How does teak’s resistance to thermal degradation compare to cedar?

Teak and cedar are both popular choices for outdoor applications due to their natural durability. However, when it comes to resistance to thermal degradation, teak outperforms cedar significantly. Teak contains high levels of natural oils and rubber, which make it highly resistant to heat, moisture, and warping. This allows teak to maintain its structural integrity even under prolonged exposure to sunlight and high temperatures.

Cedar, while also durable, has lower natural oil content and is more prone to drying out and cracking under extreme heat. Its thermal resistance is moderate, making it suitable for milder climates but less ideal for high-temperature environments.

In summary, teak’s superior thermal resistance makes it the better choice for projects requiring long-term durability in harsh conditions, while cedar is better suited for less extreme climates where moderate resistance is sufficient.