Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata
Western Red Cedar is a lightweight, aromatic softwood renowned for its exceptional resistance to decay. It is the premier choice for siding, shingles, and outdoor structures in North America. The wood's natural oils provide protection without chemical treatment and produce a distinctive pleasant aroma.
Botanical Profile
Thuja plicata is a large evergreen conifer native to the Pacific Northwest, typically reaching 50-70 meters in height. It features scale-like foliage and produces small cones. The tree thrives in moist coastal and mountain forests and can live for over 1000 years. It is not a true cedar but a cypress family member.
Physical Properties
The heartwood is reddish-brown with pale yellow sapwood. It has a fine, even texture with generally straight grain. Dried weight averages 368 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 350 lbf. The wood is one of the lightest commercial softwoods with exceptional dimensional stability.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - very soft wood
Gluing Advice
Good; wipe surfaces to remove oils before gluing
Finishing
Takes finishes well; often left unfinished for natural gray weathering
Steam Bending
Good when steamed
Historical Context
Western Red Cedar was essential to Pacific Northwest indigenous peoples for canoes, longhouses, and totem poles. European settlers adopted it for construction. Today it remains the preferred species for exterior siding, shingles, and saunas due to its natural durability and aroma.
Technical Specs
Sustainable from well-managed Pacific Northwest forests