Eastern Vs Western Red Cedar Differences (Woodworking Insights)

Eastern vs. Western Red Cedar: A Woodworking Deep Dive

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the shop and the woods, I’ve developed a real appreciation for the unique qualities of different wood species. Eastern and Western Red Cedar are two of my favorites, each offering distinct advantages for various woodworking projects.

Defining Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

Eastern Red Cedar, despite its name, isn’t actually a true cedar. It’s a juniper, specifically Juniperus virginiana. I often find it growing in fields and along fence lines here in the eastern US. It’s a relatively small tree, rarely exceeding 50 feet in height and 2-3 feet in diameter.

Appearance: The heartwood is a beautiful, vibrant red-purple, while the sapwood is a creamy white. This stark contrast makes it visually striking.
Scent: It has a strong, aromatic scent that’s both pleasant and effective at repelling moths. I remember my grandmother using it in her closets for years!
Workability: It’s generally easy to work with, though knots can be common and can sometimes cause issues during cutting or planing.
Durability: Highly durable and resistant to rot and insect damage, making it ideal for outdoor projects.
Common Uses: Closet linings, fence posts, chests, birdhouses, and small woodworking projects.

Defining Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)

Western Red Cedar, on the other hand, is a true cedar, scientifically known as Thuja plicata. I’ve seen these giants on trips to the Pacific Northwest – they’re truly majestic! These trees can grow to impressive sizes, reaching heights of over 200 feet and diameters of 10 feet or more.

Appearance: The heartwood is a reddish-brown, generally lighter and more uniform in color than Eastern Red Cedar. The sapwood is a pale yellow.
Scent: It has a distinct, sweet, and somewhat spicy aroma.
Workability: Exceptionally easy to work with. It’s soft, straight-grained, and takes nails and screws well.
Durability: Highly durable and resistant to rot and insect damage, even more so than Eastern Red Cedar in some cases.
Common Uses: Siding, shingles, decking, outdoor furniture, saunas, and musical instruments.

Key Differences: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Let’s break down the key differences between these two species in more detail.

Color and Grain

Eastern Red Cedar: As I mentioned, the heartwood is a vibrant red-purple. The grain can be quite variable, with knots and swirls adding character.
Western Red Cedar: The heartwood is a more subdued reddish-brown, and the grain is typically straight and consistent. This makes it ideal for projects where a uniform appearance is desired.

Density and Hardness

Eastern Red Cedar: Denser and harder than Western Red Cedar. According to the Janka hardness scale, it has a rating of around 900 lbf (4,000 N).
Western Red Cedar: Softer and less dense, with a Janka hardness rating of around 350 lbf (1,560 N). This makes it easier to work with hand tools but also more susceptible to dents and scratches.

Workability

Eastern Red Cedar: Can be a bit more challenging to work with due to its density and the presence of knots. I often find myself needing sharper tools and a bit more patience when working with it.
Western Red Cedar: A joy to work with! It cuts cleanly, planes smoothly, and accepts fasteners easily. It’s a great choice for beginners or anyone looking for a hassle-free woodworking experience.

Durability

Eastern Red Cedar: Highly durable and naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insect attack. Its natural oils act as a preservative.
Western Red Cedar: Also extremely durable, thanks to the presence of thujaplicins, natural compounds that inhibit fungal growth and insect infestation. Many believe it is slightly more resistant to decay than Eastern Red Cedar, especially in consistently wet environments.

Scent

Eastern Red Cedar: A strong, pungent, and aromatic scent. This scent is due to the presence of cedrol, a natural compound that repels moths and other insects. I’ve used shavings from this wood in sachets to keep moths away from my woolens.
Western Red Cedar: A milder, sweeter, and slightly spicy aroma. While it also has insect-repelling properties, the scent is less intense than that of Eastern Red Cedar.

Cost and Availability

Eastern Red Cedar: Generally less expensive and more readily available in the eastern United States. However, due to its smaller size, it’s often sold in smaller dimensions.
Western Red Cedar: Can be more expensive, especially outside the Pacific Northwest, due to transportation costs. However, it’s often available in larger dimensions, making it suitable for larger projects.

Suitability for Different Projects

Now, let’s consider which type of cedar is best suited for different woodworking projects.

Outdoor Projects

Both Eastern and Western Red Cedar are excellent choices for outdoor projects due to their natural durability.

Western Red Cedar: My go-to for decking, siding, and outdoor furniture. Its dimensional stability and resistance to warping make it ideal for these applications.
Eastern Red Cedar: I often use it for fence posts, raised garden beds, and smaller outdoor structures where its rot resistance is a major advantage.

Indoor Projects

The choice between Eastern and Western Red Cedar for indoor projects often comes down to aesthetics and the desired scent.

Eastern Red Cedar: Perfect for closet linings and chests. Its strong scent repels moths and other insects, protecting clothing and valuables. The vibrant color also adds a touch of rustic charm.
Western Red Cedar: A great choice for saunas, paneling, and trim work. Its milder scent is less overpowering, and its consistent color creates a more refined look.

Small Woodworking Projects

For smaller projects, both types of cedar can be used, but their unique characteristics make them suitable for different purposes.

Eastern Red Cedar: I love using it for birdhouses and small boxes. Its natural durability ensures that these projects will last for years, and its reddish hue adds visual interest.
Western Red Cedar: Ideal for carving and intricate woodworking projects due to its softness and ease of workability.

Working with Eastern Red Cedar: Tips and Techniques

Having worked with Eastern Red Cedar extensively, I’ve learned a few tricks to make the process smoother.

Sharp Tools are Key: Because Eastern Red Cedar is denser than its western counterpart, sharp tools are essential for clean cuts and smooth surfaces. I always make sure my chisels and plane irons are honed to a razor edge before starting a project.
Watch Out for Knots: Knots are common in Eastern Red Cedar and can be challenging to work around. I often use a coping saw or a small hand saw to carefully remove knots before continuing with the project.
Pre-Drill for Screws: To prevent splitting, always pre-drill pilot holes before driving screws into Eastern Red Cedar.
Dust Collection is a Must: The dust from Eastern Red Cedar can be irritating to some people. I always wear a dust mask and use a dust collector to minimize exposure.

Working with Western Red Cedar: Best Practices

Western Red Cedar is generally easier to work with, but there are still a few things to keep in mind.

Handle with Care: Western Red Cedar is relatively soft and can dent easily. I always handle it carefully to avoid damaging the surface.
Use Sharp Blades: While it’s soft, using sharp blades will still give you the cleanest cuts and prevent tearout.
Consider Grain Direction: Pay attention to the grain direction when planing or routing Western Red Cedar to avoid tearout. I usually take light passes and work with the grain whenever possible.
Avoid Over-Tightening Screws: Because it’s softer, Western Red Cedar is more prone to stripping when screws are over-tightened. I use a light touch and avoid using power tools to drive screws whenever possible.

Finishing Considerations

Both Eastern and Western Red Cedar can be finished in a variety of ways, but it’s important to choose a finish that complements the wood’s natural properties.

Clear Finishes: Clear finishes, such as varnish or lacquer, will enhance the natural beauty of both types of cedar. I often use a clear finish on Eastern Red Cedar to highlight its vibrant color and on Western Red Cedar to showcase its straight grain.
Stains: Stains can be used to alter the color of cedar, but it’s important to choose a stain that’s compatible with the wood’s natural oils. I recommend testing the stain on a scrap piece of wood before applying it to the entire project.
Exterior Finishes: For outdoor projects, it’s essential to use a finish that provides protection from the elements. I often use a penetrating oil finish or a spar varnish to protect cedar from moisture and UV damage.
Let it Breathe: Both types of cedar benefit from finishes that allow the wood to breathe, especially for outdoor applications. Avoid film-forming finishes that can trap moisture and lead to rot.

Sustainability and Sourcing

When choosing between Eastern and Western Red Cedar, it’s important to consider the sustainability of the wood source.

Eastern Red Cedar: Often harvested from sustainably managed forests or even reclaimed from old barns and fences. I always try to source my Eastern Red Cedar from local suppliers who practice responsible forestry.
Western Red Cedar: Can be sourced from old-growth forests, but it’s increasingly available from sustainably managed second-growth forests. Look for wood that’s certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to ensure that it comes from a responsibly managed source.
Consider Reclaimed Wood: Reclaimed cedar is a great option for both Eastern and Western Red Cedar. It’s environmentally friendly and often has a unique character that adds to the beauty of the finished project.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over the years, I’ve seen my fair share of mistakes when working with cedar. Here are a few to watch out for:

Using Dull Tools: As I’ve emphasized, sharp tools are essential for working with both types of cedar. Dull tools can lead to tearout, splintering, and uneven cuts.
Ignoring Grain Direction: Failing to pay attention to grain direction can result in tearout and uneven surfaces, especially when planing or routing.
Over-Sanding: Over-sanding can close the pores of the wood and prevent finishes from penetrating properly. I recommend sanding to a maximum of 220 grit for most projects.
Using the Wrong Fasteners: Using the wrong type of fasteners can lead to corrosion and staining, especially in outdoor projects. I always use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners when working with cedar.
Neglecting Proper Ventilation: When applying finishes, it’s important to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.

Safety Precautions

Working with wood can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Wear Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Use a Dust Mask: Cedar dust can be irritating to the lungs. I always wear a dust mask or respirator when sanding or machining cedar.
Protect Your Hearing: Prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage your hearing. I wear earplugs or earmuffs when using power tools.
Use Proper Lifting Techniques: Lifting heavy pieces of wood can strain your back. I always use proper lifting techniques and get help when needed.
Keep Your Work Area Clean: A cluttered work area can be a tripping hazard. I always keep my work area clean and organized.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications

Let’s look at a few real-world examples of how Eastern and Western Red Cedar can be used in woodworking projects.

Case Study 1: Eastern Red Cedar Closet Lining

I recently lined a closet with Eastern Red Cedar for a client who was struggling with moth infestations. I used tongue-and-groove boards to create a tight seal and maximize the moth-repelling effect. The client was thrilled with the results, and the closet now smells amazing!

Project Details:

Wood: Eastern Red Cedar, tongue-and-groove boards
Dimensions: Closet dimensions: 8′ wide x 6′ deep x 8′ high
Fasteners: Brad nails
Finish: None (to preserve the natural scent)
Time: 2 days

Case Study 2: Western Red Cedar Deck

I built a deck using Western Red Cedar for a homeowner who wanted a durable and attractive outdoor space. I used stainless steel screws to fasten the decking boards to the frame and applied a penetrating oil finish to protect the wood from the elements. The deck has held up beautifully for years and still looks great.

Project Details:

Wood: Western Red Cedar, 5/4″ x 6″ decking boards
Dimensions: Deck dimensions: 12′ wide x 16′ deep
Fasteners: Stainless steel deck screws
Finish: Penetrating oil finish
Time: 4 days

Alternative Wood Choices

While Eastern and Western Red Cedar are excellent choices for many projects, there are other wood species that can be used as alternatives.

Cypress: Naturally rot-resistant and durable, making it a good choice for outdoor projects.
White Oak: Strong, durable, and resistant to rot, but more expensive than cedar.
Pressure-Treated Lumber: A cost-effective option for outdoor projects, but it’s not as aesthetically pleasing as cedar and requires special handling due to the chemicals used in the treatment process.

Maintenance and Care

To ensure that your cedar projects last for years to come, it’s important to provide proper maintenance and care.

Regular Cleaning: Clean cedar surfaces regularly with a mild soap and water solution to remove dirt and grime.
Re-Finishing: Re-apply finishes as needed to protect the wood from the elements. I recommend re-finishing outdoor projects every 1-2 years.
Insect Control: Inspect cedar projects regularly for signs of insect infestation and take appropriate measures to control pests.
Moisture Control: Ensure that cedar projects are properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup and rot.

The Future of Cedar in Woodworking

As sustainable forestry practices become more widespread, I believe that cedar will continue to be a popular choice for woodworking projects. Its natural durability, beauty, and workability make it an ideal material for both indoor and outdoor applications. I’m excited to see how new technologies and techniques will further enhance the use of cedar in the years to come.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Eastern and Western Red Cedar ultimately depends on the specific requirements of your project. Eastern Red Cedar offers a vibrant color and a strong scent, while Western Red Cedar is prized for its ease of workability and consistent grain. By understanding the unique properties of each species, you can make an informed decision and create beautiful, long-lasting woodworking projects.

Actionable Steps

Identify Your Project: Determine the specific requirements of your project, including the desired appearance, durability, and scent.
Compare Wood Properties: Review the key differences between Eastern and Western Red Cedar to determine which species is best suited for your project.
Source Your Wood: Choose a reputable supplier who offers sustainably harvested cedar.
Prepare Your Workspace: Gather the necessary tools and materials and set up a clean, well-ventilated workspace.
Follow Safety Precautions: Wear safety glasses, a dust mask, and hearing protection to protect yourself from injury.
Start Building: Use sharp tools and proper techniques to work with cedar.
Finish Your Project: Apply a finish that complements the wood’s natural properties and provides protection from the elements.
Maintain Your Project: Clean and re-finish your cedar projects regularly to ensure that they last for years to come.

By following these steps, you can successfully incorporate Eastern or Western Red Cedar into your woodworking projects and enjoy the beauty and durability of this remarkable wood.