Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, flat-sawn with prominent growth ring transitions; contains tight pin knots and larger sound knots.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from pale pinkish-brown to deep reddish-brown; sapwood is yellowish-white. It features a flat luster and will silver-gray with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable; excellent natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack due to high thujaplicin content.
Common Uses
Exterior siding, decking, fencing, shingles, outdoor furniture, saunas, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (British Columbia to Northern California).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $4.00 to $9.00 per board foot depending on grade (Clear vs. STK/Select Tight Knot).
Wood Age Estimate
New lumber; appears to be fresh kiln-dried or air-dried stock with minimal oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests in North America.
Workability
Excellent workability with hand and machine tools; very easy to plane and sand but prone to splintering and crushing due to low density.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic cedar scent; contains water-soluble extractive tannins that can cause staining; very lightweight and Dimensionally stable.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil-based stains or transparent sealers to maintain color; film-forming finishes like polyurethane are prone to peeling outdoors.
Identification Confidence
High; identified by the characteristic reddish-brown hue variation, distinct softwood growth rings, specific knot structure, and stringy grain texture typical of Thuja species.