Western Red Cedar (Thuja Plicata) has a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years to the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The trees grow naturally and abundantly in the wet climates of British Columbia and modern-day Washington state and became a key natural resource for the tribes of First Peoples. Cedar was imperative to the day-to-day lives of these First Peoples, and they used every part of the tree, including the wood, roots, and bark for the production of material goods such as canoes, baskets, and clothing. In addition, cedar trees were also used for spiritual and ceremonial purposes, with the bark and branches being used in traditional dances and rituals.

Western Red Cedar was also highly valued and sought by European settlers and explorers who arrived in the Pacific Northwest in the 19th century. They used cedar similar to how it’s used today – including for building materials, furniture, and fencing. These early settlers also viewed the Western Red Cedar trees as a source of food, with the bark and leaves being used to make tea, and the seeds being consumed as a source of protein.

Fast forward a few hundred years, and Western Red Cedar is still widely used in construction and home improvement projects due to its light-weight durability, natural resistance to poor weather, insects, and decay, and attractive appearance. This makes It a popular choice for long-lasting outdoor applications, such as exterior siding, decking, and exterior trim, as well as for interior applications such as paneling, ceiling beams, and furniture.

In addition to these strengths, Western Red Cedar is also an eco-friendly option. The trees are relatively fast-growing and can be harvest after just 30-50 years, and sustainable foresting practices are in place to ensure that three new trees are planted for each mature tree harvested, making it a renewable resource. Additionally, using wood products in your building reduces carbon dioxide in the air, and the long-lasting nature of cedar will ensure you won’t waste time, resources, or waste dealing with replacement materials. Finally, if you do look to change your application, cedar is completely recyclable and bio-degradable, so the wood can be reused for future projects, or returned to Mother Nature.

In terms of sustainability, Western Red Cedar is an eco-friendly option. The trees are relatively fast-growing and can be harvested after just 30-50 years, making them a renewable resource. Additionally, Western Red Cedar forests are managed in a sustainable manner, with replanting and conservation efforts in place to ensure the long-term health of the forests.

You can learn about how sustainable cedar truly is – here.

Overall, Western Red Cedar has a rich and fascinating history that is closely tied to the culture and traditions of the Pacific Northwest. Its unique properties and versatility have made it a value and sought-after wood species for a wide range of construction and home improvement projects. As our appreciation for sustainable, natural materials continues to grow, it is likely that Western Red Cedar will continue to play a significant role in the world of building and design.