Red Cedar (Surian, Kalantas)

What is Red Cedar?

Red cedar trees are different species of cedar trees popular for their unique reddish-brown colour wood. The wood also possesses aromatic qualities. The most popular varieties of cedar are the Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) and the Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana). These particular varieties are native to North America. The western red cedar is most commonly found along the Pacific Coast from California to British Columbia, and the eastern red cedar is found in abundance in the eastern parts of the United States.

History and Background :The wood of the red cedar tree has been a valued material for centuries, especially among the natives of North America. The wood has been used for the construction of canoes, totem poles, and longhouses, exhibiting its importance in traditional cultures. Since the wood is resistant to decay and pest infestations, it is preferred for outdoor use. The natural beauty of red cedar has made it popular in the past centuries, as has modern infrastructure as well.

Common Locations and Harvesting : Western red cedar is mostly obtained from the Pacific Northwest, where it is found in abundance. Eastern Red Cedar is harvested from a range of habitats, like dry, rocky areas and open woodlands.

Characteristics of Red Cedar Timber

Appearance: Red cedar is popular due to its rich and warm tone, which ranges from light amber to deep reddish-brown. You can notice a straight grain pattern on the wood, and sometimes it can exhibit a more irregular or wavy grain. The combination of grainy pattern and rich colour creates a visually appealing product that adds to the aesthetic of any project.

Durability and Resistance: Red cedar is exceptionally durable and resistant to decay, insects, and fungal growth due to its high oil content and dense structure. This natural resilience and durability make it an excellent choice for outdoor construction projects, where the structure can be exposed to natural elements like sunlight and rain. The timber’s innate ability to withstand harsh conditions without deteriorating ensures its long-lasting performance.

Aromatic Properties: The red cedar’s unique aroma is one of its distinctive characteristics. The wood emits a fragrant, earthy aroma that acts as a natural repellent to insects and pests. This quality adds to the sensory experience and makes red cedar the perfect choice in applications like closets and storage spaces, where it helps repel moths and other insects.

Uses and Applications of Red Cedar

Furniture Making and Outdoor Projects: Red cedar is a popular choice for crafting elegant furniture pieces due to its beautiful appearance and workability. It is commonly used in making outdoor furniture, including benches, tables, and chairs, where its natural resistance to the elements ensures durability and longevity.

Decking, Fencing, and Siding: The wood’s resistance to decay and insects makes it ideal for decking, fencing, and siding applications. Red cedar decking is known for its rich colour and stability, while red cedar fences and siding offer both functional benefits and aesthetic appeal, adding a classic, timeless look to homes and landscapes.

Unique Applications:

Boat Building: Red cedar’s lightweight and rot-resistant properties make it a favoured material for constructing boats, particularly in traditional boat-building practices.

Musical Instruments: The wood is used in the manufacture of various musical instruments, including guitars and pianos, due to its excellent acoustic qualities and tonal resonance.

Benefits of Using Red Cedar Timber

Environmental Benefits and Sustainability: Red cedar is an eco-friendly choice due to its sustainable features and the fact that it is often sourced from well-managed forests. Its natural resistance to decay reduces the need for chemical treatments, further minimising its environmental impact. Additionally, red cedar’s long lifespan means fewer resources are needed for replacements and repairs.

Aesthetics and Longevity: The visual appeal of red cedar, with its rich colour and distinctive grain, enhances the aesthetic value of any project. Its durability and resistance to the elements ensure that red cedar products maintain their beauty and functionality over time. Compared to other timbers, red cedar’s combination of beauty, strength, and natural resistance makes it a superior choice for both residential and commercial applications.

Comparison with Other Timbers: When compared to other popular timber options, such as Surian Cedar, red cedar stands out for its superior aromatic properties and better resistance to decay and insects. While Surian Cedar is also known for its durability, red cedar’s aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits give it a distinct advantage.

How to Maintain and Care for Red Cedar Products

Cleaning and Preserving: To maintain the beauty and integrity of red cedar, regular cleaning is essential. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust and dirt, and clean with a mild soap solution if necessary. Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the wood’s natural oils and colour.

Treatments and Finishes: Applying a protective finish or sealant can enhance the durability of red cedar and preserve its colour. For outdoor applications, use a high-quality wood sealant that offers UV protection to prevent fading and weathering. Periodic reapplication of the finish may be necessary to maintain the wood’s appearance and performance.

Protecting from Common Issues

Moisture: Prevent excessive moisture exposure by ensuring proper sealing and ventilation. Regularly check for signs of water damage and address any issues promptly.

UV Damage: Use UV-resistant coatings to protect red cedar from sun damage, which can cause the wood to lose its colour and become brittle over time.

Why Choose Austimber for Your Red Cedar Needs? 

Reliability: Austimer is a family-run business that has been in the building industry in Australia for over five decades. From executive home building to heritage infrastructure, from civil engineering to complex stair design and building, we are a company that has engaged two generations of family members in the business of creating excellent timber products for our clients.

In-house infrastructure: Situated on 10 hectares at Box Hill in Sydney, AusTimber has a large investment in superior machinery and human power. Collectively, we have many years of extensive knowledge within our strong team at AusTimber. Our site includes milling, kiln drying, laminating, joinery, and warehousing facilities. This ensures we have full control over the quality of the finished product, from milling to completion, ready for installation.

Commitment to Sustainability: As enthusiasts for the environment, we take much care in ensuring that our hardwood timbers are selected from sustainable managed forest resources.

Superior Service: We cater to all types of customers and projects, be it large-scale construction work or small-scale projects. We also provide exceptional customer service in terms of offering expert advice and ensuring timely delivery of our products. We strive to make your experience seamless and satisfying, with support and guidance throughout your project.

We are Just a Call Away! 

If you have any questions about our products or services or would like to get a quote from us, just contact us right away. Our team will be happy to assist you with your next project.

A few of our happy customers