Cedar

  • Genus: Cedrus (other trees outside this genus are called cedar)
  • Tree types: Deciduous & Evergreen
  • Wood type: Softwood
  • Variations: Many (we mostly use western red cedar)

When it comes to lumber, the name cedar is a bit of a catchall. It refers to several different kinds, and species, of wood – with varying structural and aesthetic characteristics.

Despite the panoply of noble trees that fall into this category, when it comes to cedar as lumber there are some traits they share in common.

Cedar is typically:

  • Lightweight
  • Rot resistant (great for boats and other outdoor uses)
  • Aromatic (ever been to the sauna?)
  • And presents with red to brown coloring (except yellow cedar)

We mostly use it in outdoor applications.