WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
Western Red Cedar
Thuja plicata
Also known as: Pacific Red Cedar, Giant Arborvitae
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 350 lbf (1,557 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 368 kg/m³ (23 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.32
- Type
- Softwood
- Grain
- Generally straight
- Texture
- Fine and even
- Durability
- Very durable, highly resistant to decay and insect attack
- Region
- North America
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Sustainable from well-managed Pacific Northwest forests
Overview
Western Red Cedar is a lightweight, aromatic softwood renowned for its exceptional resistance to decay. It is the premier choice for siding, shingles, and outdoor structures in North America. The wood's natural oils provide protection without chemical treatment and produce a distinctive pleasant aroma.
The heartwood is reddish-brown with pale yellow sapwood. It has a fine, even texture with generally straight grain. Dried weight averages 368 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 350 lbf. The wood is one of the lightest commercial softwoods with exceptional dimensional stability.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - very soft wood
Gluing
Good; wipe surfaces to remove oils before gluing
Finishing
Takes finishes well; often left unfinished for natural gray weathering
Steam Bending
Good when steamed
Scent
Strong, pleasant cedar aroma - natural insect repellent
Assessment
Strengths
- Excellent decay resistance
- Light weight
- Aromatic
- Easy to work
Weaknesses
- Soft
- Can splinter
- Weaker than many softwoods
Common Uses
Siding · Shingles · Outdoor furniture · Saunas · Chests · Decks