Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is found on the Pacific Coast as far north as Alaska and in the valleys of the interior of B.C. This species is unique to the Pacific Northwest.
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Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar varies in colour from the sapwood having a yellowish tinge to the heartwood which varies from pinkish red to deep rich brown. The wood is straight grained and non-porous and has a distinctive odour.
Red Cedar is one of the lightest in weight of all commercially important softwood species. It is a “soft” wood of moderate strength but with excellent weather resistance. Red Cedar dries readily with very little shrinkage and has excellent working qualities.
Used primarily for boards, cutstock, wall panelling, exterior siding and cladding, decking, exterior trim work, doors and components, windows, and outdoor furniture, Red Cedar is also used for shingles and shakes for roofing.
Benefits of using Western Red Cedar:
- Straight-grained, non-porous
- Resistant to rot, weathering and decay
- Distinctive and pleasing aroma
- Relatively light weight softwood
- Very little shrinkage, excellent dimensional stability
- Moderate nail and screw holding ability
- Colors range from golden yellow to a deep red-brown
- Ideal for both finishing off interiors or for exterior use