As far as year round performance in the outdoors is concerned, not all types of wood are the same. Of the numerous types of wood that is available, there are only some types that are sufficiently durable to withstand the harsh rays of the sun or drenching rains. For outdoor furniture to withstand the damage that nature offers, even in a somewhat balmy, mild climate, it has to be made from a type of wood that has some natural resistance to the infestation of insect and rot.

Wood resists rot in two very different ways. Physical barriers provide on form of resistance to rot. Some types of wood including black locust, and white oak have structures that are known as tyloses which fill the pores of the wood which prevents the creatures that cause decay from entering the wood to begin with. Chemical compounds provide the first solution to resisting rot. There are some types of wood including cedar, cypress, and redwood that contains these chemical compounds that will resist agents of decomposition such as bacteria and bugs therefore they try to find their meals someplace else.

Regardless if the is the result of a physical or chemical change there are some woods that will withstand all kinds of elements from one to the next.

Types of Woods

China fir has been traditionally used in China for all types of construction where an easy to work with and durability is needed. China Fir is an evergreen that grows fast. The surface of this wood is looks a lot like white cedar. It has a pale yellow surface with a straight and smooth grain that will turn grey in time. This wood will last a long time in either dry or wet conditions, requires very little maintenance, and has great value.

There are many types of locust of acacia trees that grow all over the world and are known for their outdoor durability for a long time. Fence posts that are made from locust will frequently remain long after the fence is gone. Locust wood is a somewhat dense and heavy wood that has a very interesting variable grain pattern. The wood can be left to weather into a dark grey or an oil finish can be applied which will bring out the character of the grain.

Native white oak has a cell structures that is unique that will repel rot, insects, and moisture. This wood repelled British cannon balls on Old Iron Side which was the famous American sailing ship that was made from native white oak. This wood has a straight grain and is dense. Furniture that is made from white oak which can be re oiled yearly or when finished with oil can be left to weather to a gray patina.

Eucalyptus is a renewable resource that is grown on plantations that is in great supply when harvested. This kiln dried and high quality wood has great durability and is very solid with a beautiful grain, great strength, and a smooth finish that only needs minimal maintenance. Eucalyptus resists decay and rot than is very dense which has a high content of oil that will repel moisture and water. In addition, if it's left to weather it will to a soft gray if left untreated, but it will keep its rich tones if it's stained.

If you use a furniture cover it will help to keep the surface ready to use, smooth, and clean and extend the life of your outdoor furniture and be ready to use when the summertime rolls around. For metal or wood furniture that is painted a cover will provide for a fast cleanup and minimize yearly maintenance. All that you have to do is to remove the cover from your outdoor furniture in the springtime to reveal ready to use, beautiful, and clean furniture.