Eastern Red Cedar Vs Western Red Cedar For Fence

Because red cedar isn t a lumber located near our area you would end up paying a lot more for a red cedar fence because of the additional shipping costs.

Eastern red cedar vs western red cedar for fence.

This plant is actually a juniper as its botanical name juniperus virginiana indicates true cedars belong to the cedrus genus and are not native to this country. This chart compares the average cost of western red cedar vs. The latin name for western red cedar is thuja plicata thuja is the name of the resin that produces that distinct aroma of the red cedar. The wood is light weight 21 lbs per cu ft or 335 kg cu m and so is weaker than red cedar by a considerable amount.

Red cedar is slightly stronger than white cedar fence. In that case red cedar would be more local. The name is a misnomer. Note that this cost benefit analysis would change if you were building a fence on the west coast instead.

Northern white cedar resists decay and insect infestation like its western red cousin making it similarly suitable for outdoor projects such as shingles posts and decking. After 40 years western red cedar continues to prove itself to be the ideal choice for fences and other outdoor structures. The western red cedar is also quite long lived with some members of the species living more than 900 years. Not all types of cedar are created equal however.

The eastern red cedar is much shorter overall than the western red cedar typically being between 16 to 66 feet tall 5 to 20 m with a trunk between 12 to 39 inches 30 to 100 cm in diameter. Alaskan yellow cedar per square foot depending on the style of custom home you build. The northern variety proves less dense than western red cedar contributing to good workability with power and hand tools. Eastern white cedar is a close relative of western red cedar genetically speaking.

However the white cedar tree is much smaller and so the lumber is quite knotty compared to the very clear lumber of red cedar. Eastern and western red cedar are rated as highly durable by the university with eastern red cedar having a lifespan of more than 30 years. In addition white cedar and red cedar can absorb paints and oils without any problem. Unfortunately this resin in not inherent in eastern white cedar.

Western red cedar contains natural tannin oils that protect it from weathering rotting decay and termite damage. At a better fence company we use only western red cedar for our cedar fences arbors and pergolas. When it s an eastern redcedar. Canoe builders use the wood to fashion their boats.

When is a cedar not a cedar. The main differences between white cedar and red cedar are in terms of durability and strength. This is a naturally occurring resin that not only prolongs the life of the western red but enhances its durability. Both white cedar and red cedar can air dry easily.