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 insect attack due to natural extractives (thujaplicins)
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Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain with distinct growth rings and a tight knot visible near the top right
Color & Appearance
Warm reddish-brown to pale pinkish-brown heartwood with lighter yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, ages to a silvery gray when exposed to UV light outdoors
Hardness (Janka)
350 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable, with exceptional natural resistance to decay, rot, and insect attack due to natural extractives (thujaplicins)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions
- Wood Age Estimate
- New to moderately seasoned commercial lumber (likely harvested within the last 1 to 3 years based on bright color and lack of heavy weathering)
- Sustainability Status
- Generally considered sustainable, widely available, managed under strict forestry regulations in North America, not CITES listed and of least concern on the IUCN Red List
Common Uses
Exterior siding, decking, shingles, fencing, outdoor furniture, greenhouse construction, boat building, and light framing
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from Northern California to Alaska
Workability
Exceptional workability; planes, cuts, and sands very easily with hand or machine tools, though its softness makes it prone to denting and requires sharp tools to avoid tearing soft earlywood
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and transparent finishes exceptionally well; exterior applications often benefit from penetrating oils or semi-transparent stains, while interior can be finished with lacquer, polyurethane, or left unfinished to preserve the scent
Notable Features
Distinctive aromatic cedar scent, very lightweight, excellent dimensional stability, low shrinkage, and contains natural chemical extractives that resist rot without chemical treatment
