Choosing the right type of cedar for your project can be tricky, especially when faced with the similar-sounding options of yellow cedar and red cedar. While both boast beautiful grain, durability, and a pleasant aroma, key differences exist in their properties, making them suitable for different applications. This guide will delve into the specifics, helping you make an informed decision.
What are Yellow Cedar and Red Cedar?
Before comparing, let's establish what each type of wood is. Both are members of the Cupressaceae family, known for their aromatic qualities and resistance to decay.
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Yellow Cedar ( Chamaecyparis nootkatensis): Also known as Alaska yellow cedar, this species is native to the coastal regions of northwestern North America. Its heartwood ranges from pale yellow to a rich golden brown, hence the name.
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Red Cedar ( Juniperus virginiana): This is a more widely known cedar, often simply called Eastern Red Cedar or Aromatic Cedar. It's native to eastern North America and features a reddish-brown heartwood. Note that the term "red cedar" can also refer to other species of juniper and even some cypress trees, leading to potential confusion. This guide focuses specifically on Juniperus virginiana.
Key Differences: Yellow Cedar vs. Red Cedar
Several key distinctions set these two cedars apart, influencing their suitability for various applications:
Strength and Durability
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Yellow Cedar: Known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and remarkable durability, even surpassing some hardwoods in rot resistance. It's highly resistant to decay and insect attack, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
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Red Cedar: While also naturally rot-resistant, red cedar is generally less strong and durable than yellow cedar. It's still suitable for many exterior projects but may require more frequent maintenance or treatment in harsher climates.
Appearance and Grain
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Yellow Cedar: Its grain is typically straight and fine-textured, lending itself to a smooth, polished finish. The color ranges from pale yellow to golden brown, sometimes exhibiting attractive figure or grain patterns.
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Red Cedar: This species exhibits a more variable grain pattern, sometimes featuring a more pronounced texture. The color ranges from a light reddish-brown to a deep, rich red.
Workability
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Yellow Cedar: While generally easy to work with, its density and strength can make it slightly more challenging to machine than red cedar. Sharp tools are recommended.
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Red Cedar: Known for its relatively easy workability, it's easily planed, sanded, and shaped, making it a popular choice for DIY projects.
Price
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Yellow Cedar: Due to its superior properties and limited geographic range, yellow cedar is typically more expensive than red cedar.
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Red Cedar: Generally more readily available and less expensive, making it a more budget-friendly option.
What is the difference in smell between yellow cedar and red cedar?
Both yellow and red cedar possess distinct aromatic qualities. Yellow cedar often has a milder, sweeter scent, sometimes described as slightly citrusy. Red cedar, on the other hand, typically has a stronger, more pungent aroma, frequently associated with its use in chests and closets for its insect-repelling properties. The intensity of the aroma can vary depending on factors such as the age of the wood and its exposure to air.
Which cedar is better for outdoor use?
Both are suitable for exterior applications due to their natural rot resistance, but yellow cedar's superior durability and strength make it the preferred choice for demanding outdoor projects, such as decking, siding, and boat building, where longevity and resistance to the elements are crucial. Red cedar can be used outdoors, but it may require more frequent maintenance or treatment.
Which cedar is better for indoor use?
For interior applications like cabinetry, paneling, or furniture, both cedars offer appealing aesthetics and pleasant aromas. The choice often comes down to budget and desired aesthetics, as both species are perfectly suitable for indoor use.
What are the common uses of yellow cedar and red cedar?
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Yellow Cedar: Commonly used for decking, siding, boat building, construction timbers, and high-end furniture.
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Red Cedar: Frequently used in fencing, siding, roofing shingles, cabinetry, chests, and crafting.
Ultimately, the "better" cedar depends on your specific needs and project requirements. Consider your budget, the intended application (indoor or outdoor), desired durability, and aesthetic preferences when making your choice. Carefully weighing these factors will ensure you select the ideal cedar for your project.
