When choosing the right type of wood for your project, the decision can be overwhelming. Two popular options for outdoor use are white cedar and red cedar. While they may seem similar, they have distinct differences in appearance, durability, and strength. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the qualities of each wood and help you make an informed decision for your project.
Western Red Cedar
Western red cedar is a type of softwood that is found primarily in western North America. It is known for its rich reddish-brown colour and distinctive grain pattern. Cedar shingles made from this wood are popular for roofing due to their natural resistance to decay and insects. Western red cedar is also used for siding, fences, and outdoor furniture.
Appearance
As mentioned, western red cedar has a distinct reddish-brown color with a tight and straight grain pattern. Its color can range from a light pinkish-brown to a dark reddish-brown, with occasional streaks of dark brown. The wood has a smooth texture and a natural luster, making it an attractive outdoor option.
Durability
Western red cedar is slightly stronger than white cedar and highly resistant to decay and insect damage. It is also known for its natural ability to withstand weathering and has a long lifespan when properly maintained. Western red cedar is often used for exterior applications because of its durability.
Uses
Western red cedar is a versatile wood commonly used for roofing, siding, fencing, and outdoor furniture. It is also a popular choice for decking due to its natural resistance to rot and decay.
Knots
Western red cedar may have occasional knots but are typically small and tight. The knots do not significantly impact the strength or durability of the wood and can even add character to the finished product.
White Cedar
White cedar, also known as eastern white cedar or Thuja occidentalis, is a type of softwood found primarily in the northeastern United States and Canada. It is known for its light colour and fine-grain pattern. White cedar is often used for siding, decking, and outdoor furniture.
Appearance
White cedar has a light colour that ranges from a pale yellow to a white-grey tone. Its grain pattern is fine and even, with occasional knots. The wood has a smooth texture and a natural lustre, making it an attractive outdoor option.
Durability
White cedar is also known for its natural ability to withstand decay and insect damage. It has a long lifespan when properly maintained and is often used for exterior applications because of its durability.
Uses
White cedar is commonly used for siding, decking, and outdoor furniture. It is also a popular choice for fencing due to its natural resistance to rot and decay.
Knots
White cedar may have occasional knots but are typically small and tight. The knots do not significantly impact the strength or durability of the wood and can even add character to the finished product.
White Cedar vs Red Cedar
When choosing between white cedar and red cedar, there are a few factors to consider. Both kinds of wood have similar properties regarding decay and insect damage resistance. However, western red cedar is slightly more robust and durable than white cedar. Western red cedar is also more resistant to weathering and is often used for roofing, while white cedar is often used for decking and outdoor furniture.
Another factor to consider is appearance. While both planks of wood are attractive, they have distinct differences in colour and grain pattern. Western red cedar has a rich reddish-brown colour with a tight, straight-grain pattern. White cedar, on the other hand, has a light colour with a fine and even grain pattern. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project.
In terms of knots, both white cedar and red cedar may have occasional knots, but they are typically small and tight. Knots do not significantly impact the strength or durability of the wood and can even add character to the finished product.
It is also worth noting that white cedar is sometimes referred to as “northern white cedar” to distinguish it from another species of cedar called “white cedar” found primarily in the southern United States. The southern white cedar is not as commonly used for outdoor applications due to its lower durability and strength than western red cedar and northern white cedar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both white cedar and red cedar are excellent choices for outdoor projects due to their natural resistance to decay and insect damage. However, regarding strength and durability, western red cedar is slightly stronger and more resistant to weathering than white cedar. On the other hand, white cedar is known for its fine and even grain pattern, making it an attractive option for decking and outdoor furniture. Ultimately, the choice between white cedar and red cedar comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of your project.
