Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a coarse texture; visible growth rings showing a flat-sawn cathedral pattern and some tight knotting.
Color Description
Reddish to pinkish brown heartwood with thin, yellowish-white sapwood; significant color variation between boards; tends to silver or grey with UV exposure if left unfinished.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack due to high extractives content.
Common Uses
Outdoor structures, siding, shingles, decking, fences, saunas, and interior paneling.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (British Columbia to Northern California).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$5.00 - $9.00 per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent construction (0-5 years) based on the vibrancy of the reddish hue and lack of significant weathering or silvering.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable in North America.
Workability
Easy to work with both hand and machine tools; very easy to plane and sand but brittle, prone to splintering and can dent easily due to softness.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic scent; lightweight; contains high levels of thujaplicin (anti-fungal agent); dust can be a respiratory irritant.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or semi-transparent stains are best for preserving color; film-forming finishes like polyurethane may peel over time in outdoor settings.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown hue combined with the distinct softwood grain structure, tight knots, and typical board texture are characteristic of Thuja plicata.