Choosing the right wood for your garden bench is an investment in long-term enjoyment and minimal upkeep. When comparing teak and cedar, the question of which lasts longer has a clear frontrunner: teak.
Teak, particularly high-grade tropical teak, is the champion of longevity for outdoor furniture. Its natural oils and tight grain make it incredibly resistant to moisture, rot, insects, and cracking. A teak bench can gracefully weather decades outdoors with minimal care, eventually developing a distinguished silvery-gray patina. While premium teak comes at a higher initial cost, its legendary durability often makes it a lifetime purchase.
Cedar, specifically Western Red Cedar, is also an excellent outdoor wood. It contains natural preservatives (thujapsenes) that deter decay and insect damage. A cedar garden bench is naturally beautiful, lightweight, and has good dimensional stability. However, it is generally less dense and oily than teak. Without regular sealing or staining, cedar will weather to a gray color and may show signs of wear, such as surface checking (small cracks), faster than teak. With proper maintenance every few years, a cedar bench can last 10-15 years or more beautifully.
The Verdict: For absolute, hands-off longevity and durability, teak is the superior choice. It simply outlasts cedar with less intervention. Cedar offers a fantastic balance of beauty, natural resistance, and value, but it requires more periodic maintenance to approach the lifespan of teak. Your choice ultimately depends on your budget and willingness for upkeep: teak for maximum longevity with minimal effort, and cedar for great performance with more attentive care.