Wood Guide
Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata
Naturally rot‑ and insect‑resistant with a pleasant cedar aroma. Lightweight and stable, ideal for siding, outdoor furniture, and saunas.
Overview
Warm red‑brown tones with streaking; knots common in construction grades.
Maker’s note: Soft and brittle—support cuts and use backers to prevent tear‑out.
Appearance
Heartwood
Reddish Brown
Reddish Brown
Sapwood
Pale Cream
Pale Cream
Grain
Straight
Texture Coarse
Luster Low
Properties
Janka hardness
350 lbf
350 lbf
Density
385 kg/m³
385 kg/m³
MOR
66 MPa
66 MPa
Crushing strength
35 MPa
35 MPa
Shrink (radial)
2.2%
2.2%
Shrink (tangential)
5%
5%
Shrink (volumetric)
7.8%
7.8%
Movement
Low
Low
Steam bending
Fair
Fair
Values are typical; verify with your supplier.
Workability & Safety
Machining
Fibrous earlywood can fuzz; use sharp cutters and sand thoroughly.
Hand tools
Cuts easily but crushes; use very sharp edges and light passes.
Turning
Best for larger forms; delicate details can crumble.
Sanding schedule 120 → 150 → 180 → 220
Gluing Good
Finishing notes Use breathable exterior finishes; color weathers to silver gray outdoors.
Silica present
Blunting effect Low
Food contact OK
Toxicity flags
Toxicity notes Cedar dust can irritate airways; use extraction and a respirator.
Sourcing & Sustainability
Common in the PNW; look for PEFC/FSC cedar from responsible mills.
FSC available
Pricing —
Notes: Clear vertical grain is premium; knotty grades are economical. • Updated:
Uses & Positioning
Avoid for Cutting boards or utensils
Ideal for outdoor builds; design for fastener corrosion resistance due to extractives.
Gallery
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