Terry Burton is owner of AdirondackChairShop.com, an online retailer of New York State handcrafted Adirondack Furniture.
There are many styles of Adirondack chairs. And just as there are many styles there are many types of wood. When Adirondack chairs were first constructed at the turn of the century they were likely built from locally harvested northern white pine. While the wood was plentiful, it was not terrribly durable in an exposed environment. Still, due to the abundance of wood and the simplicity of the first chairs, they were likey built from pine for many years. 
Now, Adirondack furniture can be purchased in many wood types. Some of the most common are northern white cedar, red cedar, cherry, teak, oak, maple, and variety of asian woods. Pine is still a common wood used in the construction. Recently, polywood chairs have become increasingly popular due its maintenance-free factors.
Despite the great variety of wood types, northern pine and cedar continue to be the dominant woods used in the construction of Adirondack furniture. They are readily available, sustainable, economical and make a great product when maintained well.
When choosing between pine and cedar there are a few things to keep in mind. First, cedar chairs will tend to cost about twice what pine chairs run. Pine is a more accessible product and therefore the cost of the wood is cheaper than cedar. If the chairs will be left on a covered porch, indoors, or out of the elements, pine represents the best value. In these conditions pine will last a long time. You may well be passing the furniture down to your children.
The extra cost of cedar can be worth the price, however, when considering the longevity of the product for outdoor use. If left outdoors pine chairs will last about a decade when properly treated and cared for. Cedar chairs can last twice as long if not longer. The natural elements of cedar make it better adapted to withstanding sun, water and insect damage.
Either style of wood is durable. Both are soft woods with incredible structural integrity. The look is quite similar. In fact, both pine and cedar can look quite alike when initially harvested. They will both age and patina at a similar pace. They are both light. Both accept paint or stain equally well.
Regardless of which type of wood you select, be sure you are purchasing a US made chair. If a part breaks, which can occur with any exterior wood product, you want to make sure you can call the company directly and order a replacement. It can mean the difference between paying $7 for a new arm or $200 for a new chair. Pine or cedar...you're sure to enjoy your Adirondack furniture.
Visit http://www.adirondackchairshop.com for more info or call or email us for more information about selecting the right wood type for your specific needs.
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