How To Choose Between Patio Furniture Made From Cedar Or Pine Wood

Wood is a popular choice for patio furniture and outdoor décor for many reasons. Its natural beauty adds warmth and character to an outdoor space and fits right in. Softwoods are lightweight and versatile in nature, which is why cedar and pine are commonly used for outdoor furniture. Cedar has a rich, reddish-brown color with a natural grain pattern, while pine has a lighter color with a yellow or pale brown tone. Because they look so different, your choice will largely depend on what kind of look you want to achieve in your patio space.

When choosing between the best materials for your patio furniture, it's also important to consider comfort, durability, suitability, and how each material performs, while your budget and the level of maintenance involved are two other important factors. One practical tip is to compare samples of both wood options in person before making your decision.

Cedar has a nice rustic look that blends well with nature. It is generally more durable than pine as it's resistant to rot, decay, and insect infestation. Cedar also requires less maintenance due to its natural oils which reduce the need for regular treatments or finishes. Cedar furniture can be left unfinished and age beautifully into a silver-gray patina. It also has a nice, fresh scent created by its natural oils that repel insects. It is great for humid climates but can also stay cool in heat due to its porosity.

If you want to DIY your patio furniture, you'll be glad to know that cedar works great with nails and screws. Because of the uniqueness of its natural color and its changing nature, however, cedar might not always match the rest of your space as easily as pine, so that's something to note. Cedar is also the more expensive option of the two and requires resealing every couple of years. Ultimately, it has more benefits than pine and might be the better choice for your patio furniture.

Even though pine initially requires pressure treatment, it is highly resistant to discoloration, rot, and wear. It will also be very durable as treated pine can last up to 25 years outside! It also has an attractive, light color that is easy to finish due to its grain structure, meaning you can paint it any color you want. Pine wood is easy to find in the U.S. so it's typically a more cost-effective option than cedar, which is great if budget is a deciding factor.

Pine furniture is also heavier, which is good if you want furniture that won't be moved much. Like cedar, it is also easy to work with if you want to use it for a DIY project as it can be treated and finished at home. However, it isn't easy to sand, which makes it smooth. Pine is often a better choice for indoor furniture material or on a shaded patio.