Eastern Red Cedar
Juniperus virginiana • Eastern United States
Domestic Softwood
$
Eastern Red Cedar is a highly aromatic softwood prized for its natural insect-repelling properties and decay resistance. Popular for closet linings, chests, and outdoor applications.
Janka Hardness
900
Density
33 lbs/ft³
Moisture
10-12%
Fire Rating
Class B
Durability
Class A - 20-25 years
Price Range
$
Appearance
Reddish-brown heartwood with cream sapwood
Key Characteristics
- •Distinctive cedar aroma
- •Natural insect repellent
- •Excellent decay resistance
- •Knotty appearance
- •Striking color contrast
- •Easy to work with
Common Applications
- •Closet linings
- •Cedar chests
- •Outdoor furniture
- •Fence posts
- •Pencils
- •Decorative applications
Maintenance Requirements
Low maintenance. Natural oils provide protection. Can weather to gray or maintain color with occasional treatment.
Advantages
- Natural moth and insect repellent
- Excellent rot resistance
- Pleasant, distinctive aroma
- No treatment needed for decay
- Affordable softwood
- Beautiful color contrast
Considerations
- Not suitable for structural use
- Many knots and defects
- Can be brittle
- Narrow boards (small tree diameter)
- Color fades over time
- Oil can stain fabrics