Uses of Western Red Cedar

Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) is a durable light weight species with natural resistance to insects that is often used for exterior projects such as:

·        Siding

·        Fencing

·        Decking

·        Outdoor furniture

·        Flower boxes

·        Electric power poles

·        Roofing tiles (Shakes & Shingles)

·        Garden sheds

·        Garden mulch

·        Caskets

Western Red Cedar is also an attractive wood ranging from pale yellow-white sapwood to rich reddish-brown heartwood that is popular with indoor applications such as:

·        Ceiling and wall paneling

·        Sauna paneling

·        Window blinds

·        Musical instruments

·        Cabinets 

Historically, Canadian aboriginal people used parts of the cedar tree to build canoes, totem poles, decorative carvings, baskets, and even clothing.

Today, Western Red Cedar is also used in various cooking techniques such as cedar slabs that are used as cooking plates to hold salmon while cooking on a barbeque.  Wood chips from cedar are also used in meat smokers to add flavor to various meats being cured inside the smoker.