What Is Western Red Cedar?
Western Red Cedar is a significant coniferous tree native to North America’s western coast, known for reaching heights of up to 200 feet (60 meters). It is prized for its striking reddish color and distinctive grain pattern.
Uses of Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar is extensively used in building construction, decoration, and furniture making, thanks to its preservative resistance. It finds applications in decking, exterior walls, roofs, stairs, fixtures, columns, outdoor furniture, and interior decorative lumber.
Characteristics of Western Red Cedar
This wood species is celebrated for its exceptional durability, natural preservative qualities, resistance to decay, and insect damage, making it ideal for outdoor construction and exterior applications. Its oil content further enhances its resistance to moisture and dryness.
Advantages
Western Red Cedar is durable, lightweight, and easy to work with. Its beauty, characterized by a deep-reddish hue and unique grain, makes it a popular choice for enhancing the design of buildings and spaces.
Disadvantages
Despite its advantages, Western Red Cedar is a rare and expensive wood, with costs influenced by factors like foreign exchange risks and shipping. Its rough surface texture requires careful handling to avoid damage such as scratches, deformation, or cracking.
How to Select Western Red Cedar
When selecting Western Red Cedar, it’s crucial to consider the individual variations in color, grain, and knots, along with potential defects that may affect its processing and installation. The choice between knotty and knotless materials depends on budget and preference, as they differ in texture and price.