Cedar: The Naturally Durable Wood for Outdoor Living

Cedar (Thuja plicata) has been revered for millennia—"Tree of Life" to Pacific Northwest peoples. Today, its innate oils make it the gold standard for outdoor furniture, fencing, and structures that last generations.

Why Cedar Wins Outdoors

• Rot/insect resistant: Natural thujaplicins—no chemical treatment needed.
• Dimensionally stable: Low shrinkage/warping—stays straight.
• Lightweight yet strong: Easy to work, holds fasteners.
• Thermal insulator: Stays cool in sun, warm to touch.
• Ages gracefully: Silver-gray patina or stain/seal for color retention.
• Sustainable: Managed second-growth, biodegradable.

Furniture Classics

Adirondack chairs, rockers, folding chairs, benches, swings, gliders. Handcrafted in Adirondack tradition. White cedar for indoor (chests, hangers—moth-repellent).

Garden Structures

Arbors, trellises, planter boxes, potting benches, tree benches. Pet houses, feeders. All gain cedar's longevity.

Fencing Excellence

Red cedar boards: privacy, windbreak, boundary, aesthetic. Resists cupping. Stains beautifully. 20+ year life with minimal care. Posts: set in concrete for max stability.

Working with Cedar

Pre-drill near ends (prevents splitting). Use stainless/hot-dipped galvanized fasteners. Sharp tools—cedar dulls blades. Finish: penetrating oil (annual) or semi-transparent stain (3–5 yrs).

Investment Grade

Higher upfront than pine/fir, but lower lifetime cost. Adds property value. Choosing cedar means choosing once.