Cedar (Aromatic) Wood Guide 2026
Juniperus virginiana
Typically described as aromatic rot-resistant softwood
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 23 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States
- Common uses include Closets, Chests, Paneling
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Fine, even texture with many small knots.
Workability: Soft and brittle, works easily but prone to chipping.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Usually left unfinished to preserve its natural scent.
Color change: Fades to a greyish brown if exposed to direct sunlight.
Insect resistance: Extremely high natural resistance to moths and insects.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Cedar (Aromatic). Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4/4 | 1" | 13/16" (3/4" common) | Available in narrow strip widths and random widths. | Often sold in short, random lengths for closet lining. | Request this size |
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Available in narrow strip widths and random widths. | Often sold in short, random lengths for closet lining. | Request this size |
- 4/4rough 1"
- Surfaced
- 13/16" (3/4" common)
- Widths
- Available in narrow strip widths and random widths.
- Lengths
- Often sold in short, random lengths for closet lining.
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Available in narrow strip widths and random widths.
- Lengths
- Often sold in short, random lengths for closet lining.
Availability notes: Commonly available in home centers as closet lining.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Reddish to violet-brown; pale sapwood
Grain: Straight; fine texture
Common Uses
- Closets
- Chests
- Paneling
- Moth-repellent lining
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Eastern Redcedar;Aromatic Cedar
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 900 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Very Durable
- Sourced from United States
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Cedar (Aromatic) is unavailable or over budget.
- Alaska Cedar
- Port Orford Cedar560 lbf Janka
Related Species
Alaska Yellow Cedar
Alaska Yellow Cedar is among the most durable softwoods in the world, with natural decay resistance
View speciesAromatic Red Cedar
Aromatic Red Cedar is beloved for its distinctive spicy fragrance and natural moth-repelling propert
View speciesAtlantic White Cedar
Atlantic White Cedar is a lightweight, aromatic softwood native to the swamps and bogs of the Easter
View speciesExplore More on Lumberama
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