Western Red Cedar (or Eastern White Pine / Reclaimed Softwood)
Thuja plicata · Softwood / Reclaimed
- Type
- Softwood / Reclaimed
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest region of North America.
- Hardness
- 350 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to rot and decay, though exterior weathering causes surface silvering.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-textured grain, flat-sawn with a prominent knot streak / pitch pocket near the center upper section.
Color & Appearance
Aged golden-tan to warm reddish-brown heartwood hues with sun-bleached grey weathering and dark staining/decay along structural pitch pockets.
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to rot and decay, though exterior weathering causes surface silvering.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $4.00 to $8.00 per board foot for reclaimed weathered cedar lumber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Reclaimed timber aged approximately 20 to 50+ years based on surface oxidation, rough-sawn mill marks, and silver-grey patina.
- Sustainability Status
- IUCN Least Concern; sustainably harvested and highly eco-friendly when reclaimed.
Common Uses
Siding, shingles, decking, outdoor furniture, fence boards, rustic millwork, and reclaimed woodworking projects.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest region of North America.
Workability
Very easy to cut, plane, and sand with hand or power tools. Soft fibers require sharp tools to prevent fuzzy tearout. Soft surface dents easily.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough surface sanding or wire-brushing to remove weathered debris. Finish with penetrating exterior oil, clear varnish, or polyurethane.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic sweet cedar smell when freshly cut or sanded. Natural extractive oils give it rot resistance and lightweight structure.
