What Is the Best Hardwood for Outdoor Furniture?
Teak leads the field for outdoor furniture thanks to its natural oil content, dimensional stability and remarkable resistance to rot, but it is not the only sensible answer for a British garden. This guide compares teak, acacia, eucalyptus, oak and iroko, explains why density and grain matter more than appearance once furniture is exposed to persistent damp, and sets out which timbers to avoid outdoors altogether. You will find practical advice on judging joinery quality, oiling schedules, cleaning without damaging the grain, and how to weigh initial cost against realistic lifespan. Whether you are furnishing a shaded courtyard or a south facing terrace, we explain how to match timber to the way your garden behaves....