Lumber Spotlight: Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar is a popular type of evergreen lumber. Even though the wood is relatively soft, old growth cuts made from cedar heartwood are nearly as dense as hardwoods, with an attractive color and grain structure. Western Red Cedar is part of The Lumber Baron’s Top 3 Lumber Products, along with Douglas Fir and Redwood.

A Sustainable Choice

Don’t be fooled by inferior western red cedar from unknown sources. Shop with a company like PEFC certification is the environmental star of excellence issued to forest management companies. At The Lumber Baron, all of our Western Red Cedar comes from PEFC sources, so you know that you are getting the best lumber from a responsible lumber mill.

Different Grades of Cedar

There are 3 grades of cedar. Each grade can be used for a variety of projects, and has it’s own unique appearance and texture. The Lumber Baron stocks all three grades, depending on market availability. Here’s what to look for:

·        Select Tight Knot - Contains some small knots. Used for both interior and exterior applications.

·        Super Select Heart - Quality cut heartwood, showing very few knots. Works well for everything from cabinets to siding.

·        Clear All Heart - This top-of-the-line grade comes from the heart of old growth timber and is free of knots and blemishes. Ideal for any construction project.

Perfect for Every Application

Western Red Cedar is durable, yet light and easy to work with. Clear and higher grades are cut from old growth heartwood, providing a more densely packed material that is resistant to rot and decay.

·        Kiln Dried Cuts - Freshly milled or milled and fired timber that has been prepared right here at our on site saw mill. All new cut Western Red Cedar comes from timber lands with PEFC certification. Available in all common 1- and 2-by sizes.

·        Beams and Timbers - For roof supports, beams and sturdy outdoor projects, Western Red Cedar is available in dimensions ranging from 4-by-4 to 12-by-12, and lengths of up to 20 feet are generally in stock. Longer pieces can be milled to your specifications.

·        Cedar Palings - Inexpensive cedar palings are sold by the bundle, and each paling is a full ¾-inch thick. That’s 50 percent thicker than buying palings of a lesser quality at the big box stores.

To get an idea of how Western Red Cedar can enhance your remodel or new build, look through our showcase of projects. Each one was completed using one or more of our featured lumber projects. Some simple carpentry skills, your imagination, and an appreciation for fine lumber are all you need to craft some exciting projects that will stand the test of time.  Stop by the lumber yard at The Lumber Baron today to see our current Western Red Cedar offerings.