Choice of timber
When choosing a wooden bench for your garden, it is important to consider the type of wood you prefer. A well maintained bench can last for years and at Witham Timber, we supply garden benches in both hardwood and pressure treated softwood.
Softwood garden benches
Made from fast-growing coniferous spruce and pine trees, our softwood garden benches have a chunky aesthetic and a natural appearance ideal for a rustic or country garden. Pressure treated for protection against moisture damage and insect infestation, softwood garden furniture has a pale yellow or light brown colour from the pressure treatment process. Our sturdy softwood garden benches are available as a 2-seater bench and a 3-seater bench.
Hardwood garden benches
Unlike softwood, hardwood varieties are derived from deciduous trees such as oak and beech and the majority of hardwoods have a deep rich brown/reddish-brown colour. Strong and durable, hardwood has a naturally high oil content which makes it moisture and water resistant and not prone to insect damage. The classic Willington bench is crafted from quality hardwood, responsibly grown and sourced from sustainable forests.
Ongoing maintenance
A major part of owning wooden garden furniture is the ongoing maintenance required to keep it in tip top condition. While this may put people off, some benches will require more maintenance than others, which could influence your final choice.
Maintaining softwood garden furniture – pressure treated softwood benches require no additional treatment in the first three months to allow the pressure treatment chemicals time to dry out but thereafter, annual maintenance and care should be carried out. Once cleaned, your softwood bench will benefit from being oiled to replenish lost moisture followed by an application of varnish or wood stain and protector. While this may seem an inconvenience, annual treatment will reward you with a bench that will last for years to come.
Care of hardwood garden furniture – incredibly low maintenance, hardwood garden furniture needs only to be cleaned thoroughly as required. A coat of wood preserver can be applied if you prefer but generally hardwood can be left untreated to mature naturally.
What space do you have and how will the bench be used?
Once you have chosen a spot for your bench, measure it carefully! All our wooden benches are offered in a choice of 2- or 3-seater options and individual item descriptions include detailed measurements, to ensure the bench will fit perfectly into your available space. Remember too that garden furniture tends to be generously proportioned so don’t assume that your chosen piece will fit.
Having considered all of the above, if you decide that a bench is not for you, for example if you find that your garden won’t accommodate a bench, or if there will only be yourself and partner using it, consider a companion set or a pair of individual chairs. Our complete range of garden furniture includes these and bench sets for the larger spaces.
Our blog has a really useful section on furniture, full of handy information and guides, but for all other furniture enquiries, our dedicated sales team can be contacted by phone on 01205 359188, or email at sales@withamtimber.co.uk