How long does teak outdoor furniture last?

Quality teak outdoor furniture can last 40-75 years, even without any maintenance. Many teak benches in public parks are over 50 years old and still structurally sound.

Does cedar outdoor furniture need to be sealed?

Yes, cedar outdoor furniture should be sealed or oiled annually to maximize its lifespan. Without treatment, cedar furniture may only last 5-10 years outdoors.

Is plantation teak as good as old-growth teak?

Plantation teak has slightly lower oil content and density than old-growth, but is still far superior to most other woods for outdoor use. Always choose plantation teak from FSC-certified sources for sustainability.

furniture

Teak vs Cedar for Outdoor Furniture: Which Wood Wins? (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated July 18, 2026|Sources & methodology

Teak and cedar are the two most popular wood choices for outdoor furniture. Teak is the gold standard for weather resistance and longevity, while cedar offers a more affordable entry into natural wood outdoor furniture. Understanding their differences in durability, maintenance, and cost helps you make the right investment for your outdoor living space.

Teak

Cedar

Key Takeaways

Teak and cedar are the two most popular wood choices for outdoor furniture.
Teak is the gold standard for weather resistance and longevity, while cedar offers a more affordable entry into natural wood outdoor furniture.
Understanding their differences in durability, maintenance, and cost helps you make the right investment for your outdoor living space.
Teak is objectively superior for outdoor furniture longevity and performance, but at 3-5x the price.
Cedar makes sense for budget-conscious buyers or temporary outdoor setups.

Property	Teak	Cedar
Price Range	$$$$ Premium	$$ Moderate
Janka Hardness	1,070 lbf	350 lbf
Weather Resistance	Exceptional	Good
Oil Content	Very high natural oils	Moderate natural oils
Maintenance	Optional - can leave untreated	Annual treatment recommended
Lifespan Outdoors	40-75 years	10-20 years
Weight	Heavy and sturdy	Light and easy to move

Teak

Pros

Exceptional weather resistance, Can last 50+ years outdoors, Natural oils prevent rot, Virtually maintenance-free

Cons

Very expensive, Heavy to move, Grays if left untreated, Sustainability concerns with sourcing

Cedar

Pros

Much more affordable, Lightweight and easy to move, Pleasant natural aroma, Naturally rot resistant

Cons

Much shorter outdoor lifespan, Softer wood dents easily, Requires annual treatment, Will degrade faster in harsh climates

Best Use Cases

Choose teak for buy-it-for-life outdoor furniture that requires minimal maintenance and can handle any climate. Choose cedar for affordable outdoor furniture where budget matters and you don't mind annual upkeep.

Verdict

Teak is objectively superior for outdoor furniture longevity and performance, but at 3-5x the price. Cedar makes sense for budget-conscious buyers or temporary outdoor setups. Teak pays for itself over decades.