The Cedar Log Rocking Chair is made from 100% Northern White Cedar — the naturally rot and insect resistant wood that has been the material standard for outdoor log furniture in Michigan's Great Lakes region for generations. The contoured seat slats are shaped to support actual extended sitting. The rocker rails move smoothly and cleanly, not with the stiff wobble of lighter chairs. Mortise and tenon joinery at the primary structural connections and galvanized exterior hardware throughout give this chair the kind of solid feel that distinguishes real log furniture from something assembled from hollow tubes and bracket hardware.
The reason the material matters: most wood outdoor rocking chairs sold today at similar price points are made from Chinese fir. It looks like wood and sells for similar money, but Chinese fir isn't rot-resistant and breaks down outdoors in 1 to 3 years. Northern White Cedar lasts 10 to 20 years under normal outdoor conditions — sometimes longer. That difference shows up in the joints: Northern White Cedar holds fasteners tightly over time. Chinese fir loosens as the wood deteriorates. A chair that lasts two seasons costs more over a decade than a chair that lasts ten.
Ships partially assembled from Edmore, Michigan with all hardware and step-by-step instructions. Left untreated, natural Northern White Cedar weathers to a silver-grey over time. Apply a penetrating oil or water-based deck sealer to maintain the original pale cream tone. Cedar also accepts stain or paint — use any outdoor-rated surface treatment. The Contoured Comfort collection pairs naturally across pieces: match with the Cedar Log Rocking Loveseat, Lounge Chair, ottomans, and end tables for a complete outdoor sitting area.
About Cedar Log Construction
Every piece in the Contoured Comfort collection is built from 100% Northern White Cedar — the naturally rot and insect resistant wood that has served as the material standard for outdoor furniture in Michigan's Great Lakes region for over a century. Logs are formed into solid furniture using mortise and tenon joinery at the primary structural connections, with galvanized exterior hardware throughout. The frame holds its shape outdoors through real seasons without annual treatment or refinishing. Left untreated, Northern White Cedar weathers to a silver-grey patina over time. It can also be sealed with a penetrating oil, stained, or painted — cedar accepts any outdoor-rated surface treatment.
A Note on Log Checking
Northern White Cedar continues to release moisture after it is cut and dried. As moisture leaves the wood, hairline surface cracks — called checks — can form along the grain. These are a normal characteristic of natural cedar and are not structural defects. Checking affects surface appearance only and has no bearing on the strength or durability of the piece. Lakeland Mills addresses log checking in detail in these resources:
Dimensions & Style
The Cedar Log Rocking Chair is sized for single-person outdoor use — porch, deck, lakefront, or cabin sitting area. Approximate dimensions: 25" W × 34" D × 37" H. Ships in natural cedar. The Contoured Comfort line coordinates naturally across pieces; pair with the Rocking Loveseat, Lounge Chair, ottomans, and small tables for a complete outdoor sitting area.
Shipping & Returns
Ships via UPS Ground. Most orders arrive within 1 to 3 business days of shipment. Free shipping on outdoor furniture over $149 within the contiguous 48 states. To check on a shipment or ask about your order, call 989-427-5133. Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery — contact us before returning to receive return instructions and a return authorization.
FAQ
- Do I need to seal or finish cedar log furniture? Cedar is naturally rot and insect resistant — no finish is required. You can leave it untreated and it will weather gradually to a silver-grey. If you prefer to maintain the original color, apply a penetrating oil or outdoor sealant every few years.
- What is log checking and is it normal? Log checking is the appearance of small surface cracks in the wood as it adjusts to changes in temperature and humidity. It is a natural characteristic of real log furniture, not a defect. It does not affect structural integrity.
- Can I leave cedar log furniture outside year-round? Yes. Northern White Cedar is designed for outdoor exposure. You can leave it out through all four seasons without treatment. If you experience very harsh winters, covering or storing pieces can extend the finish life, but it is not required for the wood itself.
- Does the furniture come assembled? Cedar Log Contoured Comfort furniture ships partially assembled with all hardware and detailed instructions included. Most pieces can be completed in under an hour.
Manufacturer
Lakeland Mills has been manufacturing cedar log furniture in Edmore, Michigan since 1923. All Cedar Log Contoured Comfort products are made in the USA from 100% Northern White Cedar. For product questions, custom requests, or finish options, call 989-427-5133.
1-Year Limited Warranty
Cedar Log Contoured Comfort products are covered by a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects. This warranty covers structural issues arising from normal use and does not cover damage from misuse, improper assembly, or natural weathering characteristics such as surface checking. For warranty service or questions, contact Lakeland Mills at 989-427-5133.
