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What Is the Best Wood for an Exterior Door in Florida?
Mahogany is the all-round choice: stable, rot-resistant and good to carve. Spanish cedar is lighter and very stable, teak is the most weather-proof but hard to finish, and white oak is tough but needs stainless or bronze fixings.
St. Pete Custom Doors builds and installs hand-carved and custom wood doors in St. Petersburg, FL. Short answer: Mahogany is the all-round choice: stable, rot-resistant and good to carve. Spanish cedar is lighter and very stable, teak is the most weather-proof but hard to finish, and white oak is tough but needs stainless or bronze fixings.
The Main Exterior Hardwoods
- Mahogany (and sapele): stable, holds a crisp carved edge, takes finish well.
- Spanish cedar: light, very stable and rot-resistant; the wood of Tampa's cigar boxes.
- Teak: natural oils resist water and rot, but the same oils fight some finishes, and it is heavy and costly.
- White oak: tough and rot-resistant heartwood; tannins stain black against plain steel.
What Matters More Than the Species
How the wood is handled. Acclimated lumber, stile-and-rail construction rather than one wide slab, and a finish on all six sides decide whether a door lasts. See mahogany front doors.
FAQ
More on Door Woods
Is pine OK for a front door in Florida?
Not for an exposed exterior door; it moves and rots too readily in this climate.
What about walnut?
Beautiful indoors and under deep cover; less suited to full sun and rain.
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