The benefits of Western Red Cedar for your next home improvement project
Cedar lumber has been a popular choice among homeowners and builders alike for its many benefits and uses. From its beautiful reddish orange colour and natural resistance to decay, to its versatility and long-term resilience, cedar is an excellent choice for a wide range of home improvement projects, both indoors and outdoors.
One key reason why people love using cedar lumber is its natural aesthetic. Natural cedar brings warm colour and character to any space, making it ideal for adding character to indoor spaces, or adding beauty to an outdoor structure. Unlike many softwoods, cedar is low maintenance, meaning it will keep the look you want for a long time without much input. However, if you are looking to enhance your cedar, it also takes on paints and stains extremely well.
Another main benefit of using cedar lumber is its resistance to decay and rot. Cedar has a high content of natural preservatives called extractives, which produces its signature aroma that humans love, but insects hate. Think of it as a natural repellant. These extractives also protect the wood from rot. In addition, since cedar is grown in the damp climate of the Pacific Northwest, it’s naturally resistant to moisture. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects, such as decks, fences, and siding, as it can withstand the elements and maintain its structural integrity for many years.
In addition to its natural beauty and durability, cedar lumber is also highly versatile and can be used for a wide range of home improvement projects. It can be used for framing, trim, cabinetry, flooring, paneling, and furniture, along with decking, fencing and more. Cedar lumber comes in a wide variety of cuts and finishes, so whether you’re looking for something simple and clear or rustic and knotty, there’s a product for you.
Due to the mentioned features and benefits, cedar lumber is a supremely well-used, well-loved product. But did you also know that it’s a sustainable choice for home improvement projects? Cedar trees grow relatively quickly and are harvested from ethically managed forests that prioritize re-planting, making it a renewable resource. In addition, cedar lasts for decades, meaning you won’t spend money or environmental resources replacing it every few years. When you do feel like changing things up, cedar is also biodegradable, meaning that it can be safely disposed of without harming the environment.
Overall, cedar lumber is an excellent choice for home improvement projects due to its natural resistance to decay and rot, versatility, and sustainability. Its beautiful colour and warm, inviting tone make it make it a top choice for your next home improvement project, big or small.