Can I use Pine on a covered porch ceiling?

Yes, but it must be primed and painted on all six sides before installation to prevent moisture damage. Cedar is more forgiving in these applications.

Will Cedar ceiling planks make my room smell like Cedar?

Initially yes — the scent is noticeable for the first several months and then fades to a subtle background aroma. Applying a clear finish reduces the scent.

Should I use tongue-and-groove or shiplap for a ceiling?

Tongue-and-groove is preferred for ceilings because the interlocking joint prevents gaps from opening as the wood moves seasonally.

Ceiling Planks

Cedar vs Pine Ceiling Planks: 2026 Complete Comparison (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated May 31, 2026|Sources & methodology

Wood plank ceilings add warmth and character to any room, and Cedar and Pine are the two most popular choices. Cedar brings rich color and natural aroma, while Pine offers a clean, bright look at a lower price. This comparison covers aesthetics, cost, installation, and long-term performance for both ceiling plank options.

Cedar

Pine

Key Takeaways

Wood plank ceilings add warmth and character to any room, and Cedar and Pine are the two most popular choices.
Cedar brings rich color and natural aroma, while Pine offers a clean, bright look at a lower price.
This comparison covers aesthetics, cost, installation, and long-term performance for both ceiling plank options.
Pine is the smarter choice for most interior ceiling projects — it costs half as much as Cedar and looks great painted or whitewashed.
Cedar is worth the premium for moisture-prone areas like porch ceilings and bathrooms, or when you specifically want the warm cedar color and aroma.

Property	Cedar	Pine
Color	Warm reddish-brown	Light cream to pale yellow
Aroma	Distinctive, pleasant cedar scent	Mild, resinous
Knot Character	Tight, small knots	Larger, more prominent knots
Avg Cost (Sq Ft Installed)	$4–7	$2–4
Moisture Resistance	Excellent — naturally resistant	Low — needs sealing
Weight	Light	Light

Cedar

Pros

Beautiful warm color with natural variation. Pleasant cedar aroma that persists for years. Naturally moisture and insect resistant. Lightweight and easy to install overhead.

Cons

Significantly more expensive than Pine. Color can be overpowering in small rooms. Aroma may bother sensitive individuals. Darkens over time without UV protection.

Pine

Pros

Very affordable per square foot. Bright, clean look that suits many styles. Takes paint and stain well for custom colors. Widely available in tongue-and-groove profiles.

Cons

No natural decay resistance — problematic in damp areas. Knots can bleed through paint over time. Can yellow with age if clear-coated. Less visual character than Cedar.

Best Use Cases

Choose Cedar for covered porches, bathrooms, saunas, or any room where moisture resistance and natural beauty are priorities. Choose Pine for bedrooms, living rooms, and any interior ceiling where budget matters and you plan to paint or whitewash the planks.

Verdict

Pine is the smarter choice for most interior ceiling projects — it costs half as much as Cedar and looks great painted or whitewashed. Cedar is worth the premium for moisture-prone areas like porch ceilings and bathrooms, or when you specifically want the warm cedar color and aroma.