How to Know your Garden Furniture is Weather-Resistant

When it comes to choosing garden furniture, especially handcrafted wooden pieces like picnic benches, tables and chair sets, workbenches etc. weather resistance is key. If you’re the type who loves hosting family BBQs or simply enjoys a well-kept garden that’s ready to impress all year round, knowing which furniture can stand up to the elements is crucial. Let’s dive into the key design elements that ensure long-term durability and how different climates should influence your choices.

 

Key Design Elements for Weather-Resistant Wooden Furniture

 

Material Quality and Type

Not all wood is created equal when it comes to weather resistance. Hardwoods like teak, oak and cedar are particularly robust choices for outdoor furniture. These woods are dense, containing natural oils and also resist warping or rotting when exposed to moisture. For example, Teak is renowned for its natural water resistance, making it a top choice for garden furniture that can brave the elements.

That’s not to say that softwoods like the Swedish redwood we use in our handcrafted furniture aren’t also extremely weather resistant. In fact, we use this material because of how dense and durable it is, in addition to the natural chemicals found in its pores making it ideal for use in outdoor applications.

 

Finish and Treatment

The treatment on your wooden furniture plays a huge role in its ability to withstand weather conditions. Look for furniture that has been treated with weatherproof sealants or oils. These treatments help to seal the wood’s pores, preventing moisture from penetrating the surface, which could lead to rot and mildew. Regularly applying a protective oil or varnish will also help maintain the wood’s rich colour and prevent it from greying over time.

We treat our outdoor furniture with a Tanalith E pressure treatment. This pressure treatment is easily absorbed by our Swedish redwood tables, chairs, benches and more, making them much more resistant to threats associated with wet or damp weather conditions such as rot, mould, fungus etc.

 

Construction Techniques

Quality craftsmanship goes beyond the type of wood used. Pay attention to how the furniture is put together. Joints should be sturdy and well-fitted to avoid water seeping into crevices where it can cause damage. Mortise and tenon joints, as opposed to simple screws or nails, provide superior durability and strength, especially in varying weather conditions. The design should also allow for some flexibility to accommodate natural expansion and contraction of the wood with temperature changes.

 

Design Features

The design of the furniture itself can also contribute to its weather resistance. Slatted surfaces, for example, allow water to drain off easily, preventing pooling that could lead to wood damage. Slightly angled surfaces and raised legs can also help keep the furniture dry by reducing contact with wet ground, further enhancing its longevity.

 

How Different Climates Influence Your Furniture Choices

 

Humid and Rainy Climates

In areas where rain is frequent, moisture resistance is your top priority. Teak and cedar are excellent choices here due to their natural oils that repel water. Furniture in these climates should also be treated more frequently with sealants to maintain its protective barrier. Consider pieces that have slatted surfaces to ensure water drains quickly and doesn’t linger on the surface, which could lead to mildew or rot.

 

 Hot and Dry Climates

In hot, dry climates, the intense sun can cause wood to dry out, crack and fade. Here, a UV-resistant finish is crucial to protect the wood from sun damage. Woods like eucalyptus are good choices as they naturally withstand dry conditions without splitting. However, regular maintenance with oils can help prevent the wood from drying out too much, ensuring it remains in top condition.

 

Cold and Frosty Climates

For regions with harsh winters, where freezing temperatures and frost are common, the expansion and contraction of wood can lead to cracking. Here, it’s vital to choose furniture that can withstand these fluctuations. Cedar is a good choice for cold climates as it’s resistant to warping. It’s also a good idea to cover your furniture or store it in a shed during the coldest months to protect it from frost damage.

 

General Maintenance Tips for All Climates

Regardless of where you live, regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your garden furniture. A few simple practices can go a long way:

• Clean regularly: Dirt and debris can hold moisture, which accelerates wear and tear. Wipe down your furniture regularly, especially after rain.
• Apply protective treatments: At least once a year, reapply a protective finish to keep the wood sealed and protected.
• Cover when not in use: When you’re not using your furniture for extended periods, consider using weatherproof covers to shield it from the elements.

 

Conclusion

Choosing weather-resistant garden furniture is more than just picking the right materials—it’s about understanding the design, craftsmanship and maintenance that ensure long-term durability. Whether you face rain, intense sun or frosty winters, our range of handcrafted wooden furniture is designed to withstand the elements and elevate your outdoor space. Ready to find the perfect pieces for your garden?

Browse our collection of weather-resistant picnic benches, tables and chairs today. And if you want to learn more, explore our Knowledge Base for expert buying guides and aftercare advice to keep your furniture looking its best year-round.