At J F Timber, we are proud to offer a premium selection of cladding species, and Canadian Western Red Cedar stands out as a true gem among them. This versatile and beautiful timber has long been a favourite for both residential and commercial projects, offering an unmatched combination of aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. In this blog post, we delve into the key attributes of Canadian Western Red Cedar, including its appearance, durability, treatments, uses, and grading rules, while also highlighting the products we stock.
Table of Contents
Appearance
Canadian Western Red Cedar is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The timber boasts a rich palette of warm colours, ranging from light amber to deep honey brown, often accompanied by reddish hues. Its fine, straight grain and uniform texture make it an excellent choice for achieving a sophisticated, polished look. The natural variations in colour and grain pattern add character and visual interest to any structure, ensuring that each installation is unique.
Durability
One of the most impressive qualities of Canadian Western Red Cedar is its exceptional durability. Naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage, this species is well-suited for exterior applications. Its high content of natural oils and preservatives helps protect it from the elements, making it a long-lasting and reliable option for cladding. Properly maintained, Western Red Cedar can withstand the test of time, providing years of service and beauty. It is considered to have a Class 2 Durability rating.
Treatments
While Canadian Western Red Cedar is naturally durable, applying treatments can enhance its performance and longevity. At JF Timber, we recommend a clear coat or stain to enhance the natural colour and grain of the wood whilst providing protection against UV rays and moisture.
Uses
Canadian Western Red Cedar is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Common uses include:
Exterior Cladding: Perfect for homes, providing a warm and inviting exterior.
Interior Cladding: Such as a slat panelled feature wall
Garden Rooms & Outdoor Uses: Ideal for garden rooms, saunas, decking and fences due to its natural resistance to outdoor elements.
Whether for contemporary designs or traditional aesthetics, Canadian Western Red Cedar seamlessly integrates into any architectural style.
Grading Rules
To ensure the highest quality, Canadian Western Red Cedar is subject to rigorous grading rules. There are two grades of Canadian Western Red Cedar typically available in the UK.
- 1. No 2 Clear and Better Only
- 2. No 2 Clear and Better 85-15 (Allowing 15% max of No 4)
No 2 Clear and Better allows for
- - Knots up to ½” on the face
- - Knots up to ¾” on the reverse
- - Three irregularities on the face side per 12ft
- - 15% of the No2 grade is allowed to contain four irregularities on the face and soft knots
No 4
- - Four irregularities on the face side per 12ft length
- - Characteristics on the reverse slightly in excess of those allowed on the face
- - Four knots up to 1” or equivalent e.g. Four 1” or 1 4”
- - Resin pockets, splits, checks, warp, wane and worm holes are permitted to some degree
We recommend No2 Clear & Better Only for those not wishing to do any significant defecting, and for those who are happy to cut around the odd knot we recommend No2 Clear & Better 85-15.
Maintenance
Maintaining your Canadian Western Red Cedar cladding is crucial to preserving its beauty and extending its lifespan. Here are some key maintenance tips to keep your cedar looking its best:
Regular Cleaning: Remove dirt, mildew, and debris by washing the cladding with a mild detergent and water. A soft brush or cloth can be used to avoid damaging the wood surface.
Inspection: Periodically inspect the cladding for any signs of damage or wear. Look for cracks, splits, or areas where the finish might be wearing thin.
Re-Coating: Depending on the exposure and weather conditions, reapply protective coatings every few years. This includes stains, clear coats, or other finishes used to protect the wood from UV rays and moisture. Our best advice is to sand it back and restain for the best results.
Repairing Damage: Address any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration. Small cracks and splits can be filled with wood fillers, and damaged boards should be replaced if necessary.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation around the cladding to allow the wood to breathe and avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and decay.
By following these maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your Canadian Western Red Cedar cladding remains an attractive and durable feature of your property for many years.
Products We Stock
At JF Timber, we stock a comprehensive range of Canadian Western Red Cedar products to cater to various needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Canadian Western Red Cedar is a truly exceptional cladding species, offering a blend of natural beauty, durability, and versatility that is hard to match. At J F Timber, we are committed to providing top-quality cedar products that meet the highest standards of excellence. Whether you're embarking on a new build or a renovation project, consider Canadian Western Red Cedar for a timeless and reliable solution. Explore our range of cedar products and experience the elegance and resilience that this remarkable timber has to offer.
For more information on our Canadian Western Red Cedar products or to discuss your project needs, please visit our website or contact us directly. We look forward to helping you bring your vision to life with the unmatched charm of Canadian Western Red Cedar.