Cedar is a popular choice of wood for many different projects, from fences and decks to shingles and siding. Cedar is known for its durability, resistance to decay, and beautifully natural color. Two of the most popular types of cedar are Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar. In this article, we will compare and contrast the characteristics of these two types of cedar and help you decide which one is best for your project.
Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar, also known as Thuja plicata, is a native of the Pacific Northwest of the United States and Canada. This type of cedar is known for its rich red-brown color and straight grain. It is a softwood that is easy to work with and has an excellent natural resistance to decay and insects. Western Red Cedar is often used for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and siding.
Lumber: Western Red Cedar lumber is highly sought after for its rich color and natural beauty. It is often used for high-end projects such as outdoor furniture and decking.
Shingles: Western Red Cedar shingles are a popular choice for roofing and siding because of their durability and resistance to decay.
Aromatic: Western Red Cedar has a distinctive aroma that is often used to repel moths and insects. It is a popular choice for lining closets and chests to keep clothes and linens fresh.
Decay: Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to decay and rot. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and is often used for outdoor projects.
Heartwood: The heartwood of Western Red Cedar is resistant to decay and insect damage, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for outdoor projects.
Fence: Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for fences because of its natural resistance to decay and insects. It is also a beautiful and durable option for any style of fence.
Deck: Western Red Cedar is an excellent choice for decking because of its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay.
Siding: Western Red Cedar siding is a popular choice for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay. It can be left untreated or stained to enhance its natural color.
Eastern Red Cedar
Eastern Red Cedar, also known as Juniperus virginiana, is a native of the eastern United States. This type of cedar is known for its light brown color and tight, knotty grain. It is a softwood that is easy to work with and has an excellent natural resistance to decay and insects. Eastern Red Cedar is often used for outdoor projects such as fences, decking, and siding.
Lumber: Eastern Red Cedar lumber is a popular choice for outdoor projects such as fencing and decking. It is durable, beautiful, and resistant to decay and insects.
Shingles: Eastern Red Cedar shingles are a popular choice for roofing and siding because of their natural resistance to decay and insects.
Aromatic: Eastern Red Cedar has a distinctive aroma that is often used to repel moths and insects. It is a popular choice for lining closets and chests to keep clothes and linens fresh.
Decay: Eastern Red Cedar is naturally resistant to decay and rot. It can withstand harsh weather conditions and is often used for outdoor projects.
Heartwood: The heartwood of Eastern Red Cedar is resistant to decay and insect damage, making it a durable and long-lasting choice for outdoor projects.
Fence: Eastern Red Cedar is a popular choice for fences because of its natural resistance to decay and insects. It is also a beautiful and durable option for any style of fence.
Deck: Eastern Red Cedar is an excellent choice for decking because of its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay.
Siding: Eastern Red Cedar siding is a popular choice for its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to decay. It can be left untreated or stained to enhance its natural color.
Eastern White Cedar
It’s worth noting that Eastern Red Cedar is sometimes confused with Eastern White Cedar, which is a different species of cedar. Eastern White Cedar, also known as Thuja occidentalis, is a native of eastern North America and is known for its pale white color and fine, straight grain. It is a softwood that is often used for outdoor projects such as fencing and decking. Eastern White Cedar is also used for making shingles, as it has an excellent natural resistance to decay and insects.
Choosing Between Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar
When it comes to choosing between Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar, there are a few factors to consider. Both types of cedar have an excellent natural resistance to decay and insects, making them a durable and long-lasting choice for outdoor projects. They are both also beautiful woods with unique natural colors and aromas. However, there are some differences to consider.
Appearance: Western Red Cedar has a richer, darker color than Eastern Red Cedar. It also has a straighter grain, which can give it a more uniform appearance. Eastern Red Cedar has a lighter, more knotty appearance that some people find charming.
Availability: Western Red Cedar is more widely available than Eastern Red Cedar, as it is grown in larger quantities and in more locations. Eastern Red Cedar is primarily grown in the eastern United States, which can make it more difficult to find in some regions.
Price: The price of Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar can vary depending on availability, location, and other factors. Generally, Western Red Cedar is slightly more expensive than Eastern Red Cedar, but the difference is not significant.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both Western Red Cedar and Eastern Red Cedar are excellent choices for outdoor projects such as fencing, decking, and siding. They are both durable, beautiful and resistant to decay and insects. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference, availability, and price. Whichever type of wood cedar you choose, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality wood that will provide years of beauty and durability.
