Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood (gymnosperm/conifer)
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse-textured grain with a flat-sawn appearance showing distinct growth rings
Color Description
Medium reddish-brown heartwood with significant oxidation; sapwood is typically thin and yellowish-white. It darkens to a silvery-gray when weathered outdoors.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to natural thujaplicins; moderate resistance to insect attack.
Common Uses
Exterior siding, shingles, decking, fence posts, greenhouse construction, outdoor furniture, and saunas.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (from Southern Alaska to Northern California).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Clear Heart vs. Common).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era (10-30 years); the surface shows signs of rough-milling and natural weathering but retains its structural integrity.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; generally considered sustainable and widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Very easy to work with hand and machine tools; however, its softness makes it prone to denting and scratching. It glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic cedar-like scent; high tannin content; lightweight with excellent dimensional stability and thermal insulation properties.
Finish Recommendations
Transparent or semi-transparent exterior stains are recommended to preserve color. If used indoors, clear oils or water-based polyurethanes work well.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown hue combined with the fibrous, straight-grained texture and typical rough-sawn surface for outdoor lumber is characteristic of Thuja plicata.