Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from Northern California to Alaska.
- Hardness
- 350 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to decay, rot, and weathering due to natural extractives (thujaplicins).
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, flat-sawn and vertical-sawn with tight, even growth rings visible on the surfaces.
Color & Appearance
Rich reddish-brown to pinkish-brown heartwood with lighter yellowish-white sapwood, heavily modified and darkened by a brownish stain or finish, exhibiting a moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to decay, rot, and weathering due to natural extractives (thujaplicins).
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.50 to 7.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 10 to 30 years old, based on surface wear patterns, oxidation, and the application of an older exterior/spa finish.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, generally of least concern on the IUCN Red List, widely available with strong sustainable forestry practices and certified plantations in North America.
Common Uses
Outdoor furniture, decking, siding, shingles, greenhouse construction, saunas, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from Northern California to Alaska.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools due to its softness; glues and finishes exceptionally well, though its softness makes it prone to denting and requires sharp tools to prevent tearing.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils, exterior varnishes, or semi-transparent stains work best in humid environments like spas; ensure the surface is clean and dry before reapplication.
Notable Features
Contains natural aromatic oils (thujaplicins) that impart a distinct cedar scent and provide natural insect and rot resistance; very lightweight and dimensionally stable.
Notes
In spa 2
