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Teak The traditional hardwood - perfect for demanding applications such as the decks of ocean going yachts - and for garden furniture!  Combining strength with a high proportion of natural oils, teak is ideal for creating the smoothest of finishes.  Hardwood Teak requires very little maintenance and can be left completely untreated.  The wood will mellow to an attractive silver/grey colour.  If you prefer to retain the rich golden brown you should apply an annual coating of teak oil.  A regular clean with warm soapy water will enhance the natural beauty of the timber.  Teak is a natural product, so some cracking and splitting is expected over time.  Teak benches are regularly specified for use in public parks.  Durability Guide:  25 years +. Iroko Is a popular low maintenance hardwood for use in the garden, with many of the characteristics of teak including durability and the ability to create a wonderful finish.  Hardwood. Iroko can be left completely untreated and the slightly yellow/brown of the new wood will turn silver/grey.  The beauty of iroko can be enhanced and turned to a golden brown colour with an annual coating of teak oil.  A regular clean with warm soapy water will enhance the natural beauty of the timber.  Iroko is a natural product, so some cracking and splitting is expected over time.  Iroko benches are regularly specified for use in public parks.  Durability Guide :  20 years +. Mahogany Is a good quality hardwood that has all the natural attributes to create highly attractive and durable garden furniture.  Hardwood. Can be left completely untreated so that the wood mellows to a silver grey colour.  The deep red/brown of the original wood can be retained by using oil or other timber treatment.  A regular clean with warm water will enhance the natural beauty of the timber.  Mahogany is a natural product, so some cracking and splitting is expected over time.  Durability Guide:  12 years +. Keruing Is a popular hardwood for use in the garden, providing a less expensive alternative to teak and iroko. Hardwood. Up to 25% more dense than teak. Will age more quickly than teak or iroko. Should be treated twice a year with teak oil to enhance the natural colour of the timber. A regular clean with warm water will enhance the natural beauty of the timber. Keruing is a natural product, and it may sweat resin.  Cracking and splitting is expected over time. Durability Guide:  7 years +. Pine The ideal softwood for creating garden furniture it is both strong and practical.  Softwood. The natural colour of pine is very light, but it can be treated with various timber care products to change the colour or extend life.  A regular clean with warm water will enhance the natural beauty of the timber.  Pine is a natural product, so some cracking and splitting is expected over time.  Durability Guide:  5 years +.