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, highly resistant to decay, rot, and insect attack due to natural extractives (thujaplicins)
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with medium to coarse texture, flat-sawn appearance visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to pinkish heartwood with a narrow pale yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkens slightly to a rich brown upon prolonged UV exposure if unfinished
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, highly resistant to decay, rot, and insect attack due to natural extractives (thujaplicins)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated relatively recent to modern mill-sawn lumber, 1 to 10 years old based on clean edges and lack of deep oxidation patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available with strong forest management certification (FSC) in North America
Common Uses
Exterior siding, decking, shingles, outdoor furniture, greenhouse construction, boat building, and acoustic guitar soundboards
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from Northern California to Alaska
Workability
Exceptional workability; cuts, planes, and sands easily with hand and machine tools, though its softness makes it prone to denting; holds glues and finishes very well
Finish Recommendations
Accepts transparent stains, semi-transparent oils, and high-quality exterior finishes very well; often left unfinished to weather to a soft silvery-gray patina
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic, sweet-resinous scent; contains natural preservative oils making it exceptionally weather-resistant without chemical treatment; lightweight and dimensionally stable
