Choosing between teak and cedar for your park bench is a classic dilemma for homeowners and landscape designers. Both are excellent woods, but they serve different needs. Let's break down the key differences to help you decide.
Teak, a tropical hardwood, is the ultimate champion of durability. Its high natural oil and rubber content make it incredibly resistant to rot, insects, and harsh weather. A teak bench can last for decades with minimal care, eventually aging to a distinguished silvery-gray patina. The trade-off? A significantly higher upfront cost and heavier weight.
Cedar, a softwood like Western Red Cedar, is a fantastic, more affordable option. It contains natural preservatives (thujaplicins) that deter decay and insects. Cedar is lighter, easier to work with, and has a beautiful, straight grain with a rich, reddish-brown hue that weathers to a soft gray. However, it is softer than teak and may show dents or scratches more easily. It typically requires more frequent sealing or staining to maintain its color and prolong its life.
So, which is best? For a truly "install and forget" bench that will outlast most others with unparalleled strength, teak is the premium investment. If you seek a beautiful, naturally resistant wood at a friendlier price and don't mind some periodic maintenance, cedar is the outstanding value choice. Your decision ultimately hinges on your budget, desired maintenance level, and the specific aesthetic you wish to create in your garden or park setting.