What is the best wood for Adirondack chairs?

Cedar is the most popular choice for its natural rot resistance, light weight, and beautiful color. Teak is the premium option for ultimate durability.

What angle should an Adirondack chair be?

The seat should tilt back at about 25-30 degrees for that classic reclined comfort. The back angle is typically 100-105 degrees from the seat.

How do I maintain Adirondack chairs?

Apply exterior stain or sealant every 2-3 years for cedar, or let it weather naturally to a silver-gray patina. Clean annually with a wood cleaner and soft brush.

How to Build Adirondack Chairs: Complete DIY Guide | Lumberama

intermediate

1 weekend per chair (8-12 hours)

$75 - $250 per chair

How to Build Adirondack Chairs (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Building Projects Team

|Last updated May 26, 2026|Sources & methodology

The Adirondack chair is an iconic piece of outdoor furniture known for its reclined comfort and wide armrests. Building your own lets you customize the size and wood species while creating a chair that will last decades. This intermediate project involves some compound angle cuts and curved profiles, making it a great step up from basic woodworking.

Key Takeaways

The Adirondack chair is an iconic piece of outdoor furniture known for its reclined comfort and wide armrests.
Building your own lets you customize the size and wood species while creating a chair that will last decades.
This intermediate project involves some compound angle cuts and curved profiles, making it a great step up from basic woodworking.
Make a full-size template from hardboard for the curved back legs — this ensures both sides match perfectly.
Route a 1/4-inch roundover on all edges to prevent splinters and create a finished look.

Tools Needed

Jigsaw, circular saw, drill/driver, router with roundover bit, tape measure, speed square, clamps, sanding block, compass or flexible curve for templates, safety glasses

Materials List

1x6 and 1x4 cedar or pine boards, 1x3 cedar for slats, 2x6 for seat supports and legs, stainless steel or exterior screws, wood glue, sandpaper (80-120-220), exterior stain or paint, template material (cardboard or hardboard)

Recommended Species

Western Red Cedar, Cypress, Teak, White Oak, Pressure-Treated Pine (for painted chairs)

Recommended Sizes

1x6x8 (back legs, arms), 1x4x8 (slats), 2x6x6 (seat supports and front legs), 1x3x8 (back slats)

Pro Tips

Make a full-size template from hardboard for the curved back legs — this ensures both sides match perfectly. Route a 1/4-inch roundover on all edges to prevent splinters and create a finished look. Use stainless steel screws to prevent rust staining on cedar. Build a matching side table and ottoman to complete the set.