
Western Red Cedar (Alternative: Redwood or Pine)
Thuja plicata · Softwood / Reclaimed
- Type
- Softwood / Reclaimed
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest region of North America (United States and Canada).
- Hardness
- 350 lbf (Very Soft)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay, rot, and insects due to extractives.
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Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with visible fine growth rings, prominent checking/cracking, and a tight knot at the bottom.
Color & Appearance
Extensively weathered silvery-gray exterior due to UV and moisture exposure; underlying raw wood is naturally reddish-brown to light pinkish-brown.
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to decay, rot, and insects due to extractives.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.50 - $5.00 per board foot (standard dimensional cedar); reclaimed weathered planks can fetch $4.00 - $8.00 per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- 5 to 15+ years of outdoor exposure based on the deep graying, surface raising of earlywood, surface checking, and oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN Status); widely available with FSC certification; highly sustainable soft wood.
Common Uses
Outdoor fencing, siding, shingles, decking, outdoor furniture, arbor structures, and reclaimed rustic woodwork.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest region of North America (United States and Canada).
Workability
Very easy to work with hand and power tools; cuts easily but prone to denting, splintering, and tearout if tools are dull. Accepts nails and screws easily.
Finish Recommendations
Requires thorough pressure washing or heavy sanding to remove dead gray fibers before finishing; best finished with penetrating oil stain, clear exterior sealer, or left natural to age further.
Notable Features
Distinct aromatic scent when freshly cut or sanded; highly dimensional stability; light weight; high natural extractive content which can cause bleed-through on light paints.