Cedar, a popular choice for various applications from construction to crafting, often sparks the question: is it a hard wood or a softwood? The answer, like many things in the lumber world, is nuanced. While generally categorized as a softwood, cedar's hardness varies depending on the specific species and its growth conditions. Let's delve deeper into this fascinating wood and its properties.
What Defines Hardwoods and Softwoods?
Before we classify cedar, it's crucial to understand the distinction between hardwoods and softwoods. This classification isn't about the wood's actual hardness but rather its botanical origin.
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Softwoods: Come from coniferous trees (cone-bearing trees like pines, spruces, firs, and cedars). These trees typically have needles or scale-like leaves and are generally faster-growing, resulting in softer, less dense wood.
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Hardwoods: Come from deciduous trees (broadleaf trees that shed their leaves annually, like oaks, maples, and cherries). These trees are usually slower-growing, producing denser, harder wood.
Therefore, based on its botanical origin, cedar is classified as a softwood.
Is Cedar Actually Soft? A Look at Janka Hardness
While cedar's botanical classification places it among softwoods, its actual hardness can vary considerably. The Janka hardness scale measures the resistance of wood to denting and wear. Different cedar species show a range on this scale, meaning some cedars are harder than others. For example, Western Red Cedar tends to be softer than Eastern Red Cedar. While generally softer than many hardwoods like oak or maple, certain cedar species can still possess surprising durability.
How does Cedar's hardness affect its uses?
The varied hardness of cedar influences its application. Softer cedar varieties are easier to work with, making them ideal for carving, crafting, and construction where easy machining is desirable. Harder varieties offer greater resistance to wear and tear, making them suitable for outdoor applications like decking or siding, though they might require more effort to work with.
What are the different types of cedar?
Several cedar species exist, each with slightly different properties including hardness, aroma, and color. Some of the most common include:
- Western Red Cedar: Known for its durability, resistance to decay, and beautiful reddish hue.
- Eastern Red Cedar: Often prized for its aromatic scent and strength.
- Incense Cedar: Highly fragrant and valued for its light color and resistance to insects.
- Atlantic White Cedar: Durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
This variety in species means the simple answer "soft" doesn't fully capture the diverse properties of cedar.
Is cedar a good choice for furniture?
Cedar's softness and susceptibility to dents make it less ideal for high-traffic furniture pieces that will experience significant wear and tear. However, its aromatic properties and beautiful grain make it a popular choice for chests, closets, and other less-used furniture items.
Is cedar resistant to rot and insects?
Many cedar species exhibit natural resistance to rot and insect damage, a significant factor influencing its popularity in exterior applications. However, this resistance is not absolute and depends on the specific species and the environment. Proper treatment can enhance its longevity in these areas.
Conclusion: Cedar – A Softwood with Varied Properties
In summary, cedar is classified as a softwood due to its botanical origins. While generally softer than hardwoods, the actual hardness varies between species and even within a species based on growth conditions. This variability influences its suitability for different applications. Its distinct aromatic qualities, natural resistance to rot and insects (to varying degrees), and ease of working with, make it a versatile and sought-after wood.
