Whatever your next project, western red cedar should be at the top of your list. Its durability, sustainability, aesthetic appeal and signature sweet scent make it a responsible and eco-conscious choice for various indoor and outdoor applications.
Quick Facts about Western Red Cedar
The western red cedar may take its name from America’s west coast. But did you know that this tall, evergreen tree isn’t a cedar at all? The Thuja plicata resembles a conifer with its conical shape and flattened foliage sprays.
Northwestern US tribes call themselves the “people of the red cedar” and use it to craft everything from totem poles to canoes and clothing. It’s said that standing with your back to a red cedar tree can strengthen you.
Now widely grown in Britain for timber and hedging, red cedar can tolerate deep shade, making it ideal for overlooked gardens. Better yet, if you rub the leaves between your fingers, they release a scent like pear drops and pineapple.
Properties and Uses
Western red cedar has many outstanding properties that make it much sought after. Its attractive reddish-brown colour enhances its aesthetic appeal. Meanwhile, its clean, straight grain gives red cedar superior workability and outstanding durability.
Where this timber truly shines is its remarkable resistance to decay. Naturally occurring chemicals called thujaplicins protect the wood from fungi and rot, ensuring its durability for hundreds of years.
A relatively soft wood, red cedar has minimal expansion and shrinkage for exceptional stability. Its open cell structure makes cedar an excellent thermal insulator, ideal for keeping energy bills low.
Western red cedar is the ideal choice for adding a stylish finish to decking, fencing, and fascias. Timber merchants Salisbury, like https://www.timbco.co.uk, will be happy to advise on the best timber grade for your project.
Is western red cedar sustainable?
So, is this North American native an eco-conscious choice? Absolutely. Responsible sourcing and its eco-friendly nature make it a go-to option for your next high-end project.
Additionally, western red cedar’s foliage and fissured bark benefit wildlife. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice to elevate your outdoor and indoor spaces.