Choosing Timber: Pressure-treated, Oil-treated or Natural?
Whether you’re buying or building a potting table, workbench or picnic table, choosing the right timber and treatment can make all the difference.
Pick wisely, and your project can last decades; get it wrong and it may need replacing in just a few seasons.
From pressure-treated to oil treated or naturally durable timber, understanding how each option works and what it’s best for is essential when investing in long-lasting furniture and structures.
In this guide, we’ll break down each treatment, explain what projects they suit best and share the key factors to help you choose timber that really lasts.
What Is Pressure Treated Timber?
Pressure treated timber is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives under a high pressure, giving it long lasting protection against rot, decay, fungi and insect damage.
Unlike surface treatments such as painting or staining, pressure treatment penetrates deep into the timber fibres, providing durability that can last 15-25 years when used correctly outdoors.
Thanks to its strength and durability, pressure-treated timber is ideal for ground-contact structures like planters, as well outdoor furniture that’s exposed to the elements, such as garden chairs and dining sets.
How Does Pressure Treatment Work?
- The timber is placed into a sealed cylinder, and the air is removed to create a vacuum.
- Preservative chemicals are pumped into the wood under pressure.
- Any excess chemicals are drained, and the timber is left to dry before use.
With preservatives locked deep inside, the pressure-treated timber delivers strength and durability you can rely on for decades.
What Is Oil-Treated Timber?
Oil-treated timber is wood that has been coated with natural or synthetic oils to improve its’s resistance to moisture and decay.
Unlike chemical treatments, the oil primarily penetrates the surface layers, enhancing the timber’s natural durability while preserving its grain, colour and overall aesthetic appeal.
Depending on exposure and maintenance, oil-treated timber typically last 5-10 years outdoors.
Reapplying the oil every year can extend its life and help keep the timber looking fresh.
Oil-treated timber is ideal for projects where appearance matters and moderate protection is enough, including picnic benches and garden BBQ tables.
How Does Oil Treatment Work?
- The timber is cleaned and dried to ensure proper absorption.
- The oil is applied to the surface, either by brush, spray or soaking.
- The timber soaks up the oil which penetrates the fibres, providing a water-repelling layer.
- The excess oil is wiped off, and the timber is set to dry.
With its blend of natural beauty and practical protection, oil-treated timber is a reliable choice for outdoor projects that need to look good while standing up to the elements.
What Is Naturally Durable Timber?
Naturally durable timber is wood that is inherently resistant to decay, rot and insect damage without needing chemical treatments.
Its natural protection lies in its natural density, oils and extractives, which act as a built-in barrier against moisture and pests.
These premium timbers have a long lifespan and are aesthetically pleasing, making them ideal for outdoor furniture.
Common examples of naturally durable timber include:
- Cedar
- Oak
- Teak
- Redwood
With their natural strength, beauty and long lifespan, naturally durable timbers are a premium choice for outdoor projects that need to stand the test of time.
How To Choose The Right Timber For Your Project
Choosing the right timber for your project starts with considering whether it will be used indoors or outdoors and understanding the conditions and exposure it will face.
From there, you can match your needs to the timber type, factoring in lifespan, maintenance and budget.
Pressure Treated Timber
Outdoor Lifespan: 15-25 years
Maintenance: Low
Cost: Medium
Best for: Fences, sleepers and decking
Oil Treated Timber
Outdoor Lifespan: 5-10 years
Maintenance: Medium
Cost: Low-medium
Best for: Outdoor furniture, planters
Naturally Durable Timber
Outdoor Lifespan: 20-50 years
Maintenance: Low
Cost: High
Best for: Premium outdoor furniture
Timber Longevity and Maintenance
Even the best timber fails without basic care.
Standing water, trapped moisture and poor airflow reduce lifespan dramatically.
Regular inspection and surface protection extend service life across all timber types.
Read our guide on how to protect your outdoor garden furniture.
Premium Swedish Redwood at MG Timber
At MG Timber, we specialise in premium, long-lasting garden furniture crafted from the finest Swedish Redwood.
Each piece is carefully made using traditional techniques, combining strength, durability and timeless style to enhance your outdoor space for years to come.
Get in contact with a member of our friendly team today for any pre-purchase questions or specific requirements!