Teak vs Cedar: Premium Oil-Rich Wood vs Affordable Natural Choice (2026)
Teak and cedar both offer natural outdoor durability, but at vastly different price points and performance levels. Teak is the world's premier outdoor wood with exceptional oil content, while cedar provides dependable natural resistance at a fraction of the price. This comparison helps determine when the teak premium is justified.
Teak
Cedar
Key Takeaways
- Teak and cedar both offer natural outdoor durability, but at vastly different price points and performance levels.
- Teak is the world's premier outdoor wood with exceptional oil content, while cedar provides dependable natural resistance at a fraction of the price.
- This comparison helps determine when the teak premium is justified.
- Cedar handles 80% of outdoor wood needs at an accessible price.
- Teak is the ultimate splurge for outdoor furniture and marine applications where nothing else will do.
| Property | Teak | Cedar |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness Janka | 1070 | 350 |
| Density Lbft3 | 40 | 23 |
| Price Range | $12.00-$25.00/bf | $2.50-$4.50/lf |
| Durability Class | Class 1 — exceptional | Naturally durable — moderate |
| Color | Golden honey with oily sheen | Warm reddish-brown |
Teak
Pros
- Unmatched natural oil content for weatherproofing
- Three times harder than cedar
- Lasts 50+ years in outdoor conditions
- Premium look and feel
Cons
- 5-8 times more expensive than cedar
- Very heavy for its application
- Quality varies between plantation sources
Cedar
Pros
- Affordable natural outdoor wood
- Lightweight and easy to work
- Widely available at all lumber yards
- Pleasant aromatic scent
Cons
- Much shorter lifespan than teak
- Very soft surface
- Requires regular maintenance
Best Use Cases
Choose teak for heirloom-quality outdoor furniture, marine applications, and projects where longevity and oil content justify the investment. Choose cedar for budget-friendly decking, fencing, and outdoor projects where periodic replacement is acceptable.
Verdict
Cedar handles 80% of outdoor wood needs at an accessible price. Teak is the ultimate splurge for outdoor furniture and marine applications where nothing else will do.