When it comes to choosing the right type of wood for your garden furniture, there are plenty of options out there. But if you’re looking for a material that’s not only naturally beautiful but also incredibly durable and versatile, then cedar is the way to go.
Cedar is a versatile wood that can be used for a wide range of garden furniture pieces, not just Adirondack chairs. Here are some other great ideas for garden furniture made from cedar:
- Benches – Cedar is an ideal material for outdoor benches, as it is both durable and lightweight. You can choose from a variety of styles, including traditional park benches, curved benches, and backless benches.
- Tables – Cedar tables are another great option for outdoor use, as they are both functional and attractive. You can choose from a variety of sizes and styles, from small bistro tables to large picnic tables.
- Swing Seats: If you’re looking to add a touch of whimsy to your garden, a cedar swing is a great option. You can choose from a variety of styles, including classic porch swings, freestanding swings, and even swings with built-in cup holders.
- Loungers / Outdoor Sofas – If you love to relax in the garden, a cedar lounger is a must-have. You can choose from a variety of styles, including traditional sun loungers, reclining chairs, and even chaise lounges, all of which can be enhanced with the addition of deep seating cushioning for maximum comfort.
- Planters – If you’re looking to add some greenery to your garden, or some colour near your seating area, then a cedar planter or two can make a great option. They will complement your plants beautifully, and also offers a durable enough stature to withstand the elements for many years of use.
Why Is Cedar So Good For Outdoor Items?
Cedar has been used for centuries in construction due to its natural preservative oils and characteristic smell, which make it highly resistant to both insects and rot. But that’s not all – cedar also boasts an incredible thermal co-efficient, meaning that it stays cooler than most other materials in hot weather. And as a lightweight wood, it’s easy to move around and store away.
But what about its strength, you ask? Well, cedar is no lightweight in that department – in fact, it’s a full 80% the strength of mighty oak!
One of the most impressive things about cedar, however, is its dimensional stability. Unlike many other woods, cedar does not expand or contract very much when absorbing or evaporating moisture. This makes it an ideal choice for those living in areas with varying humidity levels, as it doesn’t tend to crack or warp from season to season.
When it comes to fire safety, cedar is also a winner. It has a very low flame-spreading ratio and produces less smoke when burning than other types of wood.
And finally, cedar is highly weather resistant, making it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. If you want to keep your cedar furniture looking fresh and new, you can stain it every year or two. Alternatively, you can allow it to age gracefully into a beautiful silvery gray color. Just remember to treat it properly to protect it from decay, especially if it’s in constant contact with the ground.
So is it worth the price for good quality cedar garden furniture? With cedar’s natural beauty and impressive durability, you can rest assured that your investment will be worth the price tag.