Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and consistent grain with a relatively fine texture; flat-sawn face showing subtle growth ring transitions. No significant figure is present in this utility-grade sample.
Color Description
Reddish-brown to pinkish-tan heartwood with thin, yellowish-white sapwood. Subdued luster. It typically weathers to a silvery gray when exposed to UV light without a finish.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to natural extractives (thujaplicins).
Common Uses
Decking, siding, shingles, outdoor furniture, fence posts, boat building, and saunas.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (from Alaska to Northern California and inland to Montana).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Clear Heart vs Common).
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled lumber, likely less than 1 year since processing based on the lack of oxidation and sharp, rough-sawn edges.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it is prone to splintering and bruising due to its softness. It glues and finishes well but may require a sealer to prevent tannin bleed.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic cedar scent; contains natural preservatives; lightweight with high dimensional stability; dust can be a respiratory irritant for some.
Finish Recommendations
Transparent or semi-transparent stains for outdoor use; oil-based finishes or polyurethane for indoor use. Rough surfaces may require sanding if a film-forming finish is desired.
Identification Confidence
High; the color, splintery texture on the edge, straight grain, and context of the workshop environment are diagnostic of Western Red Cedar.