Why You Should Choose Western Red Cedar?

Western Red Cedar is a great choice for your next project because it’s solid and lasts a long time. It doesn’t easily rot, decay, or get damaged by insects. This means whatever you build with it will stay in good condition for a long time and won’t need much maintenance. in this article, we will discuss why you should choose western red cedar for your next project.

A Glimpse into History

The history of Western Red Cedar traces back through millennia, intertwined with the indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest. Native American tribes revered this majestic tree for its multifaceted utility, using wood to construct homes, craft canoes, and fashion intricate totem poles. This cultural reverence for Western Red Cedar persists to this day, as it continues to be a cornerstone of Pacific Northwest heritage and identity.

Here Are More Reasons Why You Should Pick Western Red Cedar for Your Next Project

Botanical Marvels

Western Red Cedar stands distinguished among its arboreal counterparts, boasting a unique array of botanical characteristics. As a coniferous species, it belongs to the Cupressaceae family and thrives in the temperate rainforests of North America. Towering to impressive heights of up to 60 meters, this evergreen giant commands attention with its sweeping branches and feathery foliage.

Aesthetics and Durability

Renowned for its natural beauty and durability, Western Red Cedar holds a coveted status in the realm of woodworking and construction. Its rich, reddish-brown hue exudes warmth and elegance, making it a preferred choice for exterior siding, decking, and fencing. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it possesses inherent rot resistance and dimensional stability, ensuring longevity and low maintenance in various applications.

Environmental Sustainability

In today’s world where environmental concerns are on the rise, Western Red Cedar stands out as a symbol of sustainability in the forestry sector. This species boasts a low carbon footprint and is biodegradable, making it a perfect fit for eco-friendly building practices. Furthermore, forests play a crucial role in providing habitats for various plant and animal species, thereby supporting biodiversity and overall ecosystem health.

Versatile Applications

The versatility of Western Red Cedar extends far beyond its traditional use in construction and woodworking. From artisanal furniture to decorative shingles, this resilient wood lends itself to a myriad of creative endeavors. Moreover, its natural resistance to decay and insect infestation makes it an ideal choice for outdoor furniture, pergolas, and arbors, blending functionality with enduring beauty.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Western Red Cedar is known for its exceptional durability, but it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and aesthetic appeal. Regular cleaning and sealing can help protect it from weathering and UV damage, and keep it looking great for years to come. It’s also a good idea to periodically inspect Cedar installations for signs of moisture accumulation or pest infestation so that any potential issues can be addressed early on and the lifespan of the Cedar can be extended.

Western Red Cedar Fencing & PAR

Western Red Cedar 18 x 38mm P.A.R. Fencing

Key Features

• Fashionable, beautiful timber
• Naturally very long-lasting
• Easy to work with
• Stainless steel fixings must be used
• We recommend ‘OSMO 420 oil’ to maintain colour & enhance the beauty

Western Red Cedar 45x45mm L Section

Key Features

• Fashionable, beautiful timber
• Naturally very long-lasting
• Easy to work with
• Stainless steel fixings must be used
• We recommend ‘OSMO 420 oil’ to maintain colour & enhance beauty 
• Overlap external corner profile 
• Full range of lengths in stock see the ‘Board Length’ tab below

Western Red Cedar 20 x 145mm P.A.R.

Key Features

• Fashionable, beautiful timber
• Naturally very long-lasting
• Easy to work with
• Stainless steel fixings must be used
• We recommend ‘OSMO 420 UV protection oil’ to maintain colour & enhance the beauty

FAQs

What makes Western Red Cedar unique among other types of wood?

Western Red Cedar stands out for its distinctive reddish-brown hue, captivating aroma, and exceptional durability. Its natural resistance to decay and insect infestation sets it apart as a preferred choice for various applications.

How does Western Red Cedar contribute to environmental sustainability?

Western Red Cedar forests are crucial for environmental sustainability as they help to sequester carbon dioxide and provide habitats for diverse flora and fauna. Moreover, Cedar is a sustainable choice for construction projects as it is biodegradable and aligns with eco-conscious building practices.

What are some common applications of Western Red Cedar?

Western Red Cedar is a versatile material that finds its applications in various fields such as construction, woodworking, and artistic endeavors. It is highly preferred for making exterior siding, decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture as it is known for its durability and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, artisans often use Cedar for crafting furniture, decorative shingles, and architectural details.

How can I maintain and care for Western Red Cedar installations?

To maintain the beauty and durability of Western Red Cedar, it is important to conduct proper upkeep. Regular cleaning and sealing can protect against UV damage and weathering. Conducting routine inspections for moisture buildup or pest infestation can prevent potential problems and ensure that Cedar structures remain resilient.

Is Western Red Cedar suitable for indoor applications?

While Western Red Cedar is primarily known for its outdoor applications, it can also be used indoors for paneling, trim work, and furniture. Its natural resistance to decay and insect damage makes it a viable option for interior design projects seeking a warm, rustic aesthetic.

What are the advantages of choosing Western Red Cedar over other types of wood?

Western Red Cedar offers several advantages, including its natural beauty, durability, and sustainability. Its unique combination of aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits makes it a preferred choice for architects, designers, and homeowners seeking timeless elegance and eco-friendly solutions.

Are there any drawbacks or considerations when using Western Red Cedar?

Western Red Cedar has several advantages, but it is essential to note that it is softer than hardwoods. This means that it can easily get scratches and dents in high-traffic areas if not maintained properly. Despite the initial high cost of using Cedar compared to other materials, its long-term durability often makes the investment worthwhile.

Where can I purchase Western Red Cedar products?

One can purchase Western Red Cedar products from lumber yards, home improvement stores, and specialty wood suppliers. Moreover, a wide range of Cedar lumber, siding, decking, and other building materials are available on various online retailers like Southgate Timber for convenient purchase and delivery.