Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and even grain with a somewhat coarse texture. Exhibits flat-sawn cathedral patterns in larger sections, with small sound knots typical of construction-grade timber.
Color Description
Heartwood varies from a pale pinkish-brown to a deep reddish-brown. Sapwood is typically narrow and white to pale yellow. It develops a silver-grey patina when weathered outdoors without finish.
Hardness Rating
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable/Very Durable; excellent resistance to decay and rot due to high extractive content, though less resistant to insects like termites.
Common Uses
Outdoor siding, decking, fencing, shingles, greenhouse construction, exterior trim, and saunas.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America (from Alaska to California and reaching into Montana).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Clear vs. Knotty) and regional availability.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh; the light color and lack of grey weathering suggest it has been milled or exposed to the elements for less than 6 months.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from managed forests; not listed in CITES appendices.
Workability
Very easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues and finishes well, but its softness makes it prone to denting and scratching. Fastener withdrawal resistance is relatively low.
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic scent; contains natural oils that provide weather resistance; very lightweight; can cause respiratory irritation or allergic skin reactions in some workers.
Finish Recommendations
Semi-transparent stains or penetrating oils are best to preserve natural color. If used indoors, clear coat polyurethane or lacquer works well, though it is often left unfinished in saunas.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-brown hue combined with the fibrous texture, specific knot structure, and application for outdoor utility (as seen in context) are classic indicators of Western Red Cedar.