Should I Leave My Outdoor Cedar Log Furniture Unfinished or Finish it?

You've invested in beautiful, handcrafted outdoor cedar log furniture from Lakeland Mills – pieces designed to bring rustic charm and comfort to your patio, deck, or garden. Now comes a common question: should you leave it in its natural, unfinished state, or apply a protective finish? The decision depends on your aesthetic preferences and how you want your furniture to age and be maintained. Let's break down the pros and cons of both approaches to help you make the best choice for your durable outdoor cedar furniture.

Understanding Cedar's Natural Properties: Cedar wood, particularly the type used in quality log furniture, is naturally resilient. It contains natural oils and tannins that make it resistant to decay, insects, and moisture. This inherent durability is why cedar is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture that lasts. However, like all wood, it is affected by the elements.

Option 1: Leaving Your Cedar Log Furniture Unfinished

• Pros:

  • Natural Patina: Unfinished cedar will gradually weather to a beautiful, soft silvery-gray patina over time. Many people find this aged look highly desirable, enhancing the rustic appeal of the furniture.

  • Low Maintenance (Initially): There's no initial finishing work required, saving you time and effort right after purchase.

  • Authentic Rustic Feel: The raw, untouched wood truly embodies a natural, organic aesthetic.

  • Eco-Friendly: No chemicals from finishes are applied, keeping it entirely natural.

• Cons:

  • Staining: Unfinished wood is more susceptible to staining from spills, dirt, or mildew, which can be harder to clean.

  • Rougher Surface: The wood may feel slightly rougher to the touch over time without a protective layer.

Option 2: Finishing Your Outdoor Cedar Log Furniture

• Pros:

  • Preserves Original Color: A good quality clear sealant or stain will help maintain the wood's original golden or reddish-brown hue, preventing it from turning gray.

  • Enhanced Protection: A finish provides a protective barrier against UV rays, moisture, and general wear and tear, significantly extending the lifespan of your furniture.

  • Easier to Clean: Finished surfaces are smoother and less porous, making them easier to wipe clean from dirt and spills.

  • Smoother Feel: A finished surface offers a smoother, more refined feel.

• Cons:

  • Maintenance Required: Finishes need reapplication every 1-3 years, depending on the product and exposure to the elements. This involves cleaning, light sanding, and reapplying the finish. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to peeling or fading.

  • Initial Effort: The finishing process requires time and effort to apply properly.

  • Altered Look: While still rustic, the finished look might be less "raw" or "weathered" compared to unfinished cedar.

• Internal Link: For detailed instructions, refer to our guide on How to Finish Log Furniture.

Which Option is Right for You?

• Choose Unfinished if: You love the natural weathering process, prefer a truly "raw" aesthetic, are comfortable with surface checking, and prioritize minimal initial effort. You appreciate the low-maintenance aspect of not having to re-finish, even if it means occasional cleaning.

• Choose Finished if: You want to preserve the wood's original color, desire maximum protection against the elements, prefer a smoother surface, and are willing to commit to periodic reapplication of the finish to maintain its appearance and longevity.

Conclusion: Both unfinished and finished outdoor cedar log furniture can provide years of enjoyment. Your choice ultimately depends on your desired aesthetic and your commitment to maintenance. Regardless of your decision, Lakeland Mills' handcrafted outdoor furniture is built with quality and durability in mind, ensuring it remains a beloved addition to your outdoor living space for seasons to come.

Ready to select your perfect outdoor retreat? Explore Lakeland Mills' durable outdoor cedar furniture collection and choose the path that best suits your style and lifestyle.

Shop all Outdoor Furniture now!