Is Cedar Hardwood? Is Cedar A Light Or Heavy Wood?
Is Cedar Hardwood?
No. Cedar is a softwood, not a hardwood. Although it carries an iconic beauty and spicy aroma, it belongs to a group of plants known as gymnosperms, including conifers like pine or fir trees.
It is highly valued for its versatility and has been used since ancient times for many applications such as construction, furniture-making, and even aromatherapy.
Thus, cedar is easily one of the most popular choices of seasoned craftsmen and amateur DIY enthusiasts!
Is Cedar A Light Or Heavy Wood?
Cedar is one of the lightest woods, weighing only 19.7 to 23 pounds per square foot (dry). Despite being lightweight, it is a softwood that is incredibly versatile and is used for a variety of purposes such as building materials and construction.
Even lighter than Cedar is Cypress and Redwood, which are also softwoods that have added durability and resistance to water damage.
Thus, when deciding on wood for any purpose, Cedar should always be considered due to its light weight combined with its strength and versatility.
How Strong Is Cedarwood?
Cedarwood is a very strong wood, with Aromatic Red Cedar having a compressive strength of 6,000 and a hardness of 900.
This is much higher compared to Chestnut wood (which is also Hardwood) which has a compressive strength of 5,300 and a hardness of 540.
Even Walnut wood does not compare as it only has a compressive strength of 7,500 and a hardness of 1,010. Thus, Cedarwood stands out as an exceptionally strong wood.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Cedar Wood?
Cedar wood might have many benefits, but it also has some disadvantages. Being a softer wood, cedar decking is more prone to scratch or dent marks from furniture, pet claws or heavy objects placed on it.
It is also more susceptible to rot and decay if not properly sealed or treated with a preservative. The grain can be difficult to paint and the texture of the wood lessens over time when left outside.
Additionally, due to its high cost, cedar may not be within everyone’s budget and may require regular upkeep in order to maintain its look and condition.
What Is Cedar Best For?
Cedar is best known for its beautiful aesthetic and qualities like being highly durable and resistant to rot, making it ideal for outdoor construction projects. It can be used for a variety of applications such as fencing, decking, siding, and trim to add character to any design.
Cedar also has natural properties that make it insect-resistant and can withstand extreme weather conditions without warping or cracking.
Due to its versatile nature, cedar can be used in almost any form—from a rustic look with stained panels or planks for fencing to a modern or classic look with painted trim on a building’s exterior.
Not only is cedar well-suited for practical purposes but it also adds an attractive element to any project with its unique grain patterns, natural colors, and warm feel.
What Does The Bible Say About Cedar Wood?
The Bible speaks highly of cedar wood, describing it as strong and durable (Isaiah 9:10), graceful and beautiful (Psalm 80:10, Ezekiel 17:23), high and tall (Amos 2:9, Ezekiel 17:22), fragrant (Song of Songs 4:11) and spreading wide (Psalm 80:10-11).
It is a symbol of strength, gracefulness, and beauty in God’s eyes. Cedarwood has been used throughout history for various building materials as it is a very strong material that lasts for centuries without rotting or decaying.
Its use in temples and other ceremonial places also emphasizes its importance to the people of God.
Is Cedar An Expensive Wood?
Yes. Cedar is a more expensive wood than other comparable woods like pine. On average, regular-grade 1×6 tongue-and-groove cedar paneling will cost around 30% more than the same type of paneling made with pine.
The most common commercially available cedar is western red cedar, and it can be widely found in many lumber stores.
