Likely Western red cedar; the image shows warm reddish-brown, strongly contrasting growth bands. Aromatic redwood or another cedar is a less likely alternative. — Thuja plicata (likely)

Likely Western red cedar; the image shows warm reddish-brown, strongly contrasting growth bands. Aromatic redwood or another cedar is a less likely alternative.

Thuja plicata (likely) · Softwood; commonly classified as a durable western softwood.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood; commonly classified as a durable western softwood.
Origin
Pacific coast of North America, from southwestern Canada through the northwestern United States.
Hardness
350 lbf; Very Soft.
Durability
Durable heartwood; naturally resists decay and many insects better than its sapwood, but prolonged weather exposure can cause checking and discoloration.

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Grain Pattern

Mostly straight, with pronounced earlywood–latewood contrast and cathedral-shaped arches on flat-sawn boards; no obvious decorative figure.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood ranges from pale pinkish brown to reddish brown, with lighter tan sapwood. The boards appear clear and planed; cedar typically darkens or weathers toward gray with exposure.

Hardness (Janka)

350 lbf; Very Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Durable heartwood; naturally resists decay and many insects better than its sapwood, but prolonged weather exposure can cause checking and discoloration.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Roughly US$5–12 per board foot for clear, kiln-dried stock; grade, dimensions, and region strongly affect price.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Cannot reliably estimate from this image; the clean surface shows little visible wear or patina.

Common Uses

Siding, shingles, outdoor structures, fencing, cabinetry, saunas, and lightweight furniture.

Geographic Origin

Pacific coast of North America, from southwestern Canada through the northwestern United States.

Workability

Light and easy to cut, plane, sand, and fasten; soft fibers can dent or crush, and resinous areas may affect machining or finishing.

Finish Recommendations

For interior use, apply a clear oil, lacquer, or polyurethane to preserve the warm color; test first, as finish can deepen it. Exterior surfaces generally need a suitable penetrating exterior finish.

Notable Features

Low density, characteristic cedar aroma, and good dimensional stability; the image suggests selected, relatively knot-free boards.

Learn more about Likely Western red cedar; the image shows warm reddish-brown, strongly contrasting growth bands. Aromatic redwood or another cedar is a less likely alternative. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified October 3, 2026