Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a fine to medium texture. This sample appears to be vertical-grain (quartersawn) showing very consistent, parallel growth rings with minimal figure.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from a pale pinkish brown to a deeper reddish brown. Sapwood is typically white to pale yellow. It features a dull luster and will naturally weather to a silver-grey if left untreated outdoors.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable regarding decay resistance. It contains natural thujaplicins which provide excellent resistance to rot and insect attack.
Common Uses
Exterior siding, decking, shingles, outdoor furniture, saunas, boat building, and fence posts.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (from Alaska down to Northern California and Inland to Montana/Alberta).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain Clear is highest value).
Wood Age Estimate
Based on the light color and minimal oxidation, this appears to be a relatively new, kiln-dried board, likely harvested and milled within the last 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Generally sustainable and widely available; not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. FSC certification is common.
Workability
Excellent workability with both hand and machine tools. It is very easy to plane and sand, though its softness makes it prone to denting and scratching. It glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Features a very distinct, pleasant aromatic scent. It is extremely lightweight and has high dimensional stability (low shrinkage). It may cause respiratory irritation in some woodworkers.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or transparent stains are best for outdoor use to preserve color. For indoor use, water-based polyurethanes or lacquers work well. Highly acidic wood, so stainless steel fasteners are recommended to avoid black iron stains.
Identification Confidence
High. The combination of tight vertical growth rings, characteristic reddish-tan hue, visible lightweight texture, and a small pin-knot with dark resinous staining is consistent with Thuja plicata.