In this friendly yet informative guide, we’ll compare Eastern and Western Red Cedar in detail – covering everything from wood color and grain to rot resistance, hardness (Janka ratings), common applications (like cedar siding, furniture, or closet linings), aroma, workability, cost, and more. By the end, you’ll understand the strengths of each cedar and get guidance on choosing the right one for your project.
Hardwood vs Softwood Lumber: Differences Explained (Oak, Walnut, Pine, Cypress & Eastern Red Cedar)
The terms hardwood and softwood actually refer to the type of tree, not necessarily the wood’s actual hardness. Hardwoods come from deciduous, broadleaf trees (like oak and walnut), while softwoods come from conifers/evergreens with needles (like pine, cedar, and cypress).
Shiplap vs Tongue & Groove: The Ultimate Guide to Differences, Durability, Cost, and Installation
Shiplap uses a rabbeted overlap where one board laps the next, creating a distinct shadow line that emphasizes horizontal courses, while tongue & groove uses a projecting tongue on one edge that fits into a mating groove for a tight, interlocking seam. These joint types influence installation tolerances, movement under humidity, and the finished appearance of walls, ceilings, or siding.
Aromatic Cedar Closet Liners: Natural Benefits, Installation, and Maintenance Guide
Aromatic cedar liners deter moths and certain fabric pests primarily through volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from the heartwood; these compounds interact with insect olfactory receptors and reduce attraction or feeding behavior on stored textiles. Typical targets include clothing moth larvae and other fabric-feeding larvae; cedar’s oils are not a guaranteed exterminant but act as a preventative layer that lowers pest activity in properly maintained storage.
What is Dutch Lap Siding? Definition, Materials, Benefits, and Installation Guide
Dutch lap siding delivers pronounced aesthetic depth, reliable water-shedding geometry, and flexible material options that can improve thermal performance and resale value when specified correctly. The mechanism behind these benefits is the profile design: the concave face and reveal create a shadow line that enhances perceived detail, while overlapping courses shed water efficiently.
Is Eastern Red Cedar Toxic?
It smells strong. It acts as a natural insect repellent. It even keeps moths out of your sweaters. But is there something “toxic” lurking beneath the surface of this beautiful wood?
How do you install tongue & groove planks on a ceiling?
Whether you’re finishing a farmhouse living room, a cozy cabin, or a country porch, cedar tongue and groove planks can transform an ordinary ceiling into a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
And here’s the good news: with a little patience (and maybe a helper who doesn’t mind looking up for a few hours), installing cedar on a ceiling is easier than you might think.
The Sawmill at Midnight
There’s something special about the kind of night that sneaks up on you.
The kind where you look at your watch and realize it’s nearly midnight — your body’s tired and aching, but your mind’s wide awake. The laughter’s still easy, and the work feels more like privilege than chore.
It’s Not Really a Cedar?! The Surprising Truth About Eastern Red Cedar
Eastern Red Cedar isn’t technically a cedar at all. It’s actually a type of juniper — Juniperus virginiana — one of North America’s most unique and versatile native trees. And depending on where you live, you might know it by a completely different name
🌲 Building With Nature: Why Eastern Red Cedar is the Smart Choice
Homeowners, builders, and DIYers alike want products that look beautiful, last for decades, and are safe for their families and the environment. At Mountain Milling Co., that’s exactly what we provide through our passion for Eastern Red Cedar.