Selecting the right type of wood is crucial for any outdoor project. The outdoor environment can be tough on wood, with exposure to sun, rain, snow and fluctuating temperatures. Choosing wood that is durable and weather-resistant will help your outdoor structures, furniture or decor last for years to come.

When deciding what is the best wood for outdoor use, there are several factors to consider:

Durability

Durability is key when selecting wood for outdoor use. Some wood types naturally resist rot, decay and insect damage better than others. Opt for woods like cedar, redwood, cypress, oak or treated pine. These dense woods contain oils, resins or chemical properties that make them more impervious to the elements. Avoid softer woods like fir, which decay more rapidly.

Here are some durable wood types to consider:

Cedar – This aromatic wood has natural oils that act as preservatives. It resists both rot and insect damage. Cedar is lightweight, easy to cut and stains well. It is a popular choice for decks, outdoor furniture, shingles and patio screens.
Redwood – Like cedar, redwood contains tannins and oils that help preserve it outdoors. It offers exceptional resistance to moisture, decay and insects. It has a reddish color and straight, fine grain. Redwood is commonly used for decks, benches and garden structures.
Cypress – This sturdy wood has a high oil content to protect against rot and insect attack. It also holds up well to moisture. Cypress has good workability and can be easily stained or painted. It’s ideal for porches, garden beds, outdoor floors and privacy screens.
Oak – Oak is an incredibly strong and heavy hardwood. Its density helps repel decay, moisture and insects. It has bold grain patterns and stains beautifully. White oak works well for outdoor furniture, while red oak suits pergolas, fences and porch posts.
Treated Pine – While untreated pine decays quickly outside, pressure-treated pine soaked in preservatives resists damage for 15-30 years. It retains the desirable wood grain and is highly affordable. Use it for structures like sheds, raised beds, docks and decks.

Weather Resistance

Woods that can best handle sun, rain, snow and humidity are ideal for outdoor use. Teak, ipe, redwood and cedar have natural oils, resins and tannins that help fend off water and moisture damage. Avoid non-resistant woods like aspen that easily warp, crack and discolor from the elements.

Here are some weather-resistant woods:

Teak – This tropical hardwood has a high oil content that makes it extremely resistant to water, humidity and sun damage. Although expensive, its weather resistance and durability make it a premier choice for outdoor furniture, boat decks and patios.
Ipe – Also called Brazilian walnut, ipe is dense and resistant to rot, insects, fungi and weather fluctuations. It has an exceptionally long lifespan, but requires pre-drilling and can be difficult to stain. Use it for decks, docks, outdoor benches and tables.
Redwood – As previously mentioned, redwood stands up well to outdoor conditions. Its density and tannins help it resist swelling and shrinking. it’s a great choice when you need dimensional stability in changing weather.
Cedar – Cedar retains its vibrant color and resists cracking or cupping even after years outside. Its natural oils make it suitable for furniture, roofing shakes, planter boxes, shingles and retaining walls.

Strength and Stability

Outdoor structures need to stand up to heavy use, foot traffic, moisture and sun. Strong, stable woods prevent sagging, twisting and cracks. Oaks, Shorea, mahogany and treated pine offer rigidity and longevity outside. Avoid softer woods prone to buckling like aspen or basswood.

Here are some strong, stable wood options:

Oak – Available in red and white varieties, oak is renowned for its incredible strength and hardness. Use it for structural supports like pergolas, trellises, fences and raised beds. Oak also makes durable outdoor furniture able to withstand heavy use.
Mahogany – This luxurious wood has exceptional density and hardness. Mahogany resists checking, cupping and swelling, making it ideal for stable outdoor benches, tables, planters and trim. It also has good insect and rot resistance.
Shorea – Also called lauan or meranti, Shorea is actually a genus of over 300 tropical tree species. It offers good stability along with decay and insect resistance. Use it for garden structures, exterior siding, and outdoor cabinetry.
Treated Pine – While untreated pine is unstable outside, treated pine soaked in preservatives gains durability and longevity. Properly treated, it withstands heavy foot traffic, moisture and sun when used for decks, docks, fences and patio covers.

Appearance

For furniture, accents and decorative projects, appearance is also important. Woods like cedar, redwood, oak and fir have attractive grains and colors that develop a silvery-gray patina over time outdoors. More uniform pines and poplar can be easily painted or stained.

Here are some of the most aesthetically appealing woods for outdoor use:

Cedar – This fragrant wood has a warm reddish-brown hue that grays gracefully to an attractive silvery tone when exposed to sun and rain. Use it for a natural, rustic look.
Redwood – Redwood ranges from pinkish-red to deep reddish-brown. Its rich color and straight grain make it ideal for displaying outdoors. Like cedar, it develops an ornamental silvery-gray patina over time.
Oak – Oak’s bold grain patterns and distinct sapwood and heartwood add visual interest. White oak changes to a silvery tone, while red oak turns grayish-brown outside. Both create an organic, natural look.
Fir – Fir’s soft grain and light color accent outdoor living spaces. As a conifer wood, its knots and burls add uniqueness. Over time it takes on a timeworn, rustic character.
Pine – Pine is prized more for affordability than appearance. However, its warm, honey-toned hue looks attractive stained, painted or left unfinished. Yellow pine ages to gray, while white pine turns silvery.

Workability

Working with the wood is also a consideration. Softer, lightweight woods are easier to cut, drill and nail than dense, heavy hardwoods that often require pre-drilling. Avoid splintering woods like red oak or working with woods that dull tool blades like exotic teak.

Some outdoor woods ranked from most to least workable:

Cedar – Cedar’s low density makes it one of the easiest woods to work with. It cuts smoothly and takes nails and screws well, without pre-drilling. Avoid over-tightening fasteners to prevent splits.
Cypress – Despite its durability, cypress works similarly to pine. It saws, planes, turns and drills easily. Use standard woodworking tools to cut and shape cypress. Take care with nailing to avoid cracks.
Redwood – Redwood has a direct, uniform grain that makes it readily workable with hand and power tools. It cuts cleanly and takes fasteners without pre-drilling. Redwood sands to a smooth finish.
Oak – While very strong, oak can present challenges in working it by hand. Its open grain tends to splinter. Always pre-drill holes for nails or screws. Use carbide-tipped blades when cutting oak to prevent dulling.
Teak – This oily wood quickly wears down tool blades. Work slowly and sharpen blades frequently. Always pre-drill teak when using screws or nails to prevent splitting this brittle wood.

Cost

Budget is a reality for most outdoor building or remodeling projects. While woods like cedar, redwood and cypress are reasonably priced, exotic hardwoods like ipe, mahogany and teak can be quite expensive. Consider appearance along with cost when selecting outdoor woods.

Here is a general ranking of wood types by cost:

Treated Pine – The least expensive option, treated pine offers durability and longevity at a budget-friendly price point for decks, structures, and landscape projects.
Cedar – This popular outdoor wood is moderately priced. Red cedar costs a little more than white cedar, but both offer quality at a reasonable cost.
Redwood – Slightly more costly than cedar, redwood’s resilience and rich color justify the extra expense for many buyers.
Cypress – Comparable to cedar and redwood, cypress falls in the moderate price range while providing excellent performance.
Oak – Durability comes at a price with oak. It costs substantially more than pine or cedar but still fits many budgets.
Ipe – One of the most expensive domestic woods, ipe’s tropical source increases cost but yields unmatched longevity.
Teak – As a premium imported exotic wood, teak commands high prices. But buyers gladly pay for its longevity, beauty and prestige.

Sustainability

Eco-conscious consumers should also analyze the sustainability of any wood they use. Reclaimed woods are best, while Forest Stewardship Council certified woods ensure responsible forest management. Fast-growing domestic pine and cedar from replanted forests offer sustainable alternatives to imported exotic woods.

Here is how some outdoor woods rank by sustainability factors:

Reclaimed Woods – Materials salvaged from old barns, factories or structures are ideal for “green” outdoor projects. Depending on wood type, reclaimed lumber lasts decades.
Treated Pine – Sourced from abundant pine forests across North America, treated pine is a sustainable option for exterior projects. Look for eco-friendly preservatives.
Cedar – Managed cedar forests in North America allow steady replenishment of this renewable and biodegradable softwood. Avoid old-growth cedar.
Redwood – While not an endangered species, redwood sources must be well managed to prevent over-logging. Support conservation efforts when using redwood.
Teak – Imported from southeast Asia, teak logging is controversial due to deforestation concerns. Seek Forest Stewardship Council certified sources if using teak.
Ipe – Also known as Brazilian walnut, exporting ipe wood without proof of responsible harvesting is banned in Brazil. Conscientious sourcing is critical.

Best Uses for Specific Wood Types

Now that we’ve compared the most important factors, here is a summary of ideal uses for specific wood types in outdoor settings:

Cedar

Best Uses: decks, patio covers, outdoor furniture, shingles, retaining walls, raised beds, planters, shutters, fences, screens

Redwood

Best Uses: decks, benches, outdoor structures, planter boxes, landscaping ties, trellises, patio covers

Cypress

Best Uses: porches, gazebos, garden structures, exterior siding, outdoor cabinetry, fences, decking

Oak

Best Uses: pergolas, trellises, fences, raised garden beds, retaining walls, outdoor furniture, deck supports

Treated Pine

Best Uses: decks, patios, sheds, docks, walkways, planter boxes, privacy fencing, retaining walls

Teak

Best Uses: outdoor furniture, boat decking, poolside benches, garden planters and decor

Ipe

Best Uses: decks, porches, patios, outdoor seating, structural supports, docks, walkways

Mahogany

Best Uses: benches, chairs, tables, fencing, trim accents, outdoor cabinetry, garden structures

Fir

Best Uses: decorative projects, flower boxes, rustic furniture, landscape borders and markers

Maintaining Outdoor Wood

Proper care and maintenance will help maximize the lifespan of any wood used outside. Follow these tips:

Allow woods like cedar, redwood and pine to weather naturally to a silver-gray patina. Refrain from staining or painting, which seals in moisture.
Apply protective finishes like varnish or water repellent only sparingly, as needed. Over-applying finishes prevents the wood’s natural breathability.
Inspect wood routinely for signs of damage, wear, rot or insect infestation. Address issues quickly to prevent further deterioration.
Keep wood free of debris and well-ventilated to allow surfaces to fully dry after rain or snow.
Adjust sprinklers to avoid wetting wood. Let wood dry completely between waterings.
Raise wood structures off the ground on concrete piers or footings. This allows airflow and reduces moisture damage and decay.
Wipe down furniture and railings periodically with gentle cleaners. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives.

What is the Best Wood for Outdoor Use: Key Takeaways

Choosing the ideal wood involves assessing durability, weather resistance, strength, aesthetics, workability, cost and sustainability for your particular outdoor project.

While woods like pressure-treated pine are budget-friendly options, cedar, redwood and cypress provide exceptional performance and beauty for a moderate investment. More premium woods like ipe, mahogany or teak offer unmatched longevity and appeal.

Understand each wood’s characteristics and ideal uses when selecting materials for decks, furniture, fencing, structures and more. With proper installation and care, the right outdoor wood can offer decades of service and enjoyment for your landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Wood for Outdoor Use

Outdoor wood projects require selecting suitable wood types to withstand the elements. Here are answers to common questions about choosing the best wood for outdoor use:

Is cedar good for outdoor use?

Yes, cedar is an excellent outdoor wood. It contains natural oils that act as preservatives to resist rot, decay and insect damage. Easy to work with, cedar offers beauty, durability and weather resistance. It’s perfect for decks, outdoor furniture, fences and landscaping projects.

What is more weather resistant cedar or pine?

Cedar is more weather resistant than pine. Cedar’s oils help it resist cracking, cupping, twisting and moisture damage better than pine. Unless treated with preservatives, pine quickly shows signs of wear when exposed to the elements. Cedar can endure years of sun, rain, and snow without decay.

Can pine be used outside?

Untreated pine has very little weather resistance and will rapidly deteriorate when used outdoors. However, pine treated with water-repellent preservative chemicals can last for decades outside. Look for “treated”, “pressure-treated” or “PT” pine rated for ground contact or exterior use.

Is fir good for outdoor use?

While fir has a pleasing grain, it lacks natural water resistance. Fir is prone to swelling, checking, and rot when exposed to the elements. For outdoor uses, choose heartwood fir over sapwood. Heartwood contains resins that increase decay and moisture resistance. Limit outdoor fir to non-structural decorative projects.

What is more expensive cedar or pressure treated?

Cedar boards tend to cost significantly more than pressure-treated pine boards. For example, a 5/4-by-6-inch, 16-foot cedar board averages around $55, while the same size pressure-treated pine board costs roughly $25. Cedar carries a premium price but offers beauty and longevity that justifies the extra expense for many buyers.

Is Ipe better than teak for outdoors?

Ipe and teak have slightly different strengths. Teak resists sun damage better, while ipe withstands moisture, insects, and fungi more effectively. Ipe’s hardness and durability give it an edge for structural applications like decking. However, teak’s workability and stunning looks make it ideal for outdoor furniture. Both are premium woods that last decades outdoors.

Does cedar gray naturally outside?

Left unfinished outdoors, cedar wood grays naturally to an ornamental silvery-gray tone. Sunlight and rain trigger the release of lignin and tannins in cedar that wash away colored pigments and leave behind a whitish patina. Many outdoor cedar projects are left untreated to achieve this timeworn, rustic weathered appearance.

Do you need to treat outdoor oak?

Outdoor oak projects benefit from added protection. While oak has good natural durability, a topcoat helps maintain the wood’s original color and delay the onset of graying. Spar varnish, tung oil or water repellent sealers help reduce moisture damage and prevent surface mildew or mold. Avoid film-building finishes that don’t allow the wood to properly breathe.

Does pressure treated pine need staining?

Staining is not required for pressure treated pine. In fact, many manufacturers recommend allowing new treated wood to weather naturally for 6-12 months before applying any topcoat. This allows excess preservatives and chemicals to dissipate. Once weathered, high-quality stains or sealers can help refresh treated wood’s appearance after a few years.

Conclusion

The ideal wood for outdoor uses will offer durability, weather resistance, strength and beauty to withstand years of exposure and use. While budget-friendly pressure treated pine is suitable for many projects, woods like cedar, redwood, cypress and high-quality tropical hardwoods provide superior longevity and appeal. Take time to analyze the unique characteristics of each wood to select the best species for your particular needs. With proper installation and care, you can create enduring outdoor structures, furniture and accents to enjoy for decades to come using the right materials.

What is the Best Wood for Outdoor Use?