Organic Montana Grains

Western Red Cedar – The Ideal Wood for Outdoor Living Projects

There are over 100 species of cedar in the Cupressaceae family, clearly Western Red Cedar is the best choice for outdoor living structures.  It only grows in a limited range around the Rocky Mountains, from the Sumner Strait in Alaska to northwest California, and east to Montana and Idaho.  Occasionally it is called “canoe cedar” since Indians in the Northwest used it to fashin “dug-out” canoes.  These majestic trees can grow as high as 200′, and have circumferences of 20′. Some are estimated to be over 400 years old.

Western Red Cedar is a coniferous tree, and consequently is considered a softwood  The lumber is light weight, has a traight and even grain and has excellent insulating properties. It is referred by woodworkers due to the fact that it cuts and machines far better than most other lumber. Cedar has a low resin content, so glues tend to hold better. Slow growing ”old growth” cedar has “tight” growth rings.. In softwoods, the closer the growth rings are, the stronger the lumber tends to be. When trees grow more quickly, the growth rings are farther apart.

Naturally beautiful, resistant to rot and insect infestation, easily workable and more stable than most other commercially available softwoods, cedar just makes sense for most outdoor uses. You will frequently find cedar being used for constructing outdoor furniture, decks and gazebos. It tends to be over twice as stable as most other types of commercially available softwood lumber, and it stays straight and lays flat. Any outdoor living areas can be improved by adding structures made of cedar.

On the exterior of homes, cedar is widely used as a horizontal siding. It is available in many patterns, and can be used vertically, horizontally, or angled for a different effect. Beveled lap siding is the most common siding seen in reidential structures. There are many patterned boards, such as “channel rustic”, that can be used as a siding, paneling or ceiling. Cedar is also used for board and batten siding, and there are different 4′ x 8′ textured sheets available as well. Cedar shingles and shakes add a look of distinction when used on a gable or as roofing. Cedar boards are typically available in standard sizes of 1×2 (3/4″x1-1/2″), 1×4 (3/4″x3-1/2″), 1×6 (3/4″x5-1/2″), 1×8 (3/4″x7-1/4″), 1×10 (3/4″x9-1/4″), and 1×12 (3/4″x11-1/4″),. Dimensional cedar lumber is widely available in thicknesses and widths from nominal 2″ (actual 1-1/2″) to nominal 12″ (actual 11-1/4″) in 2″ increments.

Cedar boards can be used inside houses for interior trim. It really adds a warm, rustic look to rooms. Beautiful false beams and columns can be constructed around steel or less attractive wood posts and beams, and many homes have fireplace mantels made from 4×12 cedar. Cedar boards can be used instead of mouldings to trim out windows and doors.

The first choice of wood for organic raised garden beds is definitely Western Red Cedar. Since it is naturally resistant to moisture, decay and insect damage, Since no chemicals are added it is extremely attractive for beds where vegetables and fruits will be grown. Where vining plants require plenty of space, cedar frames can be constructed above beds, allowing for vertical growth.

Cedar can also be used to build fences, planter boxes, bird houses and feeders. It is easy to cut, drill, and shape. Freshly cut cedar lumber has a pleasant aroma. 

Structures made from Western Red Cedar can last for 30 years or more when properly installed, finished and cared for. This clearly makes it the best softwood lumber choice where long product life, beauty and durability are considered important.

Wheat Montana (406) 285-3614

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