Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America (British Columbia down through Washington, Oregon, and Northern California).
- Hardness
- 350 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to high extractive content; moderate resistance to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine, and even grain with consistent annual rings; visible as tight linear lines across the face, characteristic of vertical or quartersawn lumber.
Color & Appearance
Reddish to pinkish brown heartwood; sapwood is typically thin and white-to-yellowish. It has a dull, non-lustrous surface and tends to weather to a silver-grey if left untreated outdoors.
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to high extractive content; moderate resistance to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $10.00 - $15.00 per board foot for high-grade, clear vertical grain (CVG) stock.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Modern sample; appears relatively fresh with minimal oxidation or silvering/patina, suggesting it is likely less than 5 years old.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed; FSC certification is commonly available for most commercial harvests.
Common Uses
Exterior siding, shingles, decking, greenhouse construction, boat building, fence posts, and sauna interiors.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (British Columbia down through Washington, Oregon, and Northern California).
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools; however, it is prone to crushing and denting due to low density. It glues and finishes well but can be brittle, leading to splintering.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to film-forming finishes like polyurethane for indoor use, or semi-transparent oil-based stains for outdoor use to preserve color and UV protection.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic 'cedar' scent; contains high amounts of thujaplicins (natural preservatives); dust can be a respiratory irritant.
