Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with a coarse, rough-sawn texture. The growth rings are clearly visible as tight, parallel lines indicative of old-growth or slow-grown timber.
Color Description
Reddish to pinkish brown heartwood with a medium luster. Sapwood is typically white to pale yellow. It will weather to a silver-grey patina over time if left untreated outdoors.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to high natural extractive content.
Common Uses
Outdoor fencing, decking, siding, shingles, greenhouse construction, patio furniture, and interior ceiling cladding.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (from Alaska to California and inland to Montana).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and region.
Wood Age Estimate
Post-production age appears to be contemporary (1-3 years) based on the freshness of the golden-brown color, though the tree itself was likely 80-120 years old at harvest based on growth ring density.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests, often FSC certified.
Workability
Easy to work with hand and machine tools, though very soft and prone to bruising or scratching. Holds nails and screws well but requires corrosion-resistant fasteners (stainless steel) to prevent black tannin staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic scent; contains natural oils that protect against moisture; low wood density makes it easy to handle but fragile; high tannin content can cause bleeding.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or semi-transparent stains are best to preserve color; film-forming finishes like lacquer are not recommended for outdoor use as the wood expands/contracts.
Identification Confidence
High - The combination of reddish-brown hue, straight tight growth rings, rough-sawn dimensional lumber appearance, and use in a fencing context is diagnostic for Western Red Cedar.