Wooden garden furniture gives your garden a natural and warm appearance. But not every type of wood is suitable for outdoor use. Choosing the right wood is important for durability, ease of maintenance and appearance. In this blog we discuss the most commonly used wood types for garden furniture and help you make a good choice.
Wooden garden furniture gives your garden a natural and stylish appearance. But not every wood type is suitable for outdoor use. In this blog we discuss popular wood types such as oak, teak, acacia, hardwood, softwood, scaffolding wood and pine. We also look at the importance of the FSC mark for a sustainable choice.
What is FSC-certified wood?
The FSC mark (Forest Stewardship Council) indicates that the wood comes from responsibly managed forests. This means:
- No excessive deforestation.
- Protection of plants, animals and biodiversity.
- Social and economic benefits for local communities.
Choosing FSC wood ensures that your garden furniture has a positive impact on the environment and lasts for a long time.
1. Teak wood: The king of garden furniture
Teak wood is one of the most beloved wood types for outdoor use. This tropical hardwood naturally contains oils that protect it from moisture and mould.
Advantages:
- Exceptionally durable and weather-resistant.
- Natural warm appearance.
- Low maintenance, with a beautiful greying over time.
💡 Tip: Choose FSC-certified teak wood to contribute to sustainable forest management.
2. Oak wood: Classic and strong
Oak is a hardwood type with a timeless appearance. It is suitable for outdoor use, provided it is properly treated against moisture.
Advantages:
- Sturdy and robust wood type.
- Classic appearance, ideal for country gardens.
- Relatively easy to work with.
Maintenance:
Oak wood should be treated with a stain or varnish to protect it against the elements.
3. Acacia wood: Sustainable and decorative
Acacia is known for its beautiful wood grain and warm colour. This hardwood type is very durable and perfect for outdoor use.
Advantages:
- Strong and resistant to scratches and cracks.
- Suitable for various styles, from modern to classic.
- More affordable than teak.
Maintenance:
Treat acacia wood regularly with oil or sealer to prevent moisture problems.
4. Hardwood: Weather-resistant and durable
Hardwood includes tropical wood types such as teak, meranti and bankirai. It is sturdy, weather-resistant and lasts a long time.
Advantages:
- Ideal for outdoor use thanks to high density.
- Weather and mould-resistant.
- Long lifespan.
💡 Note: With hardwood, always choose FSC-certified varieties to prevent deforestation.
5. Softwood: Affordable and versatile
Softwood types, such as spruce or pine, are lighter and less durable than hardwood, but with the right treatment they can be suitable for garden furniture.
Advantages:
- Lightweight and easy to work with.
- Affordable and ideal for budget-friendly furniture.
Maintenance:
Softwood requires a protective stain or varnish to ward off moisture and mould.
6. Scaffolding wood: Sturdy and trendy
Scaffolding wood is often made from spruce wood and has a robust, sturdy appearance. It is popular for lounge sets and tables because of its wide planks and natural look.
Advantages:
- Cheap and easy to work with.
- Sturdy, rustic appearance.
- Suitable for DIY projects.
Maintenance:
Untreated scaffolding wood greys quickly. Treat it with a wood protector to keep it looking better for longer.
7. Pine wood: Affordable charm
Pine is a softwood type that is often used for garden furniture. It has a light colour and a warm appearance, but requires extra maintenance.
Advantages:
- Budget-friendly and widely available.
- Suitable for furniture with a country style.
Maintenance:
Pine must be regularly treated with a protective stain or varnish. Without treatment it is less weather-resistant than hardwood.
Why choose FSC-certified wood?
Regardless of which wood type you choose, with FSC-certified wood you can be sure that you are making a sustainable choice. You not only enjoy beautiful furniture, but also contribute to the preservation of forests and biodiversity worldwide.
Curious about which wood types are popular? Then read this article.
Conclusion
Whether you choose the luxury teak wood, the strong oak, the trendy scaffolding wood or the affordable pine, each type of wood has unique properties. Always pay attention to the FSC mark for an environmentally friendly choice and ensure regular maintenance to keep your garden furniture in top condition.
Interested in FSC wooden garden furniture? View the range of wooden garden furniture from Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture and discover sustainable and stylish options for your garden!
