furniture made of wood can fade and crack under direct sunlight. Put chairs away in a shady spot or cover them when they're not in use.
Tighten Loose Parts
Joints and screws can become loose over time and when the temperature changes. Every few months, check all the links and tighten any loose parts. To keep the wood from getting stained, replace any rusty screws with weather-resistant alternatives.
Apply Wood Sealer
Once a year, reseal your wooden dining chairs to keep them safe from damage from water and weather. Pick a a weather-resistant sealer designed for outdoor furniture. On a dry day when it won't rain for at least 24 hours, spread it out in thin, even coats.
Fix Small Damages Right away
As soon as you see small cracks and scratches, fix them. Use a similar wood filler to fix small scratches, then sand the surface smooth. Before you fill in deeper cracks, use wood glue. Quick fixes keep problems from getting worse later.
Store Properly in Harsh Weather
During severe weather or off-season, store chairs in a covered area like a garage or shed. If you have to store things outside, get good waterproof covers for the furniture and make sure the chairs are off the ground.
Oil Moving Parts
If your chairs fold or rock, oil the hinges and moving parts every few months to keep them from rusting and to make sure they work smoothly. Use a weather-resistant lubricant specifically designed for outdoor furniture.
Make the Right Choice for Your Outdoor Dining Chairs
The best wood for your outdoor dining chairs will depend on a number of things, such as your climate, budget, and how easily you want to keep the furniture in good shape. Teak is still the best choice because it lasts a long time and doesn't need much upkeep. However, ipe, cedar, acacia, and eucalyptus are also great choices that come in a range of prices. Just keep in mind that regular maintenance will make any wooden outdoor furniture last a lot longer.
FAQs About Wood Outdoor Dining Chairs
Q: How long do teak outdoor dining chairs typically last?
A: With proper care, teak dining chairs can last 50+ years, even in outdoor conditions.
Q: Is it necessary to cover wood outdoor dining chairs?
A: While not always necessary, using covers during harsh weather can extend furniture life significantly.
Q: How often should I refinish my wooden outdoor chairs?
A: Frequency varies by wood type: teak rarely needs refinishing, while cedar and acacia benefit from treatment every 2-3 years.
Q: Can I leave wood chairs outside year-round?
A: Premium woods like teak and ipe can handle year-round exposure, but most woods benefit from winter storage in severe climates.
Q: What's the most budget-friendly durable wood for outdoor dining chairs?
A: Acacia offers the best value, combining reasonable durability with an affordable price point.