Which wood for outside?

September 05 2023 , 12 min reading time

#VALUE!

When planning an outdoor project — whether a deck, pergola, garden furniture or fencing — one of the most important decisions is choosing the right type of wood. Not all wood reacts the same way to rain, sun, frost and moisture. Choose the wrong type and you will quickly encounter rot, mould or warping. In this article we cover which wood types are best suited for outdoor use, what the differences are between hardwood and softwood, how to treat and maintain wood properly, and which eco-friendly alternatives are available. This way you can make a well-informed choice that lasts for years.

What makes wood suitable for outdoor use?

Not every type of wood responds the same way to outdoor conditions. The key factors that determine whether a wood type is suitable for outdoor use are its natural resistance to moisture, insects and mould, the density of its structure, and the degree to which it expands or contracts with temperature changes. Hardwood generally performs better on all these points than softwood — but with the right treatment, softwood can also perform well in outdoor environments.

Hardwood vs softwood: the key distinction

The distinction between hardwood and softwood is not only about hardness, but also about the origin of the wood. Hardwood comes from deciduous trees and has a denser structure. Softwood comes from coniferous trees and is generally lighter and less expensive. For outdoor use, the general rule applies: the denser the wood structure, the better the resistance to moisture and wear.

Advantages and disadvantages of hardwood and softwood for outdoor use

Hardwood

• Advantages: High natural durability, resistant to moisture and insects, long lifespan, low maintenance requirements.
• Disadvantages: Higher purchase price, heavier, more demanding to work with.

Softwood

• Advantages: Less expensive, lighter, easier to work with, widely available.
• Disadvantages: Lower natural resistance, requires regular treatment and maintenance, shorter lifespan without protection.

The best wood types for outdoor use

Teak

Teak is one of the most highly regarded wood types for outdoor use. It contains natural oils that protect it against moisture, insects and mould. Teak is exceptionally well-suited for decking, garden furniture and marine applications, and has a very long lifespan with minimal maintenance.

• Resistant to: moisture, insects and mould
• Applications: decking, garden furniture, deck boards
• Maintenance: minimal — occasional oiling is sufficient
• Price: high
• Lifespan: very long (decades)

Oak

Oak is a strong and durable wood type that is naturally resistant to moisture and insects. It is widely used for pergolas, gates and garden furniture. Untreated oak weathers over time to an attractive silver-grey patina, which many consider a desirable characteristic.

• Resistant to: moisture and insects
• Applications: pergolas, gates, garden furniture, deck boards
• Maintenance: regular oiling or staining recommended
• Price: medium to high
• Lifespan: long

Accoya

Accoya is modified wood — radiata pine that has been chemically treated through a process called acetylation. This makes it exceptionally stable, resistant to rot and insects, and gives it a lifespan comparable to the best hardwood types. Accoya is a popular choice for those who want the properties of hardwood with a lower environmental impact.

• Resistant to: moisture, rot and insects
• Applications: decking, cladding, window frames, deck boards
• Maintenance: low
• Price: medium to high
• Lifespan: very long

Pine (pressure-treated)

Pine is a softwood type with naturally lower resistance to moisture and insects. However, pressure-treated pine — where protective agents are driven into the wood under pressure — is a reliable and affordable choice for outdoor use. It is widely used for fencing, decking and garden structures.

• Resistant to: insects and mould (after treatment)
• Applications: fencing, decking, garden structures
• Maintenance: regular — annual treatment recommended
• Price: low to medium
• Lifespan: medium (with regular maintenance)

Douglas Fir

Douglas fir is a coniferous wood type with a relatively high natural durability for a softwood. It is more robust than pine and has an attractive grain. Douglas fir is widely used for decking, boardwalks and garden sheds, and requires less maintenance than standard pine.

• Resistant to: moisture (moderately, by nature)
• Applications: decking, boardwalks, garden sheds, cladding
• Maintenance: medium — periodic treatment recommended
• Price: low to medium
• Lifespan: medium to long

Comparison table: wood types for outdoor use

Treatment and maintenance of outdoor wood

Treatment

The right treatment significantly extends the lifespan of outdoor wood. The most common treatment methods are:

• Oiling: Penetrates the wood and protects from within. Preserves the natural colour and prevents drying out. Ideal for hardwood types such as teak and oak.
• Staining: Forms a protective layer on the wood surface. Protects against UV radiation, moisture and mould. Suitable for both hard and softwood.
• Pressure treatment: Protective agents are driven into the wood under pressure. Provides deep protection, particularly for softwood types such as pine.
• Painting or varnishing: Provides an impenetrable protective layer. Requires periodic renewal when the layer is damaged or begins to peel.

Maintenance

• Regular cleaning: Remove dirt, moss and algae to prevent mould growth. An annual clean is sufficient for most wood types.
• Annual inspection: Check for cracks, wear or damaged treatment layers. Early intervention prevents larger problems.
• Periodic re-treatment: Depending on the wood type and treatment method, it is recommended to re-oil, re-stain or repaint the wood every 1 to 3 years.

Eco-friendly wood options for outdoor use

FSC-certified wood

FSC-certified wood comes from sustainably managed forests where more trees are planted than are felled. By choosing FSC wood you support responsible forest management and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity. The certification is recognisable by the FSC label on the product or packaging.

Recycled wood

Recycled wood comes from demolished buildings, old furniture or other wood structures. Its use reduces the demand for new wood and limits waste. Recycled wood often already has a weathered, characterful appearance that makes it particularly suitable for rustic or natural outdoor projects.

Thermally modified wood

In thermal modification, wood is treated with high temperatures without chemicals. This makes it more stable, more moisture-resistant and less susceptible to rot — without using environmentally harmful substances. It is a sustainable choice that is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to tropical hardwood.

Buying guide: which wood suits your outdoor project?

• Decking or boardwalk: Choose teak, oak, Accoya or Douglas fir. These wood types withstand intensive use and changing weather conditions.
• Garden furniture: Teak and oak are the best choice for durable garden furniture that stays beautiful for years.
• Pergola or canopy: Oak or Douglas fir are excellent choices due to their strength and resistance.
• Fencing or screening: Pressure-treated pine is an affordable and reliable choice for fencing.
• Limited budget: Choose treated pine or Douglas fir — affordable and usable for years with proper maintenance.
• Sustainability important: Choose FSC-certified wood, Accoya or recycled wood.

Frequently asked questions about outdoor wood

Which wood is the most durable for outdoor use?

Teak and Accoya are the most durable choices for outdoor use. Both wood types have excellent resistance to moisture, rot and insects and last for decades with proper maintenance.

Do I always need to treat hardwood before using it outdoors?

Hardwood types such as teak have sufficient natural protection and can be left untreated outdoors. They will however weather to a silver-grey patina over time. If you wish to preserve the original colour, periodic oiling is recommended.

How long does pressure-treated pine last outdoors?

Pressure-treated pine lasts an average of 15 to 25 years with regular maintenance. Without maintenance, the lifespan decreases significantly due to moisture penetration and mould formation.

What is the difference between oiling and staining outdoor wood?

Oil penetrates deep into the wood and protects from within, while stain forms a protective layer on the surface. Oil better preserves the natural appearance; stain offers more protection against UV and moisture and is available in various colours.

Is recycled wood suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, provided the original wood was of good quality and has been stored correctly. Recycled hardwood is excellent for outdoor projects and often already has a proven resistance from its previous use in outdoor conditions.

Which wood suits your outdoor project?

When is hardwood the best choice?

• You are looking for a durable solution with minimal maintenance
• The project needs to last for decades
• Aesthetics and appearance play an important role

When is softwood sufficient?

• The budget is limited
• You are prepared to carry out regular maintenance
• The project is temporary or subject to lighter use

Common mistakes

• Using untreated softwood outdoors without protection
• Choosing the wrong treatment for the wood type
• Delaying maintenance until damage has accumulated
• Not taking the specific application into account when selecting the wood type

Choosing the right wood depends on your project, budget and maintenance preferences. There is no universally best choice — only the best choice for your specific situation.

Why Doika?

Doika specialises in high-quality outdoor products and has extensive experience with the materials that face the greatest demands outdoors. We know which wood types perform well under changing weather conditions and are happy to help you make a choice that suits your project, use and budget. Our products are carefully selected for durability and quality. If you have questions about materials, maintenance or installation, our customer service team is on hand to help — both before and after your purchase. Returns are straightforward.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wood for outdoor use depends on your application, budget and maintenance preferences. Teak and Accoya offer the longest lifespan with minimal maintenance; treated pine or Douglas fir are affordable alternatives. Where possible, choose FSC-certified or recycled wood for the lowest environmental impact. With the right choice and regular maintenance, outdoor wood will last for many years.

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