When it comes to material recommendations for your patio furniture, teak will always top the list from professional and personal sources alike. This hardwood has a reputation for durability and style that is known to all. As the Jamaican proverb goes,“ If yuh waan good yuh nose haffi run.” For some, the price of solid teak furniture is sure to make your nose run. They are usually the most expensive wood furniture in stores with a single chair costing upwards of JMD 90,000.00. But, I find most don’t know that there are other durable teak alternatives for outdoor furniture! Woods like cedar, eucalyptus and acacia are more economical than teak and known for their durability. To help you make an informed decision when next you’re shopping for patio furniture I have compiled a comparison of cost, durability, maintenance and aesthetic appeal for teak, eucalyptus, cedar and acacia.
Cost Comparison
Teak: Teak has the highest initial cost of all four options. Be prepared for prices in excess of $500,000 for ready-made conversation sets and over $180,000 for chair sets. The heavy initial outlay is offset by minimal maintenance costs over a long lifespan.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is less expensive than teak but can be more expensive than cedar and acacia. Conversation sets can cost in excess of $350,000 and chair sets over $100,000.
Cedar: Cedar pieces can be similar or less than that of eucalyptus and significantly less than teak. Conversation sets can cost in excess of $200,000 and over $80,000 for chair sets.
Acacia: Acacia is the least expensive of all four options. This is the best option for budget-conscious shoppers who want some level of durability and are willing to take on maintenance. Conversation sets can cost in excess of $175,000 and chair sets over $70,000
*For easy comparison, prices are stated in Jamaican dollars and are based on the average price for popular items - conversation sets and chairs.
Durability
Teak: Teak is undoubtedly the most durable option. Its natural oils make it more resistant to the common issues with wood furniture (water, rotting, insects). Teak pieces are generational: when taken care of, they can last well over 45 years.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is also a very durable option. Its natural oils allow it to withstand the elements more than other hardwoods. It is possible for eucalyptus pieces to last 25 years or more with proper care.
Cedar: Although she’s no teak, cedar furniture still shows durability once you follow regular maintenance practices or keep it in a semi-covered area. Following regular maintenance, it's possible to have a lifespan of 15-20 years or longer.
Acacia: Despite being the least durable option, acacia still has considerable strength. It does require more frequent maintenance and care but can last 10 to 15 years.
Maintenance
Teak: This is the most low-maintenance option. You can get by by applying teak oil every 1-2 years; this helps with maintaining the teak’s signature golden brown colour. As I mentioned earlier, the natural oils provide more longevity than other hardwoods. Teak furniture can last untreated for many years and develop a beautiful silver-grey patina over time.
Eucalyptus: This wood is in the mid-range for maintenance. Similar to teak, eucalyptus pieces can be treated with wood oil every year to maintain the colour and preserve the wood.
Cedar: Cedar isn’t high maintenance but it isn’t exactly low maintenance. You can follow a routine of oiling twice a year depending on the exposure to the elements.
Acacia: Acacia requires the most maintenance of all four options. Be prepared to oil acacia pieces 3 times per year.
*Durability and maintenance schedule can be impacted by your placement of furniture, ie, whether it's fully exposed, partially exposed or completely protected. The type of wood oil used can also impact durability.
Aesthetics
Teak: Teak is known for its long straight grain and light to golden brown color. It has a timeless look that can suit a variety of design styles.
Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus typically has a light to reddish brown colour that can darken over time. It can have a straight or wavy grain and can give outdoor furniture a contemporary look.
Cedar: Cedarwood has a natural red hue that makes it perfect for those looking to add a touch of warmth. It also takes well to coloured wood oil stains and paints.
Acacia: Acacia is typically light brown and has a smooth grain pattern. Pieces made from acacia can add a touch of elegance to your space.
To sum it up, teak is still the best option, but it’s not your only option. Don’t despair if teak prices are above your budget. You can still get beautiful, long-lasting wooden patio furniture if you choose to go with less expensive wood types. It is important to follow a maintenance schedule with your wood outdoor furniture to ensure you prolong the lifespan of your pieces.
Share your experience with your wood patio furniture in the comments below - make sure to include the wood type you have
What's your patio furniture made of?
Teak
Cedar
Eucalyptus
Acacia
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