Cedar wood is a highly valued softwood known for its impressive durability, natural resistance to decay, and distinct, aromatic scent. This versatile material is sourced from various types of cedar trees, with the most commonly harvested species in North America being Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) and Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata). These trees are native to the United States and thrive in both coastal and inland climates.
What is Cedar wood?
Cedar wood refers to the lumber harvested from various coniferous trees in the Cedrus and Thuja genera. The most popular types include Western Red Cedar, Eastern Red Cedar, and Northern White Cedar. Each variety brings unique characteristics, but all are renowned for their aromatic oils and natural preservation properties.
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Where does cedar wood come from?
Cedar wood comes from several species of cedar trees found across different regions of the world, with the most commonly used varieties originating in North America. Eastern red cedar and Western red cedar are the most recognized types in the United States. Eastern red cedar is dense and durable, making it ideal for furniture and long-lasting structures, while Western red cedar is lighter and easier to work with, commonly used for siding, decking, and outdoor projects. White cedar, primarily found on the East Coast, is softer and lighter in color, often chosen for its natural rot resistance without adding much weight.
Other notable varieties include yellow cedar from Alaska, known for its exceptional durability but facing population decline due to overharvesting, and Spanish cedar from Central and South America, valued for its pleasant aroma and insect resistance, commonly used in humidors and fine cabinetry. However, Spanish cedar is now considered a vulnerable species, raising sustainability concerns. For environmentally responsible choices, builders and woodworkers are encouraged to opt for domestically sourced cedars like Eastern or Western red cedar rather than imported species, which have higher ecological and transportation impacts.
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Types of cedar wood
There are several species of cedar used in woodworking, each with slightly different appearances and properties:
- Eastern Red Cedar: Known for its aromatic cedar scent and fine-grained texture. Commonly used for chests and closets.
- Western Red Cedar: A lightweight, straight-grained wood often used for cedar wood siding, decking, and outdoor furniture.
- Northern White Cedar: Offers high decay resistance and is ideal for fencing and posts.
Each type of cedar wood offers unique benefits, making it essential to choose based on the specific application.
Is cedar a hardwood or softwood?
Cedar is technically a softwood, not a hardwood.
This classification is based on the type of tree it comes from, coniferous trees (which usually have needles and cones), rather than deciduous trees (which lose their leaves seasonally). Despite being a softwood, cedar is well-known for its durability, natural resistance to decay and insects, and relatively high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for many outdoor and indoor uses.
What color is cedar wood and how it changes over time
Cedar wood is renowned for its beautiful natural color, often starting as a pinkish-red with hints of purple. Depending on the species, such as Western Red Cedar or Eastern Red Cedar, the color can range from light reddish-brown to a deeper, more vibrant hue. Over time, cedar undergoes a noticeable transformation: exposure to oxygen and ultraviolet (UV) rays causes it to lose its warm tones and shift toward a silvery-gray patina. This change is common in exterior applications like cedar siding, decking, or fencing, where the weathering effect is more visible.
This aging process doesn’t compromise cedar’s structural integrity. In fact, many homeowners and designers embrace the weathered silver-gray look, especially for rustic or coastal aesthetics. However, if you want to preserve the original reddish hue of cedar wood, you’ll need to apply a UV-blocking finish or sealant regularly. This will help maintain its vibrant appearance and slow down the graying process.
How durable is cedar wood?
Cedar wood is known for its natural durability, but in terms of hardness, it ranks relatively low compared to other hardwoods. Its lightness and softness are actually part of what made cedar historically valuable for crafting canoes, boats, and exterior applications where flexibility and weather resistance mattered more than sheer strength.
The Janka hardness test, which measures a wood's resistance to denting and wear, provides insight into cedar's density:
- Eastern White Cedar: 320 Janka
- Western Red Cedar: 350 Janka
- Yellow Cedar: 580 Janka
- Spanish Cedar: 600 Janka
- Eastern Red Cedar: 900 Janka
Among these, Eastern Red Cedar is the hardest, yet even it falls well below popular hardwoods like oak (1290 Janka) or maple (1450 Janka). This means cedar isn’t the best choice for high-traffic flooring or load-bearing construction but excels in other ways.
Despite its softness, cedar wood is remarkably durable in outdoor conditions. Its natural oils make it resistant to rot, decay, and insect attacks, which is why it’s frequently used in decking, fencing, shingles, and outdoor furniture. It also holds up well in humid environments, making it suitable for saunas, closets, and siding.
If properly maintained, cedar can last for decades, especially in applications where it’s elevated off the ground and protected from prolonged moisture exposure. Applying a finish can further enhance its resistance to weathering and prolong its lifespan.
What is cedar wood used for?
Cedar wood is a versatile material used in a variety of applications both indoors and outdoors. Its natural resistance to rot, insects, and moisture makes it an ideal choice for outdoor structures like decks, fences, siding, and roofing. Additionally, its appealing appearance and distinct aroma make it popular for indoor furniture, such as chests, tables, and closet linings, where it provides both aesthetic value and protection against pests. Whether used for practical or decorative purposes, cedar wood combines durability with beauty, making it a top choice for many home improvement projects.
Characteristics of Cedar wood
Cedar wood is known for its unique blend of practical and aesthetic qualities, making it a highly sought-after material in both construction and interior design. Below are the most notable characteristics of cedar wood:
Durability
Cedar is naturally durable and resistant to moisture, rot, and decay. Its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions makes it ideal for outdoor applications such as decking, fencing, and siding.
Natural insect resistance
One of cedar’s standout features is its natural insect-repelling properties. The wood contains aromatic oils that deter pests like termites, moths, and carpenter ants, making it a smart choice for closets, chests, and outdoor structures.
Lightweight and easy to work with
Cedar is relatively light and soft compared to hardwoods, making it easy to saw, shape, and nail. This workability is especially appreciated by DIYers and professional builders alike.
Distinctive aroma
Cedar gives off a pleasant, natural scent, particularly Eastern Red Cedar, which is not only enjoyable but also contributes to its insect-repellent quality.
Attractive appearance
With rich colors ranging from pale amber to deep reddish-brown and a straight, fine grain, cedar offers a natural beauty that enhances both indoor and outdoor spaces. Over time, untreated cedar can weather into a silvery-gray patina, which many find aesthetically pleasing.
Dimensional stability
Cedar has a low shrinkage rate and maintains its shape well, even in changing humidity. This makes it less likely to warp or crack over time.
Sustainability
Often sourced from responsibly managed forests, cedar is a renewable resource. Its longevity also means less frequent replacement, reducing environmental impact.
What are the disadvantages of Cedar wood?
Even though cedar wood is a fantastic choice for many home improvement projects, it's not perfect. Here are a few things to consider before deciding if it’s right for you:
Needs regular maintenance
Cedar does a great job resisting rot, but it’s not invincible. If it's left exposed to moisture without proper care, it can start to break down over time. To keep it looking good and lasting long, you’ll need to seal and maintain it regularly, especially in humid or rainy climates.
Insects can still be a problem
Cedar naturally repels many insects, but it’s not completely immune. Pests like carpenter ants or termites can still cause damage if the wood is untreated or gets damaged. Keeping an eye out for any signs of infestation and taking action fast can help prevent bigger problems.
More prone to scratching
Cedar is a softwood, which means it’s more susceptible to dents and scratches compared to hardwoods. If you’re using it for high-traffic areas or furniture, be prepared for some wear and tear. It’s not the best option if you want something that’ll stay pristine with minimal upkeep.
Not ideal for heavy structural use
Cedar is durable, but it’s not the strongest wood around. If you’re building something that needs to carry a lot of weight or needs extra support, you might want to look into a hardwood instead. Cedar shines more in decorative uses and outdoor projects.
Fades over time
Cedar’s beautiful color can fade to a silvery-gray as it’s exposed to the elements. Some people love this weathered look, but if you want to preserve its original color, you’ll need to apply a finish or sealant every now and then.
FAQs About Cedar Wood
What is the lifespan of cedar wood outdoors?
With proper maintenance, cedar can last 20–30 years outdoors without rotting. Sealing or staining can extend this even further.
Does cedar wood need to be sealed?
While cedar is naturally weather-resistant, sealing it will help preserve its color and structural integrity, especially in harsh climates.
Why does cedar wood smell so strong?
Cedar contains natural oils (thujaplicins and cedrol) that give it its distinctive aroma, which also acts as a natural insect repellent.
Is cedar wood good for siding?
Yes, cedar wood siding is popular due to its insulation properties, weather resistance, and attractive grain. It also weathers well over time.
Can cedar wood be painted or stained?
Absolutely. While many prefer the natural look, cedar wood planks can be stained to enhance their tone or painted for a more finished appearance.
Is Cedar wood expensive?
Cedar can be more expensive than other types of wood, especially if you’re after high-quality or sustainably sourced options. Plus, if you don’t live in an area where cedar is readily available, you may face higher costs and shipping fees to get your hands on it.
Is Cedar wood waterproof?
Cedar wood is not completely waterproof, but it is naturally water-resistant due to the oils and chemicals it contains. These oils help prevent moisture absorption and protect the wood from decay and rot, which makes it a good choice for outdoor applications like decking, siding, and furniture.
However, cedar can still absorb water over time if it’s not properly maintained or sealed, especially when exposed to consistent moisture. To ensure that cedar stays resistant to water and lasts longer, it's a good idea to apply a waterproof sealant or finish, especially for projects that will be exposed to heavy rain or humidity.
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Can you buy cedar in sheets?
Yes, cedar can be purchased in sheets, particularly in the form of cedar plywood. Cedar plywood is made by layering thin sheets of cedar veneer, which are bonded together to form a sturdy, flexible material. This is commonly used in applications like cabinetry, furniture, and paneling.
Cedar is also available in boards or planks, often used for decking, siding, and fencing. While sheets of cedar plywood are available, you can also find cedar in other forms depending on the specific needs of your project.
In conclusion
Cedar wood is a top choice for a variety of projects thanks to its durability, natural resistance to pests, and timeless beauty. Whether you're enhancing your outdoor spaces with decks and fences or adding warmth to your interiors with furniture and closet linings, cedar wood provides both practicality and aesthetic appeal. Its long-lasting performance and attractive appearance make it an excellent investment for any home improvement project. Choose cedar wood for a versatile and durable solution that will stand the test of time.
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