Is larch as durable as cedar for cladding?

Larch is actually harder than cedar (590 vs 350 Janka) and has comparable natural rot resistance. Its higher density makes it more resistant to physical damage from hail, impacts, and woodpeckers.

Does larch cladding need to be treated?

Larch can be left untreated and will naturally age to a beautiful silver-gray. Many modern architects specify untreated larch specifically for this aging aesthetic. Treatment is only needed if you want to maintain the original golden color.

Why is larch popular in modern architecture?

Larch's clean grain, uniform silvering, and lower cost compared to cedar make it popular for contemporary designs. Its European heritage also brings architectural credibility for modern residential and commercial projects.

building materials

Larch vs Cedar Cladding: Exterior Wood Comparison (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated June 1, 2026|Sources & methodology

Larch and cedar are both popular natural wood cladding options, but they offer different balances of hardness, durability, and aesthetics. Larch is gaining popularity in modern architecture for its durability and distinctive aging, while cedar remains the established choice. This comparison helps architects and homeowners choose between them.

Larch

Cedar

Key Takeaways

Larch and cedar are both popular natural wood cladding options, but they offer different balances of hardness, durability, and aesthetics.
Larch is gaining popularity in modern architecture for its durability and distinctive aging, while cedar remains the established choice.
This comparison helps architects and homeowners choose between them.
Larch is an excellent and often more affordable alternative to cedar for exterior cladding, particularly for modern architectural designs that embrace natural silver aging.
Cedar remains the safe choice with the longest track record and easiest installation.

Property	Larch	Cedar
Price/Sq Ft	$4-$8	$6-$12
Janka Hardness	590 lbf	350 lbf
Rot Resistance	Good - natural	Good - natural
Color	Golden to reddish-brown	Warm reddish-brown
Aging Pattern	Grays to silver uniformly	Grays less uniformly
Density	Higher - heavier	Lower - lighter
Maintenance	Optional - ages well naturally	Seal every 3-5 years recommended

Larch

Pros

Harder and more impact resistant, More affordable, Ages beautifully to silver, Popular in contemporary architecture

Cons

Heavier and harder to install, High resin content can bleed, Knots are common, Less established in North American market

Cedar

Pros

Proven generations of cladding use, Lightweight easy installation, Naturally aromatic, Widest supplier network

Cons

Softer and more prone to denting, More expensive, Ages less uniformly, Requires more maintenance to prevent uneven weathering

Best Use Cases

Choose larch for a durable, modern cladding that ages gracefully to silver at a lower price point. Choose cedar for proven performance, easier installation, and a traditional natural wood aesthetic.

Verdict

Larch is an excellent and often more affordable alternative to cedar for exterior cladding, particularly for modern architectural designs that embrace natural silver aging. Cedar remains the safe choice with the longest track record and easiest installation.