The official word on Western Red Cedar timber
Western Red Cedar timber is a rich, red-brown heartwood. It’s pinky is colour when fresh sawn and pales as it dries, but an exterior finish will maintain colouring once its surface is dry. Although Western Red Cedar timber is difficult to treat due to Tannin content it is naturally durable, weathers well and silvers down over time.
What is Western Red Cedar?
Western Red Cedar timber is derived from cedar trees, known for their aromatic wood and naturally beautiful appearance. This type of wood is popular for its durability and distinct qualities that set it apart from other woods. Cedar trees belong to the cypress family and are primarily found in North America. The wood is highly prized for its remarkable characteristics.
The timber is Popular with architects and designers, is not a heavy duty timber but is great for garden structures, furniture, fencing, decking and gates.
The Beauty of Western Red Cedar Timber
Cedar timber is celebrated for its natural beauty. It possesses a stunning combination of hues, from light shades of cream to deep, rich reds. The grain patterns in cedar wood are visually striking, making it a top choice for those who appreciate the aesthetics of woodwork. Whether you’re crafting fine furniture, panelling, or even outdoor structures, cedar timber can enhance the visual appeal of your project.
Durability and Resistance
One of the most noteworthy attributes of Western Red Cedar timber is its remarkable durability. Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, insects, and moisture, which is a significant advantage for outdoor projects. The natural oils and compounds within cedar timber make it highly resistant to rot, decay, and fungal growth, allowing it to withstand the test of time. This resistance to decay is particularly beneficial for outdoor applications like decks, siding, and fences.
Aromatic and Insect-Repelling
Cedar is well-known for its distinctive and pleasant aroma. This scent is due to the presence of natural oils and compounds, which not only emit a delightful fragrance but also serve as a natural insect repellent. This unique feature makes cedar wood an excellent choice for constructing closets, chests, and other storage solutions, as it helps protect clothing and other items from moths and other pests.
Applications of Western Red Cedar Timber
Cedar timber’s versatility makes it a popular choice in a wide array of applications. Let’s explore some of the most common uses for this exceptional wood.
1. Outdoor Construction
Cedar timber is a preferred material for outdoor construction projects such as decks, pergolas, and fences. Its natural resistance to decay and insects ensures that these structures will remain in excellent condition for years to come.
2. Cladding and Shingles
Wester Red Cedar timber has also become almost synonymous with timber cladding, a massively popular choice for cedar cladding of garden buildings and even more permanent structures. Beautiful when first cut and used to clad a building, but gaining a wonderful silvery hue as the cedar wood weathers.
It is similarly popular for roofing shingles and can make a distinctive roof.
Fresh sawn Western Red Cedar cladding showing fine sawn surface texture
Fresh sawn featheredge weathered Western Red Cedar Cladding
3. Indoor Furnishings
When it comes to crafting indoor furnishings like cabinets, chests, and paneling, cedar timber’s aromatic properties and captivating grain patterns make it an ideal choice. Its natural beauty enhances the elegance of any interior space.
4. Gardening and Landscaping
Cedar wood is also commonly used in gardening and landscaping projects. Raised garden beds, trellises, and planter boxes made from cedar timber are not only functional but also enhance the overall look of your garden.
5. Saunas and Hot Tubs
Cedar’s natural resistance to moisture and rot makes it a superb choice for saunas and hot tubs. Its warm and inviting aroma adds to the relaxation experience, making it a preferred wood for such applications.
Conclusion
If you’re considering a project that requires wood, we highly recommend exploring the possibilities of cedar . Its unique qualities and stunning aesthetics are sure to elevate your project to new heights. View our Western Red Cedar stock here.
