The Cedar Log Visa-Tete is built from 100% Northern White Cedar — the naturally rot and insect resistant wood that has been the standard for outdoor log furniture in Michigan's Great Lakes region for over a century. The S-curve vis-a-vis configuration seats two people facing each other, creating a defined conversation setting without requiring any additional arrangement. Contoured seat slats on both sides, mortise and tenon joinery at the structural connections, and galvanized exterior hardware throughout. The same construction Lakeland Mills has used in Edmore, Michigan since 1923.
The material holds up differently than what most outdoor furniture in this configuration is made from. Most vis-a-vis pieces use Chinese fir — a wood that isn't rot-resistant and breaks down in outdoor conditions in 1 to 3 years. Northern White Cedar lasts 10 to 20 years under normal outdoor use. It holds fasteners tightly over the full life of the piece. A premium outdoor seating piece built from the wrong material isn't a premium piece — it's an expensive short-term purchase. Northern White Cedar is what turns a good-looking piece into a lasting one.
Ships partially assembled from Edmore, Michigan with all hardware and step-by-step instructions. Left untreated, Northern White Cedar weathers gradually to a silver-grey tone. Apply a penetrating oil or water-based deck sealer to maintain the natural pale cream color. Cedar accepts stain or paint cleanly — use any outdoor-rated surface treatment. Coordinates across the Contoured Comfort collection with rocking chairs, lounge chairs, and end tables.
About Cedar Log Construction
Every Cedar Log Contoured Comfort piece is built from actual Northern White Cedar logs — not cedar veneer, not cedar-look composite, not finger-jointed lumber with a cedar-toned stain. The logs are hand-selected, shaped, and joined using mortise and tenon construction at the structural connection points. Galvanized exterior hardware resists rust and corrosion without requiring replacement. This is the same construction method Lakeland Mills has used in Edmore, Michigan since 1923 — straightforward, durable, and designed to last outdoors without requiring a covered storage space every winter.
A Note on Log Checking
Natural wood checks — small surface cracks that appear as the wood dries and expands with changes in humidity and temperature. In Northern White Cedar, checking is a normal characteristic of genuine log construction and does not affect structural integrity. Checks are surface-level and do not indicate a defect. If you'd like to read more about log checking before purchasing, the following articles explain what to expect:
Dimensions & Style
Approximately 48" W × 48" D × 37" H. S-curve configuration seats two people facing each other. Natural cream Northern White Cedar color at time of delivery. Leave untreated to weather gradually to silver-grey, or apply a penetrating oil, stain, or paint using any outdoor-rated product. Coordinates with rocking chairs, lounge chairs, and end tables across the Contoured Comfort collection.
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 in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers structural failures and defects present at time of manufacture. It does not cover normal weathering, surface checking, or damage from misuse, modification, or exposure to conditions beyond normal outdoor use. To make a warranty claim or ask a warranty question, contact Lakeland Mills at 989-427-5133.
